Navigating GMO Adoption in Agriculture: Balancing Controversies and Benefits

Juhi Patel^1*, Tejaskumar Bhatt² and Aditi Joshi²

¹Faculty of Computer Application and Information Technology, GLS University, India.

²Faculty of Engineering and Technology, GLS University, India

Corresponding Author E-mail:juhir22495@gmail.com

Abstract:

The discourse around Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in agriculture remains contentious, encompassing concerns about safety, ethical considerations, and potential advantages. With the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the pressure on agricultural systems to meet escalating food demands mounts exponentially. In this context, GMO technology presents a promising avenue for addressing critical challenges such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and economic disparities. This paper undertakes a thorough examination of the controversies and benefits associated with GMO adoption through a synthesis of existing literature and case studies. A Random Forest Regressor model is employed to evaluate the impact of GMOs on crop yield, using a dataset encompassing various agricultural parameters. Categorical variables are encoded, and the data is split into training and testing sets. The model's performance is assessed through Mean Squared Error and R-squared metrics. Feature importance analysis identifies key factors influencing yield, providing insights into the benefits and challenges of GMO adoption in agriculture. The study includes a case analysis of rural farmers' attitudes towards GMOs and a comparative analysis of profit margins between GMO and traditional farming methods. The findings reveal a complex landscape where GMOs offer significant benefits in terms of increased crop yields and improved pest and disease resistance. However, socio-economic and ethical ramifications, such as food security, farmer livelihoods, consumer perceptions, and environmental sustainability, remain critical areas of concern. The case study insights show varying levels of acceptance among rural farmers, influenced by factors such as economic benefits and perceived risks. Additionally, the comparative analysis indicates that GMO farming can lead to higher profit margins under certain conditions, although traditional methods still hold advantages in specific contexts. By presenting a balanced perspective, this research endeavors to promote understanding and facilitate informed decision-making across various stakeholders. The intricate relationship between yield, nutrient requirements, and fertilizer usage is explored, providing essential insights for evaluating GMO performance in agriculture. Ultimately, this paper aims to contribute to a more nuanced and constructive dialogue surrounding the role of GMOs in shaping the future of agriculture.

Keywords:

Agriculture; Fertilizer; Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs); Nutrient requirements; Profit margins; Rural farming; Socio-economic implications

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