Minister's move on Bt brinjal evokes mixed reactions

While a section of scientists, which did research on the technology is upset, others welcomed the decision stating there was a need for some more studies.
Those opposed the technology are still worried as the minister has not ruled out the technology completely.
Deccan Herald spoke to a few on the minister’s statement. Here are the reactions.

Dr Ashwath, Senior Scientist, IIHR, Bangalore
The minister’s stand demoralises the scientific team which conducted researches for years. It is high time the country understands the importance of this technology. In our own institute we have been working on drought resistant chili and tomato. Research activities will continue, irrespective of the minister’s statement.

Dr K R Kranthi, Director (Acting), Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur, Maharashtra
In a way it is a good move. There is a need for independent study on bio-safety of the technology. The data available now is the result of studies conducted by the private company which promoted the technology. The Centre should ask its agencies to hold the studies and then take a decision on commercial release of the technology.

Dr P M Salimath, Director of Research, Dharwad UAS
We conducted the field research on the technology in Dharwad. Our studies showed that Bt brinjal was not infected by insects as the non-Bt crops. We are confident of our findings. If the Centre thinks there is a need for more studies, I have no comments on that.

Narayana Reddy, progressive farmer
It is a very good move. I am happy that Jairam Ramesh considered the farmers’ opinion. If at all the Centre defers commercial release of the technology for another five years it is good. By that time there will be a wide range of opposition to the technology across the globe. In India too we will create awareness about the technology and make the opposition strong. Then the Government will not dare commercial release of the technology.

Dr A S Anand, Chairman, Organic Farming Mission
It is only a temporary relief. The minister has said no to commercial release of the technology as of now. He has not said no to the technology in toto. The minister has not yet answered the question, raised in the public consultation in Bangalore about why 198 plants including brinjal have been kept out of the purview of the Bio-Diversity Act. The minister should
reply.

Uday Singh, National Seed Association of India president
If the technology has gone through all mandatory regulations, the Government can release the technology. If the Union Minister feels more tests and researches are necessary, he can defer its commercial release. Ultimately, science should prevail and interests of farmers are taken into account.
DH News Service