Which of the following statements regarding Genetically Modified Organisms are correct?

(A) Reduced reliance on chemical pesticides

(B) Reduced efficiency of mineral usage by plants

(C) Post-harvest losses are more

(D) Enhanced nutritional value of food

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(A) and (D) only

The correct answer is Option (2) - (A) and (D) only

Plants, bacteria, fungi and animals whose genes have been altered by manipulation are called Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO). GM plants have been useful in many ways. 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.

In addition to these uses, GM has been used to create tailor-made plants to supply alternative resources to industries, in the form of starches, fuels and pharmaceuticals.