Trait Valuation in Genetically Modified Crops: An ex-ante Analysis of GM Cassava against Cassava Mosaic Disease

Cassava is a widely distributed crop known for food security and industrial applications. Nonetheless, it is highly prone to attacks of pests and diseases. Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) is an important cause of loss across the globe. In this context, research is focused on developing cassava mosaic disease resistant varieties through transgenic and conventional approaches. In this paper, the trait of CMD resistance is valued ex-ante using partial budget approach and economic surplus model. The trait value of CMD resistance at farm level varies from ` 38658 per hectare in drip-irrigated production system to ` 15562 per hectare in rainfed production system. At the macro level, the value of the improved trait is worth 1781.70 million rupees. The results clearly indicate attractive rate of returns on investment in research for CMD resistance in cassava.