India’s stand on GM crops

Abstract

The rising trade tension between India and the United States has put forth genetically modified (GM) crops into the spotlight once again, as Washington’s newly imposed tariffs on Indian goods have become entwined with the demands for access to India’s agricultural market particularly GM soy, corn, and related processed feed products raising alarm over both economic leverage and food sovereignty. Now India’s response has been resolute; there will be no compromise on GM food crop imports or commercial cultivation, with Prime Minister Modi and officials emphasizing repeatedly that farmer livelihoods and rural communities are «nonnegotiable» even amid growing tariff pressure. For India, the interests of its farmers are a top priority. We will not trade short-term economic concessions for the genetic integrity of our native crops or the autonomy of millions of smallholders.