Karnataka explores its own policy stand on GM mustard crop

Karnataka has initiated a parallel process to formulate its stand on the use of genetically modified (GM) mustard crop, even as the Centre is weighing the pros and cons of its commercial rollout.

Agriculture Minister Krishna Byre Gowda indicated that the government is open to gene technology in agricultural crops if it was beneficial to farmers. The use of GM food crops continues to be a controversial issue. Recently, the Centre informed the Supreme Court that it would spell out a policy decision on the use of GM mustard in about a month’s time, well before the mustard sowing season in October.

“The Centre has not specifically asked us for an opinion. Nevertheless, I have informally asked our biotechnology secretary to deliberate on this issue and advise the government,” Gowda told DH. “I’ve asked for a group of experts to be set up if necessary.” Asked if the government was open to GM crops, Gowda referred to the experience of Bt Cotton, which is being cultivated commercially in Karnataka since 2002.

“There may be varying interpretations on Bt Cotton, but if one is to talk based on evidence and facts, 98% farmers in the state today are growing Bt Cotton. And it is not because of government’s advocacy. Farmers took up Bt Cotton on their own. My question is, why would they adopt something that is not to their benefit?” he said. The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC), which is the regulator for transgenic products, gave its nod to GM mustard in May. However, it was challenged before the Supreme Court by activists contending that GM seeds may have adverse effects leading to diseases like cancer.