Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 4 — Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

This question tests knowledge about India's import policies and regulatory framework for genetically modified foods. Statement-I incorrectly claims that India does not import apples from the USA, whereas the USA is actually one of the major sources of apple imports for India. Statement-II correctly describes India's legal framework regarding GM food imports.

❌ Statement-I – Incorrect: India does import apples from the United States of America. The USA is among the top sources of apple imports for India, along with countries like China, Turkey, and Italy.

✅ Statement-II – Correct: Indian law prohibits the import of Genetically Modified food without approval from the competent authority. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is the statutory body responsible for assessing and approving GM crops and food imports.

📝 Short Notes: GM Food Regulation in India

• Regulatory Authority: Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is the apex body for approval of activities involving large-scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production.
• Legal Framework: The Rules for the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms, Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells (1989) under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 govern GM regulation.
• Import Requirements: All GM food imports require prior approval from GEAC and must comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• FSSAI Role: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for food safety standards, including labeling requirements for GM foods.
• Current Status: India imports GM soybean oil and canola oil but has not approved any GM food crops for cultivation except Bt Cotton (not a food crop).