While we are trapped in spiralling whirlpool of economic down trends new hope comes from genetically modified crops. We may get good benefits from good results of scientifically developed crops. Super crops have come to feed the billions of people who need food to survive. Rice, wheat maize and caster oil are now approved genetically engineered crops as per Genetic Engineering Appraisal committee. Now the field trials of these crops are cleared as several states of the India have different policies. Bio-technology Regulatory Authority Bill is still pending approval in the Parliament. And Supreme Court has not passed any judgement on pending cases on powers of regulatory body for genetically modified species. More than that, there are 53 clearances for trials(for experiments for making genetically modified organisms) pending with Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee. But different state governments have given clearances for tests on genetically modified crops. This is like putting the horse before the cart. While bt brinjal or egg plant is held suspicious(banned), other genetically modified plant species will be on our table soon. Individual companies doing research on the species have got approvals from the state governments. But Indian scientists and scientific organizations are going to start the race late. Can we give the people informed choices, whether to choose genetically modified or not to choose? Are the people aware that genetically engineered crops can affect their health adversely? Is not the government responsible for health hazards that genetically modified foods pose?
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