Government of region where half of India’s mustard is grown says it won’t allow GM seeds even if approved

The Rajasthan government … said it will never allow commercial cultivation of GM mustard even if the Centre approves it, maintaining that its traditional varieties are giving much better yields than the GM crop.

Biotech regulator Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has already approved a proposal on genetically modified (GM) mustard variety developed by the Delhi University’s Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants.

The final nod from the environment ministry is awaited amid strong opposition from green activists.

“Firstly, we do not need GM mustard because our state has enough traditional varieties with better yields. Secondly, I disagree with gene modification, which is nothing but meddling with nature,” Rajasthan Agriculture Minister Prabhulal Saini told reporters….

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The GLP aggregated and excerpted this article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion, and analysis. Read full, original post: Rajasthan Not To Allow Genetically Modified Mustard Even If Centre Approves