Societies embrace gene therapy but resist genetic change in crops
If regulation is only about safety and curbing, and demanding compliance with an ever-changing process, it will curb enthusiasm for daring ideas and explanations about the complexities and meaning of life. Modest and unambitious approaches in science are a self-defeating oxymoron
360° Perspective Analysis
Deep-dive into Geography, Polity, Economy, History, Environment & Social dimensions — AI-powered, on-demand
Context
The provided text is an excerpt from a larger article discussing the paradox in societal acceptance of genetic modification technologies. While gene therapy for human medical applications is increasingly embraced, there remains significant public resistance to applying similar genetic changes to crops, despite ongoing debates dominated by other emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
UPSC Perspectives
Science and Technology
This article highlights the dichotomy in public perception regarding genetic modification and gene therapy. Gene therapy involves altering the genes inside an individual's cells to treat or stop disease, which is generally viewed positively due to its immediate medical benefits. Conversely, modifying the genome of crops (Genetically Modified Organisms or GMOs) to enhance yield, resistance to pests, or nutritional value often faces public backlash and regulatory hurdles. From a UPSC perspective, it's crucial to understand the underlying science—such as CRISPR-Cas9 technology, which allows precise editing of DNA. Questions in the exam could focus on the differences in regulatory frameworks governing human genetics versus agricultural biotechnology, such as the role of the under the in India, and the ethical arguments supporting and opposing both applications.
Economic
The resistance to genetically modified crops has significant economic implications for India's agricultural sector. Proponents argue that GM crops can increase food security by providing higher yields and reducing losses to pests, which is vital given India's growing population and the pressures of climate change. For instance, is currently the only GM crop widely cultivated in India, having transformed the country into a major cotton exporter. However, concerns over seed monopolies by multinational corporations, potential environmental impacts, and trade restrictions by countries wary of GMOs create economic friction. UPSC candidates should analyze how the lack of consensus on GM food crops (like the delayed approval of ) affects India's agricultural productivity, the income of farmers, and broader macroeconomic stability.
Governance
The societal resistance to GM crops underscores complex governance challenges in balancing scientific advancement with public sentiment and safety concerns. The regulatory process for approving GM crops in India is often criticized for being opaque and slow, leading to a policy paralysis that frustrates scientific innovation. The debate requires effective science communication to bridge the gap between researchers and the public, ensuring that decisions are based on empirical evidence rather than fear. From a governance standpoint, UPSC questions might explore the challenges of policymaking in emerging technologies, the need for robust institutional frameworks to assess biosafety, and how democratic institutions navigate the tension between expert consensus and public opinion. The , an international agreement which India has ratified, is a key piece of the regulatory puzzle that candidates must understand regarding the cross-border movement of GMOs.