Indian scientists afraid to show support for biotech, fear branding as ‘industry agents’

Scientists who support genetically modified (GM) crops refrain from making their stand public, fearing that they will be branded as corrupt, said noted agricultural scientist T.M. Manjunath.

“There is a valid reason why scientists are not forthcoming with their views on GM crops,” Manjunath said, while delivering a talk. If they speak favourably of GM technology, those against it will brand them as industry agents, tainting their reputation, he added. Manjunath said many scientists are ‘personally convinced’ about using GM technology in agriculture. “It is only because of their personal integrity that they do not come forward,” he added.

Former V-C of University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, and FVCK president, M Mahadevappa, said China has overtaken India by doubling its production through technology. “We are still opposing technology, which is not good for our economy,” he added.

Read the full, original article: ‘Scientists wary of supporting GM crops’

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