Question

Student to attempt either option (A) or (B):
(A) Name the Indian crop variety for which, in 1997, an American company got patent rights through the US Patent and Trademark Office. This is considered a case of Biopiracy. Justify.
OR
(B) State two purposes for which the Indian Government has set up GEAC (Genetic Engineering Approval Committee).

Hint:

Biopiracy is exploiting traditional knowledge/resources without consent. GEAC regulates GMO use for safety.

Answer 1

(A) Step 1: The Indian crop variety involved was Basmati rice.
Step 2: In 1997, an American company received a patent from the US Patent and Trademark Office for a new variety of Basmati rice lines and grains.
Step 3: This was considered biopiracy because it involved misappropriating traditional Indian knowledge and resources without consent or benefit-sharing.
Conclusion: India opposed this patent on the grounds of protecting its traditional rights and succeeded in revoking it.
OR
(B) Two purposes of setting up GEAC:

• To regulate the manufacture, use, import, export, and storage of hazardous microorganisms or genetically engineered organisms.
• To ensure environmental safety and human health in connection with research, manufacture, and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).