Assessing The Legal Framework For Genetically Engineered Plants In India: Challenges To Environmental Sustainability
- IJLLR Journal
- Apr 15
- 1 min read
Tom Moncy, Christ Deemed to be University Delhi-NCR
ABSTRACT
Genetically engineered or GE plants were introduced as a means to enhance productivity in agriculture, but there are immense environmental challenges, especially in India. Though economic benefits from the introduction of Bt cotton are evident, great concern has been raised for the negative impact of GE crops on the environment. This paper critically analyses the legal framework of GE plants in India, specifically looking at the Environmental Protection Act of 1986 and the role of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee in overseeing Genetically Engineered plants. From a review of current legislation, regulatory loopholes, and environmental impact, this research argues that India's legal approach has not ensured adequate protection to support environmental sustainability. The key challenges are the lack of adequate long-term ecological monitoring, minimal enforcement of standards in biosafety, and less effective stakeholder participation in these practices that prevent sustainability in agriculture. By comparing India’s approach to international standards, the paper argues in favour of need for regulatory reforms concerning the issues of ecological resilience and public participation in deciding issues on sustainable agricultural policies. Such alignment in these areas of India's agricultural innovation would be crucial to ensure the positive contributions from GE plants both towards food security and conservation.
