Many transgenic crops are currently being developed and tested at various public and private institutions. Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) is implementing a mega Network Project on Transgenics in Crops (NPTC) to initiate and strengthen the Research and Development (R&D) efforts on functional genomics and transgenic crops.
In view of concerns regarding the risk to human health and the environment from the use of GM crops, Government has, adopted a case by case approach to assess safety concerns in respect of each transgenic event. All issues relating to bio-safety, environmental safety, etc., have been entrusted to a strict regulatory regime under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Genetically modified (GM) crops are already being planted in 25 countries, including 15 developed and 10 industrialised countries as per ISAAA, 2008.
This information was given by Prof. K.V. Thomas, Minister of State for Agriculture in written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha.
Govt of India supports production of GM crops for food security
Special Correspondent - 2010-03-12 13:25
New Delhi: Genetically Modified (GM) crops have the potential to increase farm yields, reduce farm costs and thereby increase farm incomes. The Government has, therefore, been very supportive of the efforts to develop transgenic crops.