Step 1: Understanding genetically modified (GM) plants.
Genetically modified plants are those in which specific genes have been inserted to improve traits such as pest resistance, disease resistance, or nutritional quality. One common modification is the introduction of the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) gene, which produces a toxin harmful to insects but safe for humans.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) BT maize: This is a genetically modified maize that contains the Bt gene for insect resistance.
- (B) BT cotton: One of the most widely used GM crops, Bt cotton resists bollworm pests.
- (C) BT rice: Research has developed Bt rice for resistance against stem borers.
- (D) All of these: Since all the above-mentioned plants are genetically modified, this is correct.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) All of these, because Bt maize, Bt cotton, and Bt rice are all genetically modified plants.