(a) whether genetically modified crops like foodgrains, vegetables and fruits are harmful for human consumption as reported by some scientific as well as voluntary organizations;
(b) if so, the details and the facts thereof;
(c) whether extensive study in this regard has been made indigenously by the scientists in our country; and
(d) if so, the details and the outcome thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FARMERS WELFARE
(DR. SANJEEV KUMAR BALYAN)
(a) & (b): There is so far no scientific report confirming that genetically modified (GM) crops are harmful for human consumption. Genetically engineered soybean, cotton, canola and maize are being cultivated and used as food and feed in several countries without any harmful effect on human beings.
(c) & (d): Bt cotton is the only transgenic crop approved for cultivation in India in 2002 after extensive bio-safety studies. Field trials conducted with GM cotton also did not show any toxicity to insect predators, parasitoids and soil microbes. The Government of India is following a policy of case by case assessment of GM crops. All GM crops undergo elaborate food, feed, and environmental safety assessment. The environmental safety assessment includes studies on pollen escape, out-crossing, aggressiveness, weediness and effect of the gene on non-target organisms.
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