Genetically Modified (GM) crops are plants whose genes have been altered by manipulation using recombinant DNA technology. They offer several advantages but also have some disadvantages.

Advantages of GM Crops:

GM crops have been highly beneficial in increasing crop yields and reducing post-harvest losses. They have made crops more tolerant to abiotic stresses such as cold, drought, salt, and heat. GM technology has created pest-resistant crops (like Bt cotton, Bt corn) which produce Bt toxin to provide resistance against insects, thereby reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. This decreases the harmful effects of chemicals on the environment.

GM crops have increased efficiency of mineral usage by plants, which prevents early exhaustion of soil fertility. They have also enhanced the nutritional value of food, for example, Golden Rice which is enriched with Vitamin A. Additionally, GM has created tailor-made plants that supply alternative resources to industries in the form of starches, fuels, and pharmaceuticals.

Disadvantages/Concerns of GM Crops:

Genetic modification of organisms can have unpredictable results when such organisms are introduced into the ecosystem. There are ethical issues regarding the manipulation of living organisms, requiring regulation to evaluate the morality of human activities that might help or harm living organisms.

There are also patent-related problems regarding the modification and usage of living organisms for public services. To address these concerns, the Indian Government has set up organisations like GEAC (Genetic Engineering Approval Committee) to make decisions regarding the validity of GM research and the safety of introducing GM organisms for public services.