Saubhadro Chatterji / New Delhi March 11, 2010, 1:08 IST
The tussle over the genetically-modified brinjal, also known as Bt brinjal, between the various lobbies in the government may turn more complicated, as a Parliament Standing Committee representing various political parties is likely to disapprove of the introduction of Bt brinjal in India in its suo motu report on the issue.
NEW DELHI: The Bt brinjal seed stock developed in the country should be deposited with the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources to prevent any potential leakage or contamination during the moratorium on its commercial release.
Rather uncharacteristically, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is actively intervening in critical issues such as Bt Brinjal and 3G (third generation) spectrum auction to resolve bottlenecks. And it seems to be working.
HOW CAN A LOWLY VEGETABLE BE AN ISSUE OF NATIONAL SECURITY? IS THERE A FOREIGN HAND IN YOUR BELLY? SHOMA CHAUDHURY LAYS BARE THE COMPLEX STORY OF Bt BRINJAL AND HOW IT AFFECTS YOU
While the moratorium on Bt brinjal has dealt a blow to the scientific community, there are several genetically modifided crops being developed by the Ministry of Agriculture, trials for which are on across the country. Interestingly, as they work on these GM crops, scientists bear it in mind that apart from the taste, the vegetables should also look acceptable.
Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh has put a moratorium on Bt brinjal with the Cry1Ac gene. But following fresh discussions on the wisdom of the ban, scientists are betting their hopes on a different Bt brinjal
