What stands in the way of the widespread and careful adoption of 'Genetic Modification (GM)' technology is an 'Intellectual Property Rights' regime that seeks to create private monopolies for such technologies. If GM technology is largely corporate driven, it seeks to maximize profits and that too in the short run. That is why corporations make major investments for herbicide-tolerant and pest-resistant crops. Such properties have only a short window, as soon enough, pests and weeds will evolve to overcome such resistance. This suits the corporations. The National Farmers Commission pointed out that priority must be given in genetic modification to the incorporation of genes that can help impart resistance to drought, salinity and other stresses.
(1) Which one of the following is the most logical, rational and crucial message conveyed by the above passage?
(a) Public research institutions should take the lead in GM technology and prioritise the technology agenda.
(b) Developing countries should raise this issue in WTO and ensure the abolition of Intellectual Property Rights.
(c) Private corporations should not be allowed to do agribusiness in India, particularly the seed business.
(d) Present Indian circumstances do not favour the cultivation of genetically modified crops. .
(2) On the basis of the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. The issue of effects of natural calamities on agriculture is not given due consideration by GM technology companies.
2. In the long run, GM technology will not be able to solve agricultural problems arising due to global warming.
Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only 1 and 2
(c) Both
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
