Panel defers decision on GM mustard

The Pro-Agro Private Ltd, which has developed the GM mustard varities, made a detailed presentation seeking commercialisation of its products. But the GEAC decided to analyse the issue further. ‘‘In view of the complex environmental and health concerns, the Committee would like to take a hard look at the proposal before coming to a view,’’ said A.M. Gokhle, chairman of GEAC and Additional Secretary in the Environment Ministry. ‘‘Some ministries and other members of the GEAC sought more time to analyse and interpret the information available. Discussions will continue in the next meeting,’’ he added.

The members of the Committee are understood to have raised issues regarding the effect of genetic pollution from GM mustard leaves and oil in the country.

GM mustard is being seen as a more complex issue that BT cotton given the physiology of the mustard plant and the larger number of species in the mustard family.

In a statement, the Greenpeace demanded that the Government withold the decision to commercialise genetically modified crops, declare a moratorium on all field trials in the country and make a thorough review of all claims by the companies.

‘‘The Government must make public all the reports of the field trials and make corporates accountable for the loss of bio-diversity and faremers’ rights that are likely to be violated with the release of genetically modified crops,’’ said a spokesperson for Greenpeace.