Though the ruling CPM has taken a policy decision not to allow genetically-modified crops,party politburo member S Ramachandran Pillai said that opposition to GM crops was superstitious. Pillais deviation from the partys stand has triggered a debate,with its ally CPI and pro-Left science organisation Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishath rejecting his view on GM crops and seeds. The CPM has always opposed GM crops and termed the issue as an agenda of international monopolies. When the controversy related to introducing BT brinjal cropped up,the CPM opposed it,saying it would lead to the monopoly of seed giant Monsanto. Pillai sowed the seeds of a fresh controversy on GM crops at a session on agriculture in the era of globalisation,held as part of the CPM-sponsored international congress on Kerala Studies. He said,Exploiting the progress in science and technology was essential to enhance agricultural productivity. The opposition to GM seeds was superstitious and application of GM seeds would increase productivity and address the issue of malnutrition. GM crops should be used after taken necessary precautions. It was not right to blindly oppose development in science and technology. CPI minister Mullakkara Rathnakaran,who handles Agriculture in the Cabinet,said there was no change in the state governments stand. We will not allow the trial of GM crops in Kerala, he said. CPI state secretary C K Chandrappan said a study was required to look into health and environmental issues related to GM seeds. The GM crops would play havoc with the biodiversity. Time is not ripe for GM seeds. But Pillai is free to air his opinions,said Chandrappan,playing down the controversy.
