GEAC directs testing of GM mustard to address safety concerns

Amid stiff opposition against GM crops, biotechnology regulator GEAC has asked for testing of genetically modified (GM) mustard seed in a bid to address safety concerns, before taking a final decision on its commercial cultivation.

Last week, the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) of the Union Environment Ministry had deferred its decision a proposal to commercialise cultivation of GM mustard seed as it sought additional information. "In the last meeting, a sub-committee of the GEAC submitted its report. Thereafter, GEAC emphasised the need to test GM mustard seed once again to address the safety concerns if any," according to sources. The lab testing will be done in a fortnight or so and the next meeting will discuss the lab report, sources added.