Transgenic crops, also known as genetically modified (GM) crops, are plants that have had genetic material from another organism inserted into their DNA in order to confer desired traits such as insect resistance, herbicide tolerance, or improved nutritional content. This technology has been used in agriculture since the 1990s and has been a topic of much debate due to concerns about potential environmental and health impacts. Proponents argue that transgenic crops can increase crop yields, reduce the need for chemical pesticides, and help address food security challenges. Critics raise concerns about environmental risks, potential harm to non-target organisms, and the long-term impacts on human health. Transgenic crops continue to be a prominent area of research in agricultural biotechnology.