The controversy over genetically modified (GM) mustard, officially known as DMH-11, has taken a sharp turn with strong criticism from opponents who say proponents lack solid scientific evidence. At the heart of the debate is whether GM mustard should ever be allowed for cultivation in India.
Dr. Ashwani Mahajan, national co-convener of the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), told Swadeshi Online that those pushing for GM mustard are acting like “fundamentalists” and “cannot even give one valid argument” to justify its introduction. He accused pro-GM scientists and economists of relying on propaganda rather than real science, especially when debating yield advantages claimed for DMH-11.
According to Mahajan, the hybrid mustard variety DMH-11 offers yields of around 2,200 kg per hectare, while several conventional research varieties already in India yield up to 4,000 kg per hectare without genetic modification. He argued that improving traditional varieties would be a more sensible approach than adopting GM technology.
Critics also raised concerns about the regulatory process. They claim that approvals given by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) lacked rigorous testing and transparency, with the regulatory system accused of bypassing proper biosafety protocols. Some groups say that herbicide-tolerant GM mustard could threaten non-GM export markets — where India benefits from a “non-GM” tag — and that regulatory gaps undermine environmental safety.
Opponents further argue that the GM mustard in question is not genuinely indigenous (“swadeshi”) since key genes used in its development are patented and linked to foreign technology. They warn that large agricultural exporters may lose market advantage if India abandons its largely non-GM food crop status.
The controversy continues as India’s Supreme Court reviews petitions challenging the GM mustard approval, with environmental groups demanding stricter oversight and more inclusive scientific evaluation before any commercial release.
