Karnataka says no to Bt Brinjal

Bangalore, Jan 20: Karnataka has taken a stand against the genetically modified (GM) Bt Brinjal.

The Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa on Wednesday, Jan 20 told a delegation of people that his state will not allow Bt Brinjal.

The delegation, which comprised of experts from various fields related to the issue, collectively raised concern over the introduction of the genetically modified vegetable into the market.

While the representatives from the horticulture department opposed Bt Brinjal, Agriculture department representatives stressed the need for serious research into the implications of GM crops.

Western Ghat Task force chairman Ananth Hegde also objected against Bt Brinjal.

Mr Yeddyurappa will be sending a letter to the Government of India on the issue.

The delegation included Dr Pushpa Bhargava, Ex-director, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad; Ms Kavitha Kuruganti, National Coordinator, Coalition for GM Free India; Mr Vartur Narayana Reddy, Leading organic farmer; Mr Kodihalli Chandrashekhar, Working President, Karnataka Rajya Raita Sangha (KRRS); Mr G Krishnaprasad, part of GM Free Karnataka; Dr G K Veeresh Ex-Vice Chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences; Mr Nagesh Hegde, social thinker and Beluru Sudarshana, a freelance journalist.

Karnataka's decision comes after the 3rd National Consultation on BT brinjal at Ahmedabad Management Association on Tuesday, Jan 19.

Gujarat farmers, who have benefited from the bio-technology cotton, along with activists and NGOs debated over the crop and communicated their concerns to the minister of state for environment and forest Jairam Ramesh.

GM crops are created after altering genetic material (DNA) for some advantage either to the producer or the consumer.

However, the bio-safety of such crops and environmental implications are still being debated on.

OneIndia News