The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is a statutory body in India that is responsible for overseeing the safe and responsible use of genetic engineering in the country. The GEAC was established in 1989, and since then has played a critical role in ensuring that genetic engineering technologies are used in a responsible and sustainable manner.
The GEAC is responsible for the appraisal of applications for the release of genetically-engineered organisms into the environment, and for the regulation of the import and export of genetically-engineered organisms. The Committee also provides guidance on the safe handling, transport, and storage of genetically-engineered organisms, and oversees the implementation of measures to minimize the risks associated with their use.
One of the key strengths of the GEAC is its multidisciplinary composition, which includes experts from a range of fields, including biology, genetics, toxicology, and environmental science. This allows the Committee to take a comprehensive and science-based approach to the appraisal and regulation of genetically-engineered organisms.
The GEAC is committed to promoting the responsible use of genetic engineering technologies and ensuring that the risks associated with their use are minimized. The Committee regularly reviews and updates its policies and procedures to ensure that they are consistent with the latest scientific and technological developments.
Chairman of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India.
In conclusion, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and responsible use of genetic engineering in India. By providing guidance and oversight on the use of genetically-engineered organisms, the GEAC helps to ensure that these technologies are used in a manner that is consistent with the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
Bullet points:
- The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee is a statutory body in India responsible for overseeing the safe and responsible use of genetic engineering.
- The GEAC is responsible for the appraisal of applications for the release of genetically-engineered organisms into the environment and for the regulation of their import and export.
- The Committee is multidisciplinary and includes experts from a range of fields, including biology, genetics, toxicology, and environmental science.
- The GEAC is committed to promoting the responsible use of genetic engineering technologies and ensuring that the risks associated with their use are minimized.
- The GEAC helps to ensure that genetic engineering technologies are used in a manner that is consistent with the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
Important Links