Indian Patents Bill and Biotech IP — NEET Biology

Correct answer: B — S2, S3 and S5 only

The core concept tested here involves understanding the ethical issues, regulatory bodies, and diverse applications of biotechnology as outlined in NCERT. S1: Correct. The NCERT states, "The Indian Government has set up organisations such as GEAC (Genetic Engineering Approval Committee), which will make decisions regarding the validity of GM research and the safety of introducing GM-organisms for public services." This confirms GEAC's role in evaluating ecological impact and human health safety. S2: Incorrect. Genetic modification of crops has multiple aims beyond exclusively enhancing nutritional value. NCERT lists reducing reliance on chemical pesticides, making crops more tolerant to abiotic stresses, reducing post-harvest losses, and increasing efficiency of mineral usage, in addition to enhanced nutritional value. S3: Incorrect. Biopiracy, as defined in NCERT, is "the term used to refer to the use of bio-resources by multinational companies and other organisations without proper authorisation from the countries and people concerned without compensatory payment." The statement incorrectly suggests explicit authorization and fair compensatory payment. S4: Correct. The NCERT mentions, "The Indian Parliament has recently cleared the second amendment of the Indian Patents Bill, that takes such issues into consideration, including patent terms of emergency provisions, research, and development initiatives," directly addressing unauthorized patenting of traditional knowledge. S5: Incorrect. Transgenic animals are produced for several reasons, not solely for studying normal physiological development and disease models. NCERT also lists biological products (e.g., alpha-1-antitrypsin, human alpha-lactalbumin), vaccine safety testing, and chemical safety testing as uses. Therefore, statements S2, S3, and S5 are NOT correct. Option A is incorrect because S1 and S4 are correct, but the option suggests they are not correct along with S3. Option B is correct because S2, S3, and S5 are the incorrect statements. Option C is incorrect because S1 is correct. Option D is incorrect because S4 is correct. The question tests knowledge of the multiple applications of GMOs and the specific concerns and regulatory aspects associated with their release and use.