Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC): An Overview
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex regulatory body in India responsible for the approval, regulation, and monitoring of activities related to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their products. Established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and administered under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), GEAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safe use of modern biotechnology and genetic engineering in India.
GEAC operates under the "Rules for the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export, and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms, Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells," notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.. As per Rules, GEAC is responsible for appraisal of activities involving large scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production from the environmental angle. The committee is also responsible for appraisal of proposals relating to release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms and products into the enviornment including experimental field trials.
Composition:
- GEAC is composed of experts from various fields, including biotechnology, agriculture, environmental science, health, and social sciences. The committee includes representatives from relevant government departments, scientific institutions, and regulatory bodies.
- The committee is chaired by a senior official from the MoEFCC and co-chaired by a member from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Recent Developments
One of the notable recent activities of GEAC was the approval of Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11), a genetically modified mustard crop developed by Delhi University's biotechnology department. This approval, granted in October 2022, has been a significant milestone in the regulation of GM crops in India but has also sparked considerable debate and legal challenges. The case is currently under review by the Supreme Court, highlighting the complexities and contentious nature of GMO regulation in India.
Challenges and Controversies
GEAC faces several challenges in fulfilling its mandate:
- Public Opposition: There is significant public and environmental group opposition to GMOs in India. Concerns about safety, environmental impact, and ethical considerations often lead to legal and social challenges.
- Scientific Uncertainty: The long-term effects of GMOs on health and the environment are not fully understood, requiring ongoing research and cautious regulation.
- Regulatory Burden: Ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards and monitoring requirements places a considerable burden on regulatory bodies and the agricultural sector.
- Balancing Innovation and Safety: GEAC must balance the potential benefits of GM technology with the need to protect public health and the environment. This involves making evidence-based decisions in a complex and evolving scientific landscape.
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) plays a critical role in the regulation and oversight of genetically modified organisms in India. By ensuring that GMOs are evaluated rigorously and used safely, GEAC contributes to the responsible advancement of biotechnology in agriculture and other sectors. As India continues to explore the potential of genetic engineering, GEAC's work will be essential in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by this powerful technology.
