Bt Cotton — Current Affairs 2026
Current Affairs Connections
GEAC to Review New Stacked Gene Bt Cotton Events Amidst Pink Bollworm Resurgence
October 2024Following persistent reports of pink bollworm resistance to existing Bollgard-II Bt cotton, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is expected to review proposals for new stacked gene Bt cotton events. These new events incorporate novel Cry proteins (e.g., Vip3A or Cry1F) or combinations designed to overcome the evolved resistance. This development is crucial as it signifies India's ongoing effort to maintain the efficacy of Bt technology and address the challenges of pest evolution. From a UPSC perspective, this highlights the dynamic nature of agricultural biotechnology and the continuous need for research and regulatory adaptation.
UPSC Angle: Focus on the regulatory process for new GM crop approvals, the science behind stacked gene technology, and the economic implications of pest resistance for cotton farmers. Connects to agricultural biotechnology overview [VY:SCI-07-03] and food security and crop productivity [VY:AGR-02-01].
Debate Intensifies on Herbicide-Tolerant Bt Cotton: Farmers' Demand vs. Environmental Concerns
March 2025The debate surrounding the commercial approval of Herbicide-Tolerant (HT) Bt cotton, particularly the 'Roundup Ready Flex' (RRF) variant, has intensified. While a section of farmers and industry advocates for its approval, citing potential benefits in weed management and labor cost reduction, environmental groups and some agricultural economists raise concerns about increased herbicide use, the emergence of 'superweeds,' and potential health impacts. The GEAC continues to deliberate, balancing agricultural productivity needs with environmental impact assessment [VY:ENV-04-02-01] and biosafety considerations. This ongoing policy discussion is a critical current affair for UPSC aspirants.
UPSC Angle: Examine the pros and cons of herbicide-tolerant crops, the regulatory hurdles for GM crops in India, and the socio-economic and environmental implications. This is a classic case study for Mains questions on science and technology policy, sustainable agriculture, and environmental ethics.