Topic: 2024-GMOs and Food Security
Country: India
Delegate Name: Xinyu Wang
Committee: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
Topic: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and Food Security
Country: Republic of India
Delegate: Xinyu Wang, City High Middle School
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) represent a transformative advancement in agricultural science, designed to enhance crop yields, resistance to pests, and resilience to extreme climate conditions. For a country like India, where agriculture forms a significant part of the economy and sustains a large portion of the population, GMOs could potentially contribute to improving food security and self-sufficiency.
In India, agriculture provides livelihoods for nearly 60% of the population and contributes approximately 17-18% of the country’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product ). Despite this, challenges such as climate change, pest invasions, and fluctuating market demands put pressure on India’s food production capabilities. The introduction of GM crops, like Bt cotton, has shown promise in addressing some of these issues, with increased yields and reduced pesticide usage. Yet, concerns over ecological impacts, potential health risks, and economic implications for small-scale farmers continue to spark resistance against the widespread adoption of GMOs.
The primary concerns surrounding GMOs in India include biosafety risks, environmental effects such as potential loss of biodiversity, and the risk of corporate control over seed supplies, which may disadvantage local farmers. Additionally, public distrust in GMOs is high due to perceived health risks and lack of transparent regulatory processes. Moreover, there are limited public sector resources for conducting comprehensive GMO research, leaving the field heavily reliant on private companies whose interests may not always align with national or public goals.
As a developing nation with a large population dependent on agriculture, India believes that GMOs can be part of the solution for food security, provided that safety and ethical concerns are adequately addressed. India advocates for stringent biosafety protocols, research, and extensive risk assessments before introducing any new GM crop to its fields. The Indian government aims to ensure that GMOs are accessible and beneficial to small and marginal farmers, while also protecting environmental and human health.
India recommends that the FAO establish an internationally recognized definition of GMOs, which will facilitate standardized regulatory frameworks. India also urges member states to adopt a rigorous, science-based regulatory system for the approval and monitoring of GMOs.
India calls on all nations to prioritize local ecosystem preservation. GMOs should be carefully evaluated for potential environmental impacts, especially in biodiversity-rich regions.
India advocates for increased support to developing nations in building research capacity. By investing in local, government-led research, countries can conduct unbiased assessments of GMOs, ensuring that safety and effectiveness align with national interests.
India encourages a balanced approach to intellectual property rights, ensuring that smallholder farmers are not marginalized. India suggests the establishment of subsidies or financial assistance for resource-poor farmers wishing to adopt GM technologies.
India emphasizes the need for educating the public on the benefits and risks of GMOs. Awareness campaigns should focus on dispelling myths, highlighting scientific findings, and promoting an informed choice for consumers.
India advocates for stronger international cooperation and information sharing regarding GMOs. This includes transparent data on long-term health and environmental impacts and best practices in GMO cultivation and regulation.
India reaffirms its commitment to achieving food security and agricultural resilience, while upholding the principles of environmental sustainability and public health. India looks forward to working collaboratively with the FAO and other member states to develop a balanced approach to GMO adoption that respects local ecosystems, promotes equitable access, and ensures the well-being of all citizens.
sources
1. Government of India. “Agriculture Census 2021.” Ministry of Agriculture.
2. Food and Agriculture Organization. “The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2022.”
3. World Health Organization. “Frequently Asked Questions on Genetically Modified Foods.”
