GM Crop Policy

GEAC and RCGM remain robust, science-driven regulatory bodies committed to biosafety and public interest; constructive dialogue after scientific review can effectively build trust and transparency

Economic think tank GTRI on Saturday cautioned that allowing genetically modified (GM) farm products from the US under the proposed trade pact would have implications for India as it may affect the country's agri exports to regions like the European Union. India and the US are negotiating an interim trade pact, which is expected to be announced before July 9. The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) said that allowing the import of GM products such as soybean meal and distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) for animal feed would affect India's agricultural exports to the European Union (EU), a key destination for Indian exporters. DDGS is a by-product made during ethanol production, usually from corn or other grains. The EU has strict GM labelling rules and strong consumer resistance to GM-linked products. Even though GM feed is permitted, many European buyers prefer fully GM-free supply chains. India's fragmented agri-logistics and lack of segregation infrastructure make

To implement these measures, experts will need to submit written declarations outlining any "conflict of interest" when they join the committee

The apex court is hearing public interest litigations (PILs) challenging the environment ministry's decision to approve the commercial cultivation of GM mustard

SC to take a call on further trials on October 10

It said the government has been disingenuously arguing that DU's GM Mustard, which has used the bar-barnase-barstar technology in the name of pollination control, is not herbicide tolerant

Quick decision-making has pumped up the scientific community, particularly for those who work in the field of agriculture sciences

Not only must crops be more productive, but the agricultural challenges of climate change-including disease, pests and periods of both drought and flooding-mean they must be more resilient as well

Even European Union continues to stand firmly against GM crops

Think-tank says adopting new technology is one of the most important drivers of farm productivity