CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -Recently, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) that functions under the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has approved seed production prior to commercial release of genetically modified (GM) mustard.

Detailed explanation-2: -The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) that works under the Union Environment Ministry has approved the proposal for the commercial cultivation of genetically modified (GM) mustard. The proposal will now again put forward for the approval of the Environment Ministry.

Detailed explanation-3: -India approves first genetically-modified crops in 20 years: Herbicide-tolerant cotton and mustard. The commercial cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops may get approval in the country after 20 years. These crops are herbicide-tolerant (HT) Bt cotton, called HTBt cotton, and GM mustard.

Detailed explanation-4: -India first allowed GM cultivation in 2002 with genetically modified cotton. Apart from GM cotton, New Delhi has not approved any other transgenic crop.

Detailed explanation-5: -The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has cleared the proposal for the commercial cultivation of genetically modified (GM) mustard. The recommendation will now go for the approval of the Environment Ministry.