Brinjal, the humble vegetable, is now a subject of intense debate, as the country tries to figure out the benefits and harmful effects of its genetically modified (GM) variant. In Karnataka and many other states, organizations representing farmers are opposed to the cultivation of Bt brinjal. In this situation two basic question that are popping out in my mind are
Why do we need Bt brinjal? What wrong it can do?
We need it to bring down the cost of cultivation. Sixty to 70% of planted brinjal is lost to pests during cultivation. Farmers use insecticides and sprays that are harmful to the soil as well as to the laborers working on farms.
Brinjal has no natural resistance to the stem borer (pest). Hence, there is a need to have a variant that is resistant to the pest.
The alternative technology, other than conventional breeding, that helps achieve this is Bt. Through this technology, cost and pollution can be reduced and the produce will be bountiful. Moreover, the technology is ready to deliver the product now.
However, the debate over the safety of Bt brinjal continues with mixed views from scientists working for the government, farmers and environment activists.
Environment activists says the effect of GM (genetically modified) crops on rats have shown to be fatal for lungs and kidneys. It is dangerous to introduce these experimental foods into the market without proper research.
But I think our body has now became quite adaptive to any alternation in the natural aspects of product .We Indian has developed our own syndrome system to cater with any kind of product ,be it naturally polluted ,voluntarily contaminated or genetically modified as long as it fulfils our need.
Why do we need Bt brinjal? What wrong it can do?
We need it to bring down the cost of cultivation. Sixty to 70% of planted brinjal is lost to pests during cultivation. Farmers use insecticides and sprays that are harmful to the soil as well as to the laborers working on farms.
Brinjal has no natural resistance to the stem borer (pest). Hence, there is a need to have a variant that is resistant to the pest.
The alternative technology, other than conventional breeding, that helps achieve this is Bt. Through this technology, cost and pollution can be reduced and the produce will be bountiful. Moreover, the technology is ready to deliver the product now.
However, the debate over the safety of Bt brinjal continues with mixed views from scientists working for the government, farmers and environment activists.
Environment activists says the effect of GM (genetically modified) crops on rats have shown to be fatal for lungs and kidneys. It is dangerous to introduce these experimental foods into the market without proper research.
But I think our body has now became quite adaptive to any alternation in the natural aspects of product .We Indian has developed our own syndrome system to cater with any kind of product ,be it naturally polluted ,voluntarily contaminated or genetically modified as long as it fulfils our need.
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