|
This is what is known about Monsanto-Mahyco’s Bt Cotton in Punjab
- The GEAC asked for one more year of ICAR-supervised field trials for the Bt MECH 915 variety in March 2002, while granting approval for other varieties (Mech 12, Mech 162 and Mech 184) for six other states
- Field trials were then conducted in various locations during 2002-03 in Punjab. Of these, some were trials conducted in farmers’ fields and some were conducted in ICAR field stations
- Field trials were taken up under ICAR supervision for Bt varieties of Monsanto-Mahyco, as well as Raasi seeds and for normal hybrid varieties developed by Punjab Agricultural University (PAU). Data is available to show that in atleast one research station, the Monsanto-Mahyco’s Bt variety fared poorly, in comparison to other Bt Varieties and PAU hybrid.
- We also have information on the unscientificity of field trials last year too. It is now a known fact that field trials in this country were ridden with unscientific practices as well as illegal ones.
- Field trials were conducted for varieties which are not approved for Punjab.
- We have information that shows late sowing in farmers’ fields during field trials. Sowing time being different from the recommended and practiced sowing time has been a consistent feature of field trials in this country.
- We have information that shows that small plots were used for the trials and yield data from such plots was extrapolated to a “per hectare” figure.
- We have information that refuge criteria were not strictly followed during the trials. If this is the case with carefully monitored field trial plots, the conditions in real life farming situations in this country is not hard to imagine when it comes to biosafety measures.
- Worse yet, we have information that shows that Monsanto-Mahyco’s varieties are not effective against bollworm infestation nor do they bring down pesticide use. Our video testimonies from farmers in Maisarkhana village are a proof for this. We also know that the economics of the Bt Varieties is completely adverse to the farmers in comparison to other varieties.
- Given the failure of Bt Cotton in the southern states, the huge losses incurred by farmers there and consequent pending issues, and given the unscientific field trials and proven failure in the field trials in Punjab, it is preposterous that these varieties are considered for approval in the northern states.
Click here to view Recent Stories
Click here to view Press Releases
Click here to visit our Document Repository on GE Reports
|