The genetically-modified (GM) brinjal in India has been developed for insect-resistance.

Insect-resistance is the correct answer because the genetically-modified brinjal in India, also known as Bt brinjal, has been developed to resist the attacks of the fruit and shoot borer insect (Leucinodes orbonalis). This insect is a major pest that causes significant damage to brinjal crops, leading to reduced yields and increased use of chemical pesticides.

Benefits of insect-resistance in genetically-modified brinjal:

1. Reduced crop damage: By introducing a gene from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) into the brinjal plants, the GM brinjal produces a protein toxic to the fruit and shoot borer insect. This protein, called Cry1Ac, specifically targets and kills the insect larvae when they feed on the plant. As a result, the damage caused by the insect is significantly reduced, leading to higher crop yields.

2. Decreased pesticide use: The insect-resistant trait in GM brinjal reduces the need for chemical pesticides. Farmers growing Bt brinjal can reduce the amount of pesticide applications, thereby minimizing the negative impacts associated with pesticide use, such as environmental pollution and health risks for farmers and consumers.

3. Economic benefits: Insect-resistant GM crops like Bt brinjal can provide economic benefits to farmers. By reducing crop losses due to insect infestation, farmers can increase their incomes and improve their livelihoods. Additionally, the decreased reliance on chemical pesticides can result in cost savings for farmers.

4. Improved food security: Insect-resistant GM brinjal contributes to food security by increasing the availability of a staple vegetable crop. By reducing crop losses and improving yields, GM brinjal can help meet the growing demand for food in a sustainable manner.

5. Environmental sustainability: The adoption of insect-resistant GM crops can contribute to the sustainable management of agricultural resources. By reducing pesticide use, GM brinjal can help preserve biodiversity, protect beneficial insects, and minimize the negative impacts on ecosystems.

In conclusion, the genetically-modified brinjal in India has been developed for insect-resistance, which provides numerous benefits including reduced crop damage, decreased pesticide use, economic benefits for farmers, improved food security, and environmental sustainability.