May 26, 2000 / Reuters / Sambit Mohanty
NEW DELHI -- Sundar Lal Patwa, the federal Agriculture Minister, was cited
as saying India is conducting initial trials on genetically modified (GM)
crops and is examining the possibility of introducing them, and that India
was not opposed to introducing GM crops but would look at the success of
them in other countries before beginning cultivation in India, adding, "The
trials of genetically modified crops are at a very initial stage. As of now,
we are examining all possible options. We have not made up our mind whether
to introduce it or not. I cannot give a timeframe when we can introduce
them. I think we should not jump into GM crops just because developed
countries are doing it."
Patwa was further cited as saying India was developing hybrid seeds and
would focus on organic farming before going into GM crops. The government
Patwa said the government was committed to protecting its farmers under the
World Trade Organisation regime through high import duties.
(posted without permission)
