What stands in the way of the widespread and careful adoption of 'Genetic Modification (GM)' technology is an `Intellectual Property Rights' regime that seeks to create private monopolies for such technologies. If GM technology is largely corporate driven, it seeks to maximize profits and that too in the short run. That is why corporations make major investments for herbicide-tolerant and pest-resistant crops. Such properties have only a short window, as soon enough, pests and weeds will evolve to overcome such resistance. This suits the corporations. The National Farmers Commission pointed out that priority must be given in genetic modification to the incorporation of genes that can help impart resistance to drought, salinity and other stresses.

Correct Option

Both statements 1 and 2 are valid implications of the passage.

Statement 1: The passage highlights that the National Farmers Commission prioritizes genetic modification for incorporating resistance to drought, salinity, and other stresses. This emphasis indicates that these environmental factors pose significant threats to agricultural productivity. If GM technology, due to corporate interests, is not adequately directed towards addressing these critical stresses, it implies a potential for reduced food production and, consequently, a risk of food insecurity.

Statement 2: The passage identifies drought, salinity, and other stresses as critical challenges requiring genetic modification for agricultural resilience. The acknowledgment of these widespread environmental stressors, which can severely impact farming and livelihoods, suggests a broader need for robust mechanisms to manage and mitigate their effects. While the passage focuses on genetic modification as a technological solution, the inherent disruptive potential of these stresses implies a necessity for comprehensive preparedness, which includes strengthening disaster management capabilities to cope with agricultural and livelihood disruptions.