Report on the Review of Transgenic Chickpea Confined Field Trial at University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad by Government of India Team (January 5, 2025)

Date: 06-01-25

Event Details:

The DBT North-East Center for Agricultural Biotechnology (DBT NECAB), has been spearheading efforts in advancing agricultural biotechnology. One such initiative was the confined field trial of transgenic chickpea, which was conducted at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. This trial aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of genetically modified chickpea varieties designed for enhanced productivity and resistance to pests and diseases.

Objective of the Trial
The primary objective of the trial was to evaluate the agronomic performance, environmental safety, and genetic stability of the transgenic chickpea lines. The modified chickpeas were engineered to address various agricultural challenges, including susceptibility to biotic stresses such as diseases and pests, while maintaining nutritional value and adaptability in the farming environment.


Trial Overview
The confined field trial was conducted under controlled conditions to ensure environmental safety. The trial site at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, was carefully selected to meet the required biosafety protocols, which ensured containment and proper management of the trial.
The genetically modified chickpea varieties were monitored for growth parameters, disease resistance, yield potential, and overall adaptability to the region's climatic and soil conditions. The confined nature of the trial ensured that no unintended genetic flow occurred to non-GM crops in the vicinity.


Review by Government of India (GoI) Team
On January 5, 2025, a team from the Government of India conducted a thorough review of the trial. The team assessed several key areas including:
• Agronomic Performance: The growth patterns, seed production, and pest resistance of the transgenic chickpea were found to be on par with the expected outcomes. There was noticeable improvement in pest resistance, which was one of the main traits targeted in the genetic modification.
• Safety Protocols: The review team confirmed that the biosafety measures were strictly adhered to. The site was secured, and protocols for preventing gene flow to non-GM crops were implemented effectively.
• Environmental Impact: An environmental risk assessment was conducted, ensuring that there were no adverse effects on surrounding flora and fauna. The findings confirmed that the trial had minimal to no negative environmental impact.
• Regulatory Compliance: The team found that the confined field trial was compliant with all required regulations under the DBT and the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) guidelines.


Findings
The GoI review team expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of the confined field trial. The following key points were noted during the review:
• The genetically modified chickpeas displayed enhanced resistance to target pests and diseases.
• There was an improvement in yield potential compared to traditional chickpea varieties.
• The trial was conducted within the stipulated biosafety and regulatory framework, ensuring minimal environmental risks.
• No unintended gene flow or cross-pollination was observed with non-GM chickpeas or other crops.


Conclusion
The confined field trial of the transgenic chickpea at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, was successfully conducted and reviewed by the GoI team on January 5, 2025. The findings indicate that the transgenic chickpea lines are performing well in terms of disease resistance, yield, and adaptability to the environment. The trial adhered to all biosafety protocols, ensuring both safety and environmental sustainability.
Based on the successful review, the next steps will likely involve further trials and assessments to move closer to the commercial release of these genetically modified chickpeas. This initiative marks a significant step toward increasing chickpea productivity, benefiting farmers and consumers alike, while also contributing to the sustainability of agricultural practices in India.