The Supreme Court’s refusal to impose an interim ban on field trials of genetically modified (GM) crops may provide a temporary respite for the agri-biotech industry.
A section of farmers welcomed the apex court’s direction and the Government’s move to reject the recommendations of the Technical Expert Committee for imposing a moratorium on field trials of GM crops.
“A moratorium would have prevented Indian scientists and companies from focusing on emerging technologies,” said Ajay Vir Jakhar, Chairman, Bharat Krishak Samaj, in a statement.
However, the Coalition for a GM-Free India said “the Government’s opposition to TEC recommendations was a let down for all those who expect and demand that it fulfils its responsibility towards the interests of bio safety, public health, environment and farmers.”