India in no hurry to grow GM food crops.

The government is in no hurry to introduce genetically modified food crops in the country, three months after the sector regulator gave its nod to commercialization of GM mustard, because of widespread opposition from different quarters. The government has decided to examine all objections raised by scientists and farmers before taking a decision on genetically engineered (GE) mustard. Pursuant to recommendation of GE mustard by GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee), several representations and concerns have been raised by a wide range of stakeholders including scientists, policymakers, farmers and NGOs. The issues raised are manifold, like long-term health and environmental impact, herbicide tolerance, loss to honey bees and pollinators, outperformance of native varieties, no enhancement in yields, etc. All these issues are under examination.