Topic: Technology missions;
4. A detailed long-term assessment of the potential social and economic benefits of using genetically engineered (GE) mustard, vis-à-vis its potential drawbacks is necessary before a full-fledged launch. Critically analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Why the question:
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recommended the “environmental release” of the transgenic hybrid mustard DMH-11 for seed production and conduct of field demonstration studies with respect to its effects, if any, on honey bees and other pollinating insects.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the impact of clearance granted for the cultivation of GM-Mustard.
Directive word:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.
Body:
First, in brief, write about the needed for GM crops in the country to meet the challenges of food security and make farming commercially viable and tackle challenges posed by climate change.
Next, write about the positive aspect of the lifting the ban on G-Mustard and its impact on the farmers as well as scientific community in the country.
Next, write about the concerns associated with the above.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
