Sud expresses deep concern over the risk from genetically modified crops

CHANDIGARH: Medical Education and Research Minister of Punjab, Tikshan Sud expressed a grave concern over the risk from genetically modified crops (GM crops) including new allergy causing molecules, toxins etc.



While delivering his views at the national level workshop on the introduction of GM crops at Thiruvananthpuram, he also mentioned that Bt cotton has not performed up to the expectations. Farmers are especially at risks from the multinationals that might take advantage from the GM crops.

He further recommended the discouragement of commercial proliferation of the crops. A policy decision has also been taken according to which the medical colleges of Punjab would constitute specific cells to monitor the impact of the GM crops on human health, said minister Sud.

The Minister appreciated the state of Kerela for having pushed organic farming as a policy thrust area. He took pride in mentioning that Punjab was also actively spearheading in the organic farming.

The Minister mentioned that over 84% of the area of Punjab is under intensive agriculture. It has made a significant contribution to the central food grain pool, constituting 56% of wheat and around 45% of rice.     

He assured to take up the matter with regard to GM crops, at all the levels of the state of Punjab in the larger public interest. Agriculture Minister of Kerala, MullaKara Ratnakaran and Chief Minister of Kerala were also present on the occasion.