Advocacy for GM Mustard
In a twist of agricultural innovation, the Indian government, like a seasoned chef, stirs the pot once more in favour of genetically modified (GM) mustard. The Supreme Court recently hosted this culinary debate, where the government passionately argued that cultivating GM mustard is the recipe for a self-reliant India.
A Golden Spoon of Quality Edible Oil
The government insists that GM mustard holds the potential to serve up a feast of affordable and high-quality edible oil for everyone. It envisions reducing the reliance on edible oil imports. This transforms India into a kitchen that cooks with its homegrown ingredients.
Spilling the Mustard
Mustard oil, the crown jewel of Indian kitchens, has a rich history rooted in GM seeds. The government shared how oil extracted from GM seeds has seasoned Indian cuisine for decades. Now, it aspires to cultivate GM mustard within the country’s borders, enhancing production.
The Cry for Self-Sufficiency In India
The government highlights that India’s demand for edible oil is escalating with its population. The current scenario reveals a shortfall, with only 54% of the required 13.4 million tonnes produced in 2021-22. This shortfall is patched up with expensive imports.
The Price of Foreign Ingredients
In a financial critique, the government discloses that in 2021-22, a sufficient amount was spent on foreign exchange for edible oil imports. Palm oil dominated the plate at 57%, followed by soybean oil at 22% and sunflower oil at 15%. Even yellow mustard oil, known as canola oil abroad, entered the mix. A staggering 55.76% of the total demand in 2022-23 was met through imports.
Heralded as a transformative force, GM mustard pledges a 28% boost in mustard oil production. However, this promise is accompanied by a stirring debate: if GM seeds yield bumper crops, why the opposition?
The Unsettling Aftertaste Of GM Seeds
The crux of opposition lies in the farmer’s independence. Like a skilled gardener saving seeds for the next harvest, traditional farming allows farmers to preserve a part of their crop. GM seeds, however, introduce a different tune, forcing farmers into an annual seed-buying ritual. This potential loss of autonomy and concerns about unforeseen diseases and pests cast a shadow over the seemingly bright future of GM mustard.
Conclusion
As the debate simmers, the government’s push for GM mustard reflects its commitment to reshaping India’s edible oil. The aroma of self-sufficiency mingles with concerns about dependence and painting progress.
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