The Hindu : Tamil Nadu / Chennai News : Tamil Nadu urged to ban genetically modified crops

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Thursday, Jan 01, 2009
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Tamil Nadu urged to ban genetically modified crops

Special Correspondent

“Experts worried about impact of GM food on fertility”

CHENNAI: Green Peace representative Jai Krishna on Tuesday called upon the Tamil Nadu government to ban genetically modified crops.

Taking off from Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss’ statement earlier this month that he would oppose any move to introduce genetically modified food or seeds in the country without holistic studies on their impact on agriculture and health, Green Peace called a press conference to discuss the possible implications of such food on fertility.

Kamala Selvaraj, obstetrician and gynaecologist and fertility expert from GG hospital, Chennai, pointed to the recent Austrian study that showed mice fed with genetically modified corn just over 20 months were found to have a smaller litter in the long run and weaker pups too. It might take a few years to see the actual impact that the genetically modified food might have, even beyond generations.

Jayam Kannan, director, Garbharakshambigai Fertility Centre, said fertility experts were worried about the impact of genetically modified food on fertility.

Sujatha Byravan, molecular biologist and former president, Council for Responsible Genetics, said genetically modified crops must be kept out of the country unless it was proved beyond doubt that they did not cause any damage to human health and the environment.

Film actress and activist Rohini and directors Myshkin and Vasanth spoke.

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