Question

The genetically modified crops introduced in India are
A. Cotton
B. Mustard
C. Wild plants
D. Both A and B

Answer 1

Hint:- Genetically modified crops are the most recent developments in the field of agriculture. These crops are called transgenic crops and are produced by altering the genetic makeup of a particular species of the crop. The seeds produced by such plants inherit the new DNA. Genetically modified crops are more advantageous than conventional breeding for improved varieties of crops.

Complete step-by-step solution:- Genetic engineering in agriculture is done to increase crop yield, greater food security, and medical benefits to the world's growing population. Today, almost 10% of the world’s total croplands are used to grow genetically modified crops. Genetically engineered crop plants include Bt cotton, Bt brinjal, Bt corn, transgenic mustard, etc.
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a soil bacterium. This bacterium produces a particular protein which is very effective for killing certain insects like, Lepidopterans (Ex. armyworm), Coleopterans (Ex. beetles), and Dipterans (Ex. flies/ mosquitoes). This bacterium carries a specific gene called the Cry gene which is responsible for producing the prototoxin. Cry genes were first introduced into the cotton plants to produce Bt cotton. Bt cotton is an insect-resistant variety of cotton.
DMH-11 is a Genetically modified mustard variety. The transgenic mustard was developed by Prof. Deepak Pental in 2002 in University of Delhi. He isolated three genes, Bar, Barnase and Barstar, from non-pathogenic soil bacteria Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. He then used these genes to control self-pollination and produce the fertile hybrid mustard seed. It is the best variety of mustard which gives 25-30% more yield than any other variety of mustard currently available like Varuna.
So, the correct answer is (D), Both A and B.

Note:- Some advantages of genetically modified crops include more tolerance to environmental stresses, pest resistance, cause reduced post-harvest losses, highly efficient, and maintain soil fertility. Genetically modified crops have additional nutritional value.