Genetic engineering has bypassed the natural process of reproduction. Today scientists have created new life forms -- Genetically modified organisms or Living modified organisms -- through artificial induction of genetic traits or characteristics. These inserted genes may be from a different variety of the organism or even culled from totally unrelated species.

Genetic engineers also call them transgenic organisms -- transfer of genes from one life form to another. This technology thus gives scientists the ability to add, subtract, alter or exchange an individual gene or a group of genes that are known to influence an individual characteristic. As science now has the ability to tamper with these genetic codes, this movement of genes between species is of great concern to scientists and environmentalists.

Will this be beneficial for the environment as a whole or will it create a laboratory imp causing havoc wherever let loose? Or are genetically modified organisms the magical equation needed to solve the world’s problems of food, nutrition and diseases? Will scientists be able to develop genetically modified plants that are not affected by severe hot or cold temperatures? Are GMOs causing unnecessary panic just like vaccination did years ago?

The green revolution in India brought bountiful of food to all. But the enormous increase in pesticide took its toll on the health of people and on the soil. Will genetic modifications have the same results? Have we run out of our traditional knowledge to better our harvest?

Globally, Biotech research is controlled by 15 major corporations, of which 13 are located in North America. These are privately owned organisations. Are such biotech firms trying to create another East India Company, a conglomerate to rule the world? Will they play down the risks their products are associated with? Are they capable of handling the genie they create? These and many more questions need to be explored.

In this issue of G:NET, we examine the world of Genetically Modified Organisms. What are these? How do they affect us? Do we really need them? Will they invade our land and consequently, will our farmers forget the indigenous ways of producing their own seeds? Will our already marginalised farmers benefit or do GMOs sound a death knell for them?

The Environment Education Team, CSE