New Delhi: An Indian scientist whose team has developed a genetically modified (GM) mustard variety that is inching towards a possible commercial launch said he could soon hand to a state agency a GM cotton variety that can rival Monsanto’s seeds. Reuters reported the technical clearance last month for what could be the country’s first GM food crop. The move has been opposed by activists and politicians amid fears GM food could compromise food safety and biodiversity. The variety is similar to Monsanto’s Bt cotton but can be more resistant to pests, Pental said, adding he handed another GM cotton variety to ICAR last year for further research. Experts warn that even if India did develop a home-grown GM cotton variety in the next few years, it would struggle to sustain a programme that needs to refresh seeds every decade or so.

Source: Mint September 07, 2016 09:33 UTC