Question : FIELD TRIALS OF GM SEEDS

(a) the findings of the enquiry committee reports prepared by a State Government on field trials of genetically modified seeds of Bt. Paddy and Bt. Okra claimed to have been sanctioned by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR);

(b) the steps taken to rectify the situation and discipline the private companies undertaking field trials for multinational companies violating the mandatory requirements and causing biotech pollution and damage to crops;

(c) whether the Government proposes to formulate guidelines for strict compliance by all companies or institutions engaged in development and field trials of genetically modified seeds of Bt. Crops under direct supervision and responsibility of ICAR; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTILAL BHURIA)

(a) The Ministry has not received any such report. The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is not the sanctioning authority for conducting field trials of genetically modified seeds of different crops.

(b) to (d): All private companies, institutions and universities engaged in the development and field trials of genetically modified seeds of Bt. Crops have been instructed to comply with the biosafety guidelines and institutional mechanism under the provisions of Rules, 1989 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Under the provisions of Environment Protection Act, 1986, whoever fails to comply with or contravenes any of the provisions of the Act or the rules made there under, are punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years with fine up to rupees one lakh.