RSS-Linked Farmers’ Body Rejects GM Animal Feed In Proposed India-US Trade Framework

The Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS), an agricultural wing associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, has voiced strong resistance to the possible entry of genetically modified products used in animal feed into India.

The organisation has urged the Union government to ensure that such imports are barred completely, regardless of how they are labelled or introduced.

Demand for clarity on protected items

BKS has sought details from the government regarding the "sensitive products" that the Government of India says will remain safeguarded under the proposed trade arrangement with the United States. The farmers' body emphasised that research into the effects of GM crops on both humans and livestock in India is ongoing, and early indications have raised concerns.

"The BKS is of firm belief that US GM products used in animal feed should not be allowed in the country under any circumstances, under any name or condition," said the organisation's General Secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra in a statement.

Health and biodiversity concerns highlighted

Reiterating its long-held position, the organisation stressed that genetically modified crops remain prohibited in India for a reason and warned against any policy shift that could undermine ecological balance or public health.

"GM crops are still not allowed in the country. If one has to protect the people's health and India's biodiversity, GM crops have to be kept out," he demanded.

Trade framework lists multiple agricultural products

India and the US recently issued a joint statement outlining an "interim arrangement" aimed at expanding trade ties. According to the White House, India is expected to "eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US food and agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains, red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products."

Detailed response awaited

While acknowledging Piyush Goyal's assurance that "food grains and dairy products" would remain outside the scope of the agreement, BKS said it would reserve a comprehensive response until the government provides full details of the pact. The organisation indicated that its final position would depend on greater transparency about what the deal ultimately covers.