According to a report by a subcommittee at the ministry, genetically modified mustard has been found ‘safe for food/feed and environment’. According to the report, GM mustard technology has been found to be “safe for food/feed and environment” following an assessment of detailed bio-safety data submitted by the technology developer, Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants, Delhi University. If cleared for release by the environment ministry, GM mustard, or DMH-11, developed by Delhi University will be the first GM food crop to be commercially cultivated in India. Organizations opposed to GM technology, like the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), are resisting the commercialization of GM mustard, citing safety concerns. Advocates of GM mustard say it will give a 30% higher yield, but opponents dismiss the claim, saying there is no scientific basis for it.

Source: Mint September 05, 2016 19:18 UTC