India is considering the widespread adoption of herbicide-tolerant (HT) mustard hybrids, such as DMH-11, intended to increase yields and reduce edible oil imports. These varieties are engineered for tolerance to herbicides like glufosinate or imidazolinone.
Critics argue that HT mustard is incompatible with India’s agricultural landscape, which often involves smallholder, mixed-cropping systems. Concerns include threats to non-crop biodiversity, pollinators, and traditional food sources. The use of herbicides could also negatively impact companion crops and vegetation in field bunds.
Additionally, the proliferation of HT crops is expected to increase reliance on costly chemical inputs, contradicting government policies promoting low-input agriculture. The elimination of non-crop plants, which can serve as sources of nutrition, fodder, and support pollinator populations, is also a significant ecological and nutritional concern.
Source: Down To Earth