Which of the following is not a benefit of genetically modified plants/crops?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Lower yield
Option (1) Tolerant to abiotic stresses — A benefit. GM crops can bear cold, drought, salt and heat.
Option (2) Pest resistance — A benefit. Pest-resistant crops need fewer chemical pesticides.
Option (3) Lower yield — Not a benefit. GM crops are made to give more, not less.
Option (4) Enhanced nutritional value — A benefit. Golden rice, rich in vitamin A, is an example.
NCERT Extract:
Biotechnological Applications in Agriculture – “… Genetic modification has: (i) made crops more tolerant to abiotic stresses (cold, drought, salt, heat). (ii) reduced reliance on chemical pesticides (pest-resistant crops). (iii) helped to reduce post harvest losses. (iv) increased efficiency of mineral usage by plants (this prevents early exhaustion of fertility of soil). (v) enhanced nutritional value of food, e.g., golden rice, i.e., Vitamin ‘A’ enriched rice.”