🧷 Authentic Classroom Explanation by IAS Monk

📌 The Question:

Consider the following statements:

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

(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

✅ Correct Answer: (d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

🧠 Curiosity Raiser

Why do agricultural imports often become trade weapons instead of mere commodities?

📘 Enrichment Notes (Current Affairs Anchored)

🔹 India–USA Apple Trade (Recent Context)

• In February 2024, US lawmakers and apple growers celebrated a sharp rise in apple exports to India
• Exports increased 16 times after India:
  • Rolled back the 20% retaliatory tariff imposed in 2019
• The tariff was originally imposed after:
  • The USA revoked India’s GSP (Generalised System of Preferences) benefits in March 2019

❌ Hence, Statement-I is incorrect

🔹 Import of GM Food in India

• Import of GM food, GMOs, LMOs requires prior approval
• Competent authority:
  • GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee)
  • Under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Additional regulation:
  • Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
  • Clearance / NOC required from FSSAI
• Customs clearance only after approvals

✅ Hence, Statement-II is correct

🔑 Prelims Memory Hook

• GM food → GEAC + FSSAI
• Apples from USA → imported (tariff politics involved)

🧘‍♂️ IAS Monk Whisper

In global trade, food often travels with politics packed inside.