Although most of the Genetically Modified (GM) crops

Although most of the Genetically Modified (GM) crops cultivated now are genetically engineered for a single trait, in future, crops genetically engineered for more than one trait will be the norm. Thus, biotechnology’s role in agriculture and the regulation of the same cannot be generation of GM crops.

Instead, there is a need to take a comprehensive look, taking into account various aspects, including socio-economic impacts, so that the potential of the technology can be harnessed while minimizing negative impacts.

Given the importance of biotechnology in developing varieties that can help in climate change mitigation and adaptation, not using biotechnology as a part of the climate change action plan cannot be an option. Domestic regulation of biotechnology cannot be viewed in isolation of trade policy and obligations under various international treaties and conventions.

With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

  1. Biotechnology regulation is an evolving process.
  2. Participation of people is needed in policy decisions regarding biotechnology regulation.
  3. Biotechnology regulation should take into account socio-economic aspects in decision-making.
  4. Wider involvement of political executive in biotechnology regulation improved its effectiveness in dealing with the country’s trade policies and international obligations.

Which of the above assumptions are valid?

  1. 1, 2 and 4 only
  2. 1 and 3 only
  3. 2, 3 and 4 only
  4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: B

Explanation

Statement 1 is a valid assumption. "Although most of the Genetically Modified (GM) crops cultivated now is genetically engineered for a single trait, in future, crops genetically engineered for more than one trait will be the norm." Passage via above statement talks about role of biotechnology in both present and future. At present regulation aspect primarily focuses the generation of GM crops only but considering the potential biotechnology carries in different realms including socio-economic and climate change adaptation, regulation in biotechnology seems an ongoing process.

Statement 2 is not a valid assumption. Passage nowhere talks about the participation of people in policy decisions regarding biotechnology regulation.

Statement 3 is a valid assumption. "Instead, there is a need to take a comprehensive look, taking into account various aspects, including socio-economic impacts, so that the potential of the technology can be harnessed while minimizing negative impacts." Above statement clearly support the assumption.

Statement 4 is not a valid assumption. In passage, author nowhere talk about participation of political executive in biotechnology regulation.

  • Exam Year: 2020