Answer

Gene editing refers to the deliberate alteration of an organism’s genetic material to achieve desired traits. This technology holds transformative potential in medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation. However, its rapid advancement necessitates careful consideration of ethical implications to ensure responsible application.

Significance of Gene Editing

• Disease Eradication: Gene editing holds promise for eliminating vector-borne diseases.
  Eg. Scientists have bred malaria-resistant mosquitoes using gene editing techniques to combat malaria transmission.
• Medical Advancements: Gene editing enables the correction of genetic disorders at the DNA level.
  Eg. The CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) developed the FELUDA test using CRISPR technology for rapid COVID-19 detection.
• Agricultural Improvement: It facilitates the development of crops with enhanced traits such as drought resistance.
  Eg. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) introduced DRR Dhan 100 and Pusa DST Rice 1, genome-edited rice varieties designed to consume less water.
• Biotechnology Innovation: It drives advancements in biotechnology, leading to novel therapeutic approaches.
  Eg. The development of CRISPR-Cas9 technology has revolutionized genetic research and therapeutic interventions.
• Environmental Conservation: Gene editing can aid in preserving endangered species and ecosystems.
  Eg. Research is ongoing into editing genes of endangered species to enhance their survival traits.

Ethical Concerns in Gene Editing

• Designer Babies: The potential to select non-medical traits raises concerns about societal implications.
  Eg. The possibility of choosing traits like intelligence or physical appearance could lead to ethical dilemmas.
• Germline Editing Risks: Editing human embryos poses unknown long-term effects.
  Eg. The case of He Jiankui, who edited embryos to confer HIV resistance, sparked global controversy and ethical debates.
• Equity and Access: High costs may limit access to gene editing therapies, exacerbating social inequalities.
  Eg. Sickle cell disease disproportionately affects people in Africa and India, where access to new gene therapies remains difficult.
• Biodiversity Impact: Unregulated genetic modifications may disrupt ecological balances.
• Informed Consent Challenges: Ensuring individuals fully understand the implications of gene editing is complex.

Indian Traditions and Responsible Innovation to Address the Ethical Concern

• Scientific Temper: The Indian Constitution emphasizes the development of a scientific temper among citizens.Eg. Article 51A(h) of the Indian Constitution mandates the promotion of scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
• Ayurgenomics Integration: Combining traditional knowledge with modern science ensures holistic approaches.
• Community-Centric Innovation: Grassroots innovations reflect sustainable and ethical practices.
  Eg. The National Innovation Foundation supports grassroots technological innovations, promoting inclusive and responsible development.
• Ethical Frameworks: Indian ethical philosophies provide a foundation for responsible scientific practices.
  Eg. Concepts like Ahimsa (non-violence) and Dharma (duty) guide ethical decision-making in science.
• Regulatory Oversight: India has established guidelines to govern gene editing research.
  Eg. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has set ethical guidelines for biomedical research involving gene editing.

While gene editing offers significant advancements in medicine and agriculture, it is imperative to approach its application with caution. Drawing upon India’s rich traditions of ethical inquiry and community-focused innovation can provide a balanced framework for responsible and equitable use of genetic technologies.

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