GM mustard: Agri scientists press for okay

Two official entities representing them write to PM for clearance to commercial cultivation

Agricultural scientists are pushing for government approval, without delay, to commercial cultivation of genetically modified (GM) mustard.

The matter is pending with the Union environment ministry and critics of GM technology want a 'No' decision.

Addressing journalists on Monday, scientists from the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research said they'd written to the prime minister to expedite government support for GM technology.

"This technology has a proven track record and GM mustard has been tested by multiple scientific institutions," said Panjab Singh, president of NAAS. It would help reduce India's significant edible oil import of Rs 80,000