Author(s):

Sushmita and Bal Manohar

Abstract: ‘Transgenics’ or GMOs are the organism having genetic construct of interest that has been introduced by molecular or recombinant DNA techniques. Only a few of GM plants have been approved for commercial cultivation in specific countries. This pose a challenge in terms of ensuring that the non- approved GM seeds/grains are not imported into country. It is thus necessary to be able to distinguish the GM seed from non GM seed. An organic farmer needs to provide evidence that the seed being sold to him or the grain he is producing is not genetically engineered. A breeder needs to verify that a seed contains the intended genetic modification that will result in value added product. The assessment of GM content in samples can be done in three different levels: - detection, identification and quantification. In general, three GMO detection methods are commonly used are: - Phenotypic Bioassay, Protein-based Methods and DNA-based Methods. Since no technology is risk free, a logical assessment of risk-free, a logical assessment of risk involved and scientific evaluation of the identified risks would be a prudent way to harness the new technology. It is mandatory for transgenic to be evaluated for biosafety. In India the Department of Biotechnology of Ministry of Science and Technology is entrusted with responsibility of ensuring biosafety. A three-tier system involving Institute Biosafety Committee, Review committee on genetic manipulation, under DBT and Genetic engineering Approval Committee is formulated to address the biosafety issue of transgenic.

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