The bite that can wait

GM mosquito trials only after extensive research

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is reportedly hesitant about giving permission for field trials to release genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes to tackle the menace of diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikungunya. The concept to reduce the population of Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is the carrier of these diseases, is sound in theory. However, DBT scientists fear — rightly — that there may be unknown hazards associated with doing this on scale. 

The initiative comes from the Mumbai-based company, Gangabishan Bhikulal Investment and Trading Limited (GBIT), which is promoted by the Barwale family that also controls Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company