Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad   

Plea to make State GM-free

HYDERABAD: The Southern Action on Genetic Engineering (SAGE), a forum fighting against introduction of genetically modified (GM) or genetically engineered (GE) food crops in the region, has requested Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy to make Andhra Pradesh a GM-free State by banning trials and cultivation of GE food crops.

In a letter to the Chief Minister, convener of SAGE P.V. Satheesh said that Kerala government had brought in such a legislation last year to make the State GM-free. Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar had also stalled Bt-maize trials in that State questioning the permission given by the Union Environment and Forests Ministry.

He said that the Bt-cotton was harming biodiversity in villages and causing social, economic and health problems. Increase in investment, decrease in yield, health problems to farmers and labourers working in Bt-cotton fields and social conflicts between farmers and shepherds were proved in studies, he said.

Mr. Satheesh urged the Chief Minister to make Andhra Pradesh GM-free in the best interests of farmers and environment. “As farmers in South India are the largest growers of Bt-cotton, it is most appropriate to review its performance through an open public discussion and the State can take the lead.”

He appealed to the Chief Minister to revitalise the State Seed Corporation and enforce their mandate to supply uncontaminated and non-Bt-cotton seed to all farmers.

He told media persons that they were also planning to organise a meeting with all stakeholders soon.

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