Stung by adverse political reactions on genetically modified crops, agriculture scientists have formed a 12-member pressure group comprising top scientists to brief ministers and other policy-makers on technology issues in an attempt to win over the political class. Headed by noted farm scientist M S Swaminathan, the Committee on Political Understanding of Science (CPUS) met to discuss the road ahead. A day earlier, Swaminathan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and informed him about agricultural challenges.
The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences formed the unique panel along with another committee on Public Understanding of Science to spread accurate scientific information on GM crops. Both panels are formed on the pattern set up by the Royal Society of London. The committee on public understanding of science is being headed by Deepak Pental, former vice-chancellor of Delhi University and developer of a GM mustard variety. Its job will primarily be to increase awareness among schoolchildren.
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