Balancing Progress and Tradition: The Unfolding Story of GM Maize

Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini

Maize, or corn, is integral to the diets of millions and a cornerstone of the agricultural economy. In recent years, the push to introduce genetically modified (GM) maize has intensified in India. However, a growing body of evidence and recent incidents underscore the need for a cautious approach to the deregulation of GM maize in India. As of now, the cultivation of GM food crops, including maize, is illegal in India. Despite this, recent studies have unveiled alarming instances of unauthorized GM maize coming in  the Indian market. A study conducted by NIFTEM  in Thanjavur tested 34 maize samples from various states, revealing that over 15% contained GM traits. This unauthorized presence not only violates national regulations but also poses significant biosafety risks. While proponents argue that GM maize promises higher yields and resistance to pests, history has shown us that such claims often come with hidden costs i.e. environmental degradation, economic dependence, and health risks. Imagine a future where the maize we eat is no longer in the hands of Indian farmers but controlled by a handful of global corporations. Imagine a scenario where the seed that has nourished generations in India is genetically altered, patented, and sold at higher prices, forcing our farmers into cycles of debt. This isn’t a dystopian fantasy—it is a looming reality. If the deregulation of GM maize becomes a norm in India. For centuries, maize has been a staple in Indian households, especially in states like Bihar, MP, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. From the makke di  roti in Punjab to the corn-based snacks in North and South India, maize is more than just a crop—it is culture, tradition, and livelihood. India is currently the seventh-largest producer of maize globally, contributing significantly to food security and animal feed production.

Nowadays this indigenous maize is under threat. The rise of GM maize could alter the entire agricultural landscape, GM maize is patented, meaning farmers cannot save and reuse seeds. Every season, they have to purchase seeds from corporations.  India, with its 80% small farmers, cannot afford this level of corporate dependency. Making farmers dependent on multinational corporations (MNCs) for patented seeds while eroding native seed diversity. The fundamental question is: Who should control India’s food—its farmers or corporations?The unique selling point (USP) of GM maize is its alleged higher yield. But the data from the United States—the largest cultivator of GM maize—shows that its yield growth rate is not significantly higher than conventional or hybrid maize. A 2016 report from the USDA admitted that “GM crops do not inherently produce higher yields.” If yield stagnation is a reality in advanced agricultural economies, how can India expect miracles from GM maize? GM maize is often engineered to be resistant to herbicides like glyphosate, which is linked to cancer and environmental harm. The “solution” of herbicide-resistant crops has led to a vicious cycle: Initially Weeds evolve to resist glyphosate, requiring stronger chemicals. Farmers must buy even more expensive herbicides, increasing input costs. Residues of these chemicals enter the food chain, affecting human health. A study published in The Lancet Oncology classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic. It is raising concerns about its widespread use. Do we want Indian fields soaked in chemicals that even developed nations are banning?

Pic: A pictorial represention of vicious cycle of GM Maize

India has diverse maize varieties adapted to different climates, soil conditions, and farming techniques. With GM maize, this rich biodiversity faces an existential threat. Maize is an open-pollinated crop, making it susceptible to cross-pollination with native varieties. This gene flow can lead to the unintended spread of GM traits to non-GM crops. So there is a chance that it may contaminate indigenous maize strains. Such contamination threatens India’s rich agricultural biodiversity and could have unforeseen ecological consequences. In Mexico, scientists found GM contamination in native maize despite a nationwide ban. If this can happen in Mexico, what stops it from happening in India?  India’s maize exports have steadily grown, with countries in Southeast Asia and the Middle East being key buyers. Many nations, including the European Union, reject GM imports. If India’s maize supply gets contaminated with GM traits, we risk losing valuable export markets. A similar crisis hit U.S. farmers in 2013 when China rejected shipments containing unapproved GM maize, causing a $1 billion loss. Those who remember the Bt cotton issue in India fear that history may repeat itself.  In 2002, Bt cotton was promoted as the answer to pest problems. Initially, yields increased, but over time, pest resistance developed, forcing farmers to buy more pesticides. Cotton-growing states like Maharashtra and Telangana reported widespread farmer suicides, often linked to debt from expensive Bt cotton seeds and pesticides. If Bt cotton pushed Indian cotton farmers into distress, what guarantees do we have that GM maize won’t do the same?

A Roadmap for India: Strengthening Non-GM Alternatives 

Rather than relying on biotech firms, India must focus on improving native maize varieties through traditional breeding and marker-assisted selection. Institutes like ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) should lead this effort to develop drought-resistant and pest-resistant maize without genetic modification. Farmers should be supported in adopting agroecological techniques such as Crop rotation to naturally manage pests, Biofertilizers to enhance soil health, non-GM hybrid seeds with improved resilience. Despite India not officially approving GM maize, illegal cultivation has been reported. The government must take strict action against unauthorized GM seed sales and ensure stronger labelling laws for food products. Consumers have the right to know if they are consuming GM maize. ultimately, resistance to GM maize will only be successful if consumers demand transparency. Campaigns, awareness drives, and labelling initiatives can empower people to make informed choices.

India stands at a crossroads. Do we embrace a corporate-controlled food system with patented GM maize, or do we protect our farmers, biodiversity, and food sovereignty? The fight against GM maize is not just about agriculture—it is about India’s right to self-determination in food production. We must choose wisely. Our farmers, our environment, and future generations depend on it.

Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini

Environmentalist, Social Worker, and Trustee of Prashubhgiri (A Trust for Farmers’ Voices).