SKM Opposes Release of Gene-edited Rice Seeds, Seeks Stronger Public Research

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has opposed the proposed release of gene-edited rice varieties, urging the Union government to halt the process and strengthen publicly funded agricultural research.

In a statement, the farmers’ organisation objected to the proposed release and multiplication of DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1, two gene-edited rice varieties. SKM alleged that multiplication of Pusa DST Rice 1 had begun ahead of the coming rabi sowing season and called for the process to be stopped.

A major concern raised by the organisation is the use of patented technologies. SKM said the varieties were developed using CRISPR-Cas9 technology and alleged that licensing arrangements involving Corteva Agriscience had not been adequately disclosed. It argued that farmers’ seed-saving rights and India’s seed sovereignty could be affected by intellectual-property restrictions.

The organisation also raised concerns about the possible impact of gene-edited varieties on India’s traditional rice diversity. It said farmer-developed landraces, including varieties adapted to salinity and climatic conditions, could face displacement or contamination.

SKM further claimed that the introduction of gene-edited rice could create difficulties for India’s organic rice exports, citing restrictions on gene-edited products under organic certification frameworks in the European Union and the United States.

On biosafety, SKM criticised the 2022 exemption of certain SDN-1 and SDN-2 gene-editing techniques from India’s existing GMO biosafety regulations. The organisation argued that the two rice varieties had therefore not undergone what it considers adequate environmental biosafety assessment. It also cited concerns about unintended genetic changes associated with gene-editing techniques.

The farmers’ body questioned the performance claims surrounding the varieties, referring to its interpretation of ICAR trial data. SKM alleged that the varieties showed weaker results on some parameters, including milling percentage and head rice recovery, compared with parent lines, while also reporting higher disease incidence in some trials.

The organisation called for greater government investment in agricultural research and stronger research capacity within the public sector. It said publicly funded research should benefit Indian farmers without patent-related restrictions or excessive corporate profiteering.

SKM also demanded that SDN-1 and SDN-2 gene-editing techniques be brought under full biosafety regulation. It urged farmer organisations and citizens to oppose the release of the gene-edited rice varieties, framing farmers’ rights, food safety and seed sovereignty as key considerations in agricultural policy.