THE controversial decision by the Government of India's Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC), on March 26, 2002, to grant approval for the commercial release of genetically modified Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) cotton hybrids developed by Mahyco in collaboration with the U.S.-based life sciences major, Monsanto, has opened the door to the entry of GM plant varieties in the country. Bt cotton seeds are genetically engineered to protect the cotton from attacks by American bollworm, the plant's most common pest. The decision has come under attack by scientists, academics and farmers' groups who have led a four-year-long campaign against the introduction of GM cotton. Other GM varieties, they say, will follow, as will genetically engineered food. The introduction of GM varieties, according to them, will create irreversible environment and health damage, while putting at risk conventional agricultural practices that millions of small farmers in the country engage in.

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