Kerala government opposes GM mustard cultivation

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 21: The CPI(M)-led LDF government in Kerala today opposed the cultivation of Genetically Modified mustard in the country and demanded that the Centre withdraw sanction for its cultivation.

Talking to reporters after a cabinet meeting here, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the Centre's move to allow GM mustard cultivation has caused concern among people as it might cause health issues. Besides, the promotion of GM seeds would result in the destruction of the country's indigenous seeds, he said.

To a query about the LDF government's liquor policy, he said the government has not discussed the issue so far. As per the previous UDF government's liquor policy, 10 per cent of retail outlets of Kerala State Beverages Corporation have to be shut down every year on October 2, the Gandhi Jayanthi day.

PTI