'GM foods may hit market in the near future'

The government on Thursday said many genetically-modified (GM) food crops may hit the market in the near future, even as the release of the first such crop - Bt brinjal- for farming hangs in balance following large-scale protests.

"In near future, we may expect many GM crops that have been modified for better availability of vitamins, iron, micronutrients, quality proteins and oils, which would ensure nutritional security to the masses," minister of state for agriculture KV Thomas said at a function organised by the All-India Crop Biotechnology Association.

The minister's remark assumes significance as environment minister Jairam Ramesh is likely to start consultations with stakeholders from January next before giving the final clearance for the release of Bt brinjal for cultivation.

The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee, which is the nodal regulator for the sector, has already recommended the release of Bt brinjal for commercial cultivation.

However, many NGOs and organisations like Greenpeace have been strongly voicing concern about the safety standards of Bt brinjal and its impact on environment, asking the government not to clear it.

On the other hand, proponents have claimed that the GM technology will control major pests and, thereby, raise yields, without harming the ecological order. At present the government has granted permission only to Bt cotton for commercial cultivation.