In a world where an ever-growing portion of grains is grown from genetically modified seeds, India has sat on the sidelines — a major farming nation that has almost entirely blocked the cultivation of engineered food crops.
Now that opposition, deeply held by some influential rural groups and environmentalists, is coming under increased pressure, in what could be positive news for trade talks between New Delhi and Washington.
During [recent] talks in Washington, concessions offered by the Indian team already included the possible easing of some restrictions on the import of GM corn. The government is cautiously considering other moves that would pave the way for a looser position ….
Among the pivotal moments due over the coming months is a Supreme Court ruling on the future of a locally developed rapeseed, engineered to produce more oil and to resist certain pests.
A green light there would set a vital precedent in a nation that imports more than half of its consumption of edible oils, and potentially pave the way for other GM food crops.
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