Sat Nov 30 15:34:47 UTC 2024: **Kerala Farmers, Environmentalists Launch Campaign Against Genetically Modified Crops**
THRISSUR, KERALA—November 30, 2024—A coalition of farmers’ organizations, environmental groups, and natural wellness advocates launched a campaign against genetically modified (GM) crops following a Supreme Court order mandating a national GM crop policy. The campaign was initiated at a meeting in Thrissur on Saturday, addressed by Dr. V.S. Vijayan, former chairman of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board.
The group vehemently opposes the introduction of GM crops, arguing that the technology is risky, unnecessary, and driven by false promises from biotechnology companies. They called for a national policy that prioritizes biosafety, biosecurity, and socioeconomic factors, urging the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) to conduct widespread public consultations. Crucially, they demanded that state governments be actively involved in these consultations and prioritize public interest.
Speakers at the meeting criticized the high cost and potential risks associated with GM crops, highlighting concerns about corporate control through intellectual property rights on seeds and genetic material. They contend that India’s food and farming systems do not require GM seeds or organisms and that the government should instead address the negative impacts of intensive agriculture. Noted environmentalists S. Usha, Ashok Kumar V., Sridhar Radhakrishnan, and Pavithra also contributed to the discussions. The coalition plans to organize further campaigns to oppose the introduction of GM crops in India.
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