In a brinjal soup

Monsanto Mayho Biotech’s proposal for large-scale field trials of genetically modified Bt brinjals can show a way forward for Indian agriculture. But only if the regulator, the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee, hastens the mechanism to evaluate permissions for trials. The need for Bt seeds cannot be overstated. GM technology offers a way of averting huge damages on account of pests. For instance, India loses about $221 million due to fruit and shoot borers. The Cryl Ac gene in the seeds makes the plant resistant to these pests, which attack it throughout its life cycle. It would, crucially, ensure a truly level playing field. Farmers in developed countries have access to these seeds. In addition to all the other disadvantages Indian farmers have, policy today prevents them from accessing superior seeds.

Admittedly, the myriad problems of Indian agriculture will not get solved at one stroke with genetically modified crops. The government has no escape from policy issues such as subsidies to cereals, water and power. However, the GEAC can help speed up reform in Indian agriculture if the clearance procedure is rationalised. Today the manufacture, use, import and storage of micro-organisms or genetically engineered organisms (GMO) or cells are prohibited without the approval of the GEAC. Recently the GEAC showed foresight in allowing the import of genetically modified refined soybean oil.

Comparisons are instructive. In 2000 China was already the fourth in the world in the acreage of GM crops. It is estimated that 30 to 80 per cent of its paddy, wheat, corn, cotton, soybean and rape crops may be genetically modified by 2010. Further, the question of having to buy new seeds every year by farmers has also been addressed by Monsanto in this case. Public sector institutes have been given seed free of cost to develop their own varieties. This means farmers can save the seeds and use them next year. This should put an end to objections by activists about creating dependence of Indian farmers on multinational corporations. The government must now take this opportunity and move ahead without delay.