GEAC defers decision on commercial cultivation of GM mustard

NEW DELHI: Biotech regulator GEAC today deferred its decision on commercial cultivation of genetically modified ( GM) mustard in the country and asked its risk assessment group to look into the deficiencies pointed out by a sub-committee.

Even as activists upped their ante against commercialisation of GM mustard, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), functioning under the Environment Ministry, in its meeting chaired by an Additional Secretary, asked the risk assessment group to submit within 60 days its report, which will be put in public domain for further consultation.

The senior ministry official said the objections put forth by the activists would be forwarded to the risk assessment group.

"A sub-committee, formed earlier, has pointed out certain deficiencies. Those recommendations will also be looked into by the (risk assessment) group. Further process as per rule will be undertaken," an Environment Ministry source said.

Officials said that after the deficiencies are looked into, the applicant will be notified to make a fresh dossier and after re-examinations, it will be put up in the public domain.

GEAC had sought suggestions and recommendations from agriculture experts and farmers on the commercial cultivation of GM mustard and its possible impact on bio-diversity.

The Delhi University's Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants had sought GEAC's permission for environmental release of its transgenic mustard variety. The regulator was to take up the matter in its meeting today, which was second on the issue in this year.

In its earlier meeting in February, GEAC had asked the institution to submit more details to it about the field trial.