Economic Advisory Council’s Report on Genetically Modified Crops (The Hindu)

The Economic Advisory Council highlighted, in its report on Friday, the success of the success of Bt. Cotton. “After the success Bt. Cotton and the benefits it has brought to farmers in Gujarat and Maharashtra, its is imperative that the Government must have a clear policy on genetically modified crop,”  the council said.

The remarks come in the midst of the environment ministry recent moratorium on the commercial production of Bt. Brinjal, which triggered vehement voices voices both for and against the genetically modified crop.

The council chaired by Mr.C. Rengarajan stressed that lack of co-ordination between the extensive network of research institutions has stymied research in agriculture. The council has recommended a 0.3% GDP increase in agricultural research taking it to 1%, as suggested by the Steering committee for the 11th Five year plan.