Recent discussions surrounding dent corn (Botanical name: (Zea mays) and its potential for maize-based ethanol production have sparked significant interest in India. Dent corn which is often portrayed as a non-edible crop and primarily intended for bioethanol is not true, this information seems to be misleading and it appears to be part of a broader agenda where the pro GM group wants to promotes the importation of genetically modified (GM) maize into the country. To navigate the complexities of dent corn's applications and the implications of its promotion, it is crucial to understand its role in agriculture, food security, and the potential risks associated with GM maize imports.

Dent corn, named for the distinctive dent that forms on its kernels as they dry, is a highly versatile grain with applications that extend far beyond bioethanol production. In many regions across Africa, Latin America, and Asia, dent corn is processed into staple foods, which serves as a dietary cornerstone for millions. It also plays a pivotal role in animal feed, supporting livestock industries globally. Furthermore, dent corn is utilized in various industrial products such as adhesives and pharmaceuticals.  While it is true that dent corn can be used for bioethanol production, this represents only a small fraction of its overall utilization. For instance, data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicates that only 10–15% of U.S. corn is directed toward ethanol production. In contrast, approximately 38% is processed into food products, and about 35% is allocated for livestock feed. This diverse range of applications challenges the oversimplified portrayal of dent corn as merely an industrial crop.

At the heart of the narrative surrounding dent corn may lies a strategic effort to normalize the importation of genetically modified maize, particularly by companies involved in GM maize manufacturing. Over 99% of dent corn grown in the U.S. is genetically modified, and pro-GM groups are leveraging the discourse on ethanol to justify these imports while circumventing India's existing restrictions on GM crops.

India's ambitious push for ethanol blending in fuel has created an opportunity for advocates of GM maize to promote increased imports. Dent corn's high starch content makes it appealing for ethanol production; thus, framing it as indispensable for bioethanol allows pro-GM advocates to create a demand narrative aligned with the supply of GM maize from global markets. Such a shift could risk introducing GM crops into India and undermine the autonomy of its agricultural sector. Promoting imported dent corn for ethanol production poses significant risks to India's agricultural landscape. Increased reliance on imports could lead to fluctuations in domestic maize prices, adversely affecting both consumers and farmers. Moreover, Indian farmers who primarily cultivate non-GM maize varieties may face reduced demand for their produce due to cheaper GM imports flooding the market. This dependence on imported dent corn ties India's energy and agricultural policies to global market dynamics, threatening food security and economic stability. The potential consequences extend beyond economic factors; they also encompass cultural and social dimensions. India has a rich agricultural heritage with diverse non-GM maize varieties that have been cultivated over generations. The introduction of GM maize could disrupt local farming practices and erode traditional knowledge systems that have sustained rural communities.

India's goals for ethanol production should not come at the expense of local agriculture or farmer welfare. Instead of succumbing to external pressures advocating for GM maize imports, India must prioritize investment in non-GM maize research and development. By optimizing local maize varieties for both food and industrial applications, India can enhance food security while simultaneously supporting farmer incomes.  Policy measures should focus on sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize environmental conservation and farmer welfare. To safeguard India's agricultural autonomy and food security, transparent decision-making processes are essential when shaping policies related to biofuels and crop imports. Policymakers must consider empirical evidence regarding dent corn's diverse applications while also weighing the interests of farmers and consumers.  The narrative framing dent corn as merely an industrial crop serves an ulterior motive that risks undermining India's agricultural landscape.

Conclusion: A Way Ahead

Dent corn represents far more than a mere feedstock for bioethanol; it is a vital resource with significant implications for food security, animal feed, and industrial applications worldwide. The oversimplified portrayal of dent corn as a non-edible crop appears to be part of a calculated effort to justify GM maize imports into India.  As India navigates its energy transition towards increased ethanol blending, it must remain vigilant against external pressures that threaten its agricultural integrity. By focusing on sustainable solutions that uphold the principles of self-reliance and environmental stewardship, India can achieve its energy goals without compromising its rich agricultural heritage or food security.  In summary, fostering an environment where local farmers can thrive while meeting energy demands will require careful consideration of policies surrounding dent corn and GM maize imports. By prioritizing local resources and sustainable practices over reliance on imported crops, India can pave the way toward a resilient agricultural future that benefits both farmers and consumers alike.

Dr. Mamtamayi Priyadarshini

Environmentalist, Social Worker, and Trustee of Prashubhgiri (A Trust for Farmers' Voices).