Central govt exempts genome-edited crops from stringent GM regulations

Genome editing was discovered back in 2012, but Indian regulators took a decade to realise its potential for developing nutritionally superior crops resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses

In a far reaching move, the Central government has for the first time issued an order exempting certain types of genome edited crops from the stringent regulations applicable on genetically modified or GM crops thus giving a big boost to their further research and development.

The ministry of environment and forest in an order issued today exempted SDN1 and SDN2 genome edited plants from Rules 7-11 of the Environment Protect Act (EPA) for manufacture, use or import or export and storage of hazardous microorganisms or genetically engineered organisms or cells rules-1989.

“The notification would pave a path for the government