UPSC Prelims 2010 Q5: Science & Technology – Biotechnology & Genetics
Mon 863 is a variety of maize. It was in the news for the following reason
- (a) It is a genetically modified dwarf variety which is resistant to drought
- (b) It is a genetically modified variety which is pest resistant
- (c) It is a genetically modified variety with ten times higher protein content than regular maize crop
- (d) It is a genetically modified variety used exclusively for bio - fuel production
Answer: (b) It is a genetically modified variety which is pest resistant
Explanation
What "Mon 863" maize was in the news for
Mon 863 is a genetically modified maize variety that drew attention over its engineered trait.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) GM dwarf drought-resistant variety | Incorrect | Mon 863's defining trait is not about dwarfing or drought resistance |
| (b) GM pest-resistant variety | Correct | Mon 863 is a Bt maize variety, genetically modified to express a toxin resistant to specific insect pests (corn borer), similar in concept to Bt cotton/brinjal |
| (c) GM variety with ten times higher protein | Incorrect | This is not the trait associated with Mon 863 |
| (d) GM variety exclusively for bio-fuel | Incorrect | Mon 863 is not specifically a bio-fuel-only crop |
Mon 863 facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Trait | Pest resistance (Bt-based) |
| Developer | Monsanto |
| Controversy | Debated safety studies on its health effects drew news coverage |
Answer: (b) It is a genetically modified variety which is pest resistant.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Drought resistance/dwarfing is not the engineered trait associated with Mon 863.
- (b) CORRECT. Mon 863 is a Bt maize variety engineered for pest resistance.
- (c) Incorrect. Protein enhancement is not the trait linked to Mon 863.
- (d) Incorrect. It is not developed exclusively for bio-fuel use.
Key point
Mon 863 is a genetically modified, Bt-based PEST-RESISTANT maize variety (developed by Monsanto) — not a drought-resistant, high-protein, or bio-fuel-specific crop.
Remember
Mon 863: a genetically modified, Bt-based pest-resistant maize variety.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Mon 863's pest-resistance trait with unrelated traits like drought tolerance or protein enhancement.
- Not knowing Bt technology (pest resistance via a bacterial toxin gene) is the common thread across GM crops like Mon 863, Bt cotton, and Bt brinjal.
- Assuming all GM crop news items are about bio-fuel applications.
Exam tip
'Mon 863' = Bt maize, pest-resistant. Same Bt logic as Bt cotton/brinjal — always think 'pest resistance' first for Bt-named crops.
Sources
- European Food Safety Authority — Opinion of the Scientific Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms on MON 863 maize
- Rules for the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Micro-Organisms, Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells, 1989