(a) whether the matter regarding Swiss Biotech Giant Syngenta`s efforts to monopolize control over rice was taken up with the Government for immediate intervention;
(b) if so, whether the Government has already initiated necessary action through Indian Council for Agricultural Research in the matter;
(c) if so, the details of action taken in this regard; and
(d) the outcome thereof?
THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI SHARAD PAWAR)
(a) Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is aware of the Swiss Company Syngenta`s filing patents in the European Patent Office, (EPO) and U.S. Patent and Trade Mark Office (USPTO) in respect of patenting of rice gene(s) sequences for certain traits.
(b), (c) & (d): ICAR has initiated action in this regard through examination of various issues relating to patenting of rice gene(s) sequences. This involves collection of related information, consultations with other stakeholders needed to protect the interest of the rice farmers.