question_answer

Now-a-days there is a huge protest against GM crops like Bt brinjal, Bt cotton, etc. These genetically modified crops are cultivated in many parts of the world.

(i) Being a protestor, enlist the arguments given against these crops.

(ii) What is meant by Bt in the above mentioned crops and what is its significance?

(iii) What values are shown by the protestors?

Answer:

(i) The arguments include

(a) They may cause allergic reactions in consumers.

(b) They may become toxic to humans and other animals.

(c) They may interfere with the bacteria present in gut and make it resistant to antibiotics.

(ii) Bt stands for Bacillus thuringiensis which possesses cry genes. These genes are toxic to certain insect pests.

(iii) The protestors are concerned for the society and health of people.