Q. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: India does not import apaples from the United States of America.
Statement-II: In India, the law prohibits the import of Genetically Modified food without the approval of the competent authority.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Correct answer: (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation:
India does import apples from the United States. Despite the additional retaliatory duties imposed on U.S. apples, walnuts, and almonds in 2019, these duties have been removed, allowing U.S. apples to compete in the Indian market. However, the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duties still apply to these imports.
Source: Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)
The import of GM food in India requires prior approval from the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. This regulation ensures that GM foods undergo thorough safety assessments before being allowed into the country.