What message does the GEAC decision send?

The members could not reach a consensus on the commercialisation of Bt cotton. Some members were not convinced with the results of the previous trials. So we decided for another round of field trials.

DBT is a supporter of Bt cotton technology. Doesn't this decision show that there is difference of opinion in the government itself ?

The meeting tried to convince GEAC members on the commercialisation of the Bt cotton. DBT members were also present and they were not overruled. We are not against technology per se, but as the technology is new to us, we did not want to take any chance.

Then why did you call for an open dialogue ?

GEAC has the authority to go for the approval without talking to anybody. The purpose was to conduct a dialogue between the activists and scientists to clear their doubts and confusions. An open dialogue like this would bring in transparency.