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 maimi7e 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.
Which one of the following is the most logical, rational and crucial message conveyed by the above passage?
The passage critically examines the current trajectory of Genetic Modification (GM) technology, highlighting how the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) regime fosters corporate monopolies. It argues that corporate-driven GM prioritizes short-term profits, leading to investments in traits like herbicide tolerance and pest resistance, which are ultimately unsustainable due to the evolution of pests and weeds. In contrast, the National Farmers Commission advocates for GM research to focus on incorporating genes that confer resistance to environmental stresses such as drought and salinity. This suggests a need for a shift in the technology agenda, with public research institutions taking the lead to ensure GM technology serves broader agricultural sustainability goals rather than narrow commercial interests.
Option (B): The passage identifies Intellectual Property Rights as a barrier to widespread GM adoption but does not propose the abolition of IPR or advocating for its discussion at the WTO. Its focus is on redirecting the application and priorities of GM technology, not on dismantling the existing legal framework.
Option (C): While the passage critiques the profit-driven approach of private corporations in GM technology, it does not suggest a complete prohibition on their involvement in agribusiness or the seed sector in India. The emphasis is on reforming the objectives and leadership of GM development.
Option (D): The passage does not assert that current Indian conditions are unfavorable for GM crop cultivation. Instead, it advocates for a reorientation of GM research towards developing crops resistant to specific environmental challenges pertinent to agriculture, implying that appropriately developed GM crops could be beneficial.