India plans curbs on GM alfalfa seed imports
Why in the news
India is weighing curbs on GM alfalfa seed imports even as the US seeks lower duties, reflecting caution on GMOs and a seed self-sufficiency drive.
Reasons and measures
- Fear of GM contamination of local seed; no commercial approval for GM alfalfa.
- Domestic seed sells at ₹500-800/kg; imported GM seed is costlier due to duties.
- Possible steps: test kits to check GM status before unloading, and powers under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
About alfalfa (lucerne)
- Medicago sativa, called Queen of Forages; native to southwestern Asia.
- Protein-rich fodder, hay, silage, green manure; fixes nitrogen via Sinorhizobium meliloti; lives 4-8 years.
GM alfalfa
- Traits: glyphosate tolerance, low lignin; patent held by Monsanto.
- Concerns: cross-contamination, patented seed dependence, herbicide-resistant weeds.
Exam angle
- Only GM crop approved for commercial cultivation: cotton.
- India imports Berseem seed, not alfalfa.