Shimla: Drumming up support for not allowing entry of genetically modified (GM) crops into the country, renowned octogenarian scientist PM Bhargava told reporters here today that seed security was essential for the country’s food security and allowing GM crops not only threatened food security but the very foundation of the nation’s Independence as it had potential to play havoc with the nation’s health and bio-diversity.
He said by surrendering our sovereignty over seeds to GM seeds, it would threaten agriculture, the farmer and the entire rural sector for as much as 60 percent of the people were totally dependent for their income and sustenance on the farm economy.
Bhargava, who because of his differences with other members of the National Knowledge Mission was eased out said that a 15 year moratorium on GM crops needs to be made and the intervening time needs to be utilized for setting up necessary testing facilities which include advanced laboratories for testing and approving GM crops.
Hailing the decision of environment minister Jairam Ramesh for resisting immense pressure on BT Bringal, the senior scientist said that the landmark decision had saved Indian agriculture from falling prey to genetically modified crops.Read Full Story
No comments:
Post a Comment