The new hybrid variant of mustard

• There is huge optimism around DMH-11, or Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11, an indigenous variety developed using genetic engineering.
• The GEAC recently cleared the variety for environmental release.

DMH-11

• Employs genes from soil bacterium that makes mustard amenable to being crossed with other varieties and producing hybrid varieties.
• Will produce more oil.

Issues

• Despite decades-long trials, mustard hybrids have not made it to Indian farmers.
• Reason: activists opposed to genetic modification and believe them to be dangerous.
• The Barnase-barstar system
• Promising but already outdated as CRISPR is in vogue.
• Earlier protests:
• 2017 - GEAC cleared the plant and then did a backtrack by introducing additional tests after protests.
• 2009 - Cleared Bt Brinjal only to be overruled by govt after protests.

Conclusion

• To signal transformation, the Government must second the approval by GEAC and restore the system, whereby scientific consent determines the availability of products to farmers and consumers.

Prelims Takeaway

• GEAC
• GM Crops