The discussion revolves around the commercialization of herbicide-tolerant (Ht) basmati rice varieties by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It claims these varieties can control weeds in rice crops, particularly in the water-saving direct seeded rice (DSR) system. However, these claims are questioned for their scientific validity and potential long-term consequences.
ICAR’s Claim and Critique
ICAR claims that the Ht rice varieties, which are non-genetically modified (non-GM), allow for the direct application of the herbicide Imazethapyr to manage weeds in the DSR system due to a mutated ALS gene. However, scientists argue against the necessity of such technology, stating that eco-friendly methods can effectively manage weeds in DSR, primarily through adjusting sowing dates.
Scientific Evidence Against Ht Rice
Studies, including those conducted by ICAR, suggest that eco-friendly hand weeding is more effective for weed control and higher seed yield compared to repeated applications of Imazethapyr in Ht rice. Additionally, Imazethapyr’s effectiveness is limited to certain types of broadleaf weeds, necessitating additional herbicides for other weed types, thus increasing cultivation costs.
Long-term Consequences
The continued use of the same herbicides could lead to the evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds, posing a serious threat to rice production and food security in India. Similar instances of pest resistance, such as in Bt Cotton, have been observed in the past, leading to significant reductions in crop yields.
Alternative Technologies: DSR
Improved DSR technology, focusing on climatic factors and cost-effective herbicides, has been developed and adopted by farmers. This technology has shown promising results in controlling weeds while conserving water and reducing cultivation costs.
Success Stories and Recommendations
Initiatives like DSR adoption have led to substantial water savings and demonstrated the viability of eco-friendly cropping methods. Contrarily, the introduction of Ht rice technology is viewed as economically non-viable and potentially detrimental to both farmers and the environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the herbicide-tolerant rice technology poses significant risks to agricultural sustainability and national food security. Alternative methods like DSR offer more sustainable solutions and should be prioritized over technologies that may lead to long-term ecological and economic challenges.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary concern regarding the commercialization of herbicide-tolerant basmati rice varieties by ICAR?
- A) Insufficient weed control
- B) Threat to genetic diversity
- C) High cultivation costs
- D) Loss of seed yield
- Answer: B) Threat to genetic diversity
- According to scientists, what alternative method is proposed for weed management in the direct seeded rice system?
- A) Use of genetically modified rice varieties
- B) Adjusting sowing dates
- C) Application of multiple herbicides
- D) Mechanical weed removal
- Answer: B) Adjusting sowing dates
- What is a potential consequence of the continued use of the same herbicides in rice cultivation?
- A) Increased seed yield
- B) Evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds
- C) Reduction in cultivation costs
- D) Enhanced genetic diversity
- Answer: B) Evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds
- Which alternative cropping method has shown promising results in conserving water and reducing cultivation costs?
- A) Transplanted rice system
- B) Herbicide-tolerant rice technology
- C) Direct seeded rice technology
- D) Genetically modified rice varieties
- Answer: C) Direct seeded rice technology
- What is the main argument against the adoption of herbicide-tolerant rice technology?
- A) It leads to higher seed yield.
- B) It is economically viable for farmers.
- C) It poses risks to national food security.
- D) It promotes genetic diversity.
- Answer: C) It poses risks to national food security.