Bt cotton

Bt cotton is a genetically modified insect-resistant transgenic crop which was developed by changing the genome of the cotton with a protein derived from the soil bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis , to protect the cotton crops from bollworm – a major pest. Bacillus thuringiensis produces an insecticidal Bt toxin protein that exists in crystal or inactive form, also known as cry protein, which when ingested by certain pests such as lepidopterans, coleopterans, and dipterans becomes active in their alkaline gut, crystallizes their digestive system, and finally leads to their death. The gene responsible for coding the protein has been introduced into the cotton plant which then produces the insecticide in its tissue. The introduction of Bt cotton helps the farmers in managing bollworms. The income gains from the adoption of Bt cotton have proven to be beneficial for food security and dietary quality in India. It also reduces the use of pesticides and the risk of health hazards arising from them.