KNOWLEDGE OVER PERCEPTION

The government's hesitation in going ahead with  trials of genetically modified crops could well be construed as erring on the safe side. But the fact remains that our own range and depth of research in bio-engineered crops is in  infancy and  we are unable to compare notes with  indigenous research nor adduce well  substantiated data from  endemic studies, that could help steer a  scientific view either way.Nor are we able to get over the fears that we would be forever committed to buying seeds under perennial monopoly. Our experience with Bt Cotton ought to give us  confidence to systematically  try out one or two secondary crops.We are  an agro-centric economy and amidst global spurt in agro - innovation forced by climate change, the crux should lie in upgrading our own research skills to be able to judge the  use of newer technologies with greater confidence.

Pub Business Standard AUG 1
Pub Fin Exp Aug 11
http://www.financialexpress.com/news/letters-to-the-editor-loan-waivers/1278224/0