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Which one of the following Union Ministries implements the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

Which one of the following Union Ministries implements the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety ?

(a)

Ministry of Science and Technology

(b)

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

(c)

Ministry of Environment and Forests

(d)

Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizers

Answer:

(c)

CA

Explanation

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement, which aims to ensure the safe handling, transport and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology. It puts into place procedures for prior informed consent when these organisms move across borders. Looking at the nature of work, the Ministry of Environment and Forests is charged with overseeing and implementing such environmental protocols. The Ministry of Science and Technology mainly deals with the promotion of new areas of Science & Technology and coordinates major scientific projects. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has a broader mandate related to public health and welfare services. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers mainly regulates the production, quality, distribution and pricing of pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Therefore, Option 3 is correct because the ministry`s tasks align with the objectives of the Cartagena Protocol. Furthermore, this ministry supervises the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), which is India’s apex body for approving genetically engineered organisms and products in the country.