The demand for maize in India is growing rapidly due to its versatile use in food, animal feed, industry, and now as biofuel. This demand has sparked debate over whether genetically modified (GM) maize can truly meet these needs, or is it just an alluring promise, much like the one made with BT cotton—a harsh reality we can no longer overlook? Advocates of GM maize argue that these GM Varieties are designed in the way to yield higher outputs, resist some harmful pests and reduce the use of chemical pesticides, which can potentially lead to greater production and higher incomes for farmers. However, some scientists, environmentalists, and farmers are sceptical of these claims due to insufficient evidence.
A report published in the Pesticide Atlas 2022 by the Heinrich Böll Foundation on October 18, 2022, authored by Martha Martens, highlights that while genetically modified crops were intended to reduce the use of agricultural chemicals and increase crop yields, these promises have largely gone unfulfilled. The article further states that, in 2018, farmers in India spent 37% more per hectare on insecticides than before the introduction of genetically modified cotton in 2002. Additionally, the costs of seeds and fertilizers have increased.
More than a decade ago, twenty civil society organizations from India, South Africa and around the world stated in their declaration, “A Global Citizens Report on the State of GMOs,” that genetic engineering has failed to significantly increase food crop yields but has greatly increased herbicide use and the growth of resistant weeds. As MNC companies gain control over the seed market and push up prices, farmers are often forced into debt. This high level of indebtedness among farmers is thought to contribute to the hundreds of thousands of farmer suicides in India in recent years. (Source: https://eu.boell.org/en/PesticideAtlas-genetic-engineering). Environmentalists, scientists, health advocates, and farmer organizations are voicing serious concerns about the effects of genetically modified (GM) crops on biodiversity, human health, and the livelihoods of small farmers.
According to a report published in Down to Earth magazine on August 25, 2024, farmer leaders from 18 Indian states, along with members of civil societies advocating for farmers’ rights, have written a letter to the Union Minister for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, demanding a national policy on GM crops. They argue that these crops are unnecessary and unsafe for Indian agriculture. The farmers stress the need for a precautionary approach to biosecurity and voice concerns over corporate control of seeds. The resolution points to the failure of BT cotton and the adverse effects of GM technology on human health and the environment. Farmers are calling for comprehensive consultations with stakeholders to ensure accountability and protect agricultural biodiversity (Source: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/agriculture/gm-crops-undesirable-for-india-say-farmer-leaders-demand-comprehensive-discussion-in-national-policy).
Agriculture is the backbone of our nation, with nearly 75% of the population relying on it. In our mission to support farmers and achieve the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat, there are several crucial concerns we need to consider. Many small farmers may find GM seeds and their required inputs unaffordable, which could widen economic disparities in farming communities. Corporate control over seeds also raises questions about the future of agricultural biodiversity. Additionally, there are environmental risks, as an over-reliance on a limited variety of GM seeds may reduce genetic diversity, leaving crops more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Over time, pests could develop resistance to GM crops, reviving the very challenges these seeds were meant to solve. Moreover, as various media have pointed out, India’s maize production issues go beyond seed availability. Challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited market access, and insufficient farmer training significantly hinder productivity. GM maize alone cannot address these deep-rooted, systemic issues.
Achieving Self-Sufficiency in Maize: India’s Path Without GM Crops
India has significant potential to achieve self-reliance in maize production by strengthening sustainable agricultural practices and investing in research, rather than depending on genetically modified (GM) seeds, which may pose risks to our ecosystem. Empowering farmers with improved techniques such as crop rotation, intercropping, organic farming, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) can promote soil health, manage pests, and stabilize yields effectively.
Increased investment in agricultural research and development can lead to more climate-resilient maize varieties that are better suited to Indian conditions, offering a robust alternative to GM crops. At the same time, encouraging production of single cross maize varieties, enhancing infrastructure—such as cold storage, transport networks, and reliable irrigation—will minimize crop wastage and enable farmers to access markets with greater ease, securing better prices for their produce.
Government support, including policy reforms, financial assistance, crop insurance, and subsidies for organic inputs, can incentivize the adoption of sustainable practices. Monitoring bodies at local levels would ensure the efficient implementation of these policies, guaranteeing that resources reach all farmers. By focusing on these integrated efforts, India can increase maize production sustainably, ensuring a prosperous future for farmers and protecting the country’s agricultural biodiversity, while moving toward self-sufficiency in a way that aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
