The Hindu : National : `No fresh field trials on transgenic crops'

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Saturday, Dec 09, 2006
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`No fresh field trials on transgenic crops'

Special Correspondent

No adverse effect of BT cotton: Minister

NEW DELHI: Noting that no adverse effect of BT cotton had been reported so far, the Government on Thursday said it had not approved any fresh field trials on transgenic crops after the Supreme Court directive on September 22.

However, field trials of transgenic mustard, developed by the Delhi South Campus, have been permitted as per the Supreme Court order of October 13, Environment and Forests Minister A. Raja said during question hour in the Rajya Sabha.

The cultivation of BT cotton in the country had increased ``manifold'' since it was `viable.' The Government maintained that the country's ```own research systems and institutions had nowhere reported that the crop had detrimental outcome.''

Replying to supplementary questions, Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar said no genetically modified (GM) rice had been permitted. The Government was aware of protests by farmers in Haryana and Coimbatore.

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