The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : Private firms urged to share fruits of biotech revolution

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Thursday, Feb 21, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

Private firms urged to share fruits of biotech revolution

Special Correspondent

Farm policy aims at doubling farm output in 10 years
Plea to retain experimental agricultural farm

BANGALORE: Principal Secretary in the Department of Agriculture and Horticulture A. Ramaswamy on Wednesday called upon private commercial enterprises to share the fruits of biotechnological revolution with the people at large. He was inaugurating the centenary celebrations of the Main Research Station of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Hebbal, here.

Mr. Ramaswamy said: “Any meaningful discussion on genetic engineering cannot be confined only to its science. It should also include the serious ethical issues and the consequences raised by the use of technology.” Mr. Ramaswamy said Karnataka Agriculture policy 2006 aimed at doubling the agricultural production in 10 years. At the same time, it enables the State to become a significant player in the global agriculture market by increasing production, effecting higher efficiency and greater value addition to the farm produce. The State Agriculture policy, which was launched coinciding with the 11th Five-Year Plan, recognised the private sector participation in agriculture research, extension and marketing, especially with the advent of biotechnology and protection being accorded to intellectual property.

The former Vice-Chancellor of University of Agricultural Sciences R. Dwarakinath appealed to the government to retain the experimental agricultural farm at Hebbal and release more funds for carrying out research projects.

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