India, US Apple Imports and GM Food Law — UPSC Prelims PYQ...

Consider the following statements:

1. Statement-I: India does not import apples from the United States of America.
2. 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?

1. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
2. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
3. Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
4. Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

Explanation

Statement I is incorrect

• Following the June 2023 decision to resolve six WTO disputes between the US and India through Mutually Agreed Solutions, India lifted additional duties on eight US-origin products, including apples, walnuts, and almonds. As a result, imports of American apples have increased significantly.

Statement II is correct

• The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 prohibits import, manufacture, use or sale of GM food without FSSAI’s approval.

Answer: (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct; Difficulty Level: Easy