Parliament Questions on GE seeds

It is very interesting to note that scores of questions have been asked by Members of Parliament across India on the issue of GE seeds and crops. Most of these questions were raised in a concerned tone by MPs in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. It is also interesting to note that most questions have been asked to the Ministry of Agriculture which apparently looks like it was expected to be the nodal agency related to GE in agriculture. Questions have also been posed to the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Ministry of Science & Technology and Ministry of Health & Family Affairs.

A close look at the responses of the government suggest that the concerned ministries have often side-stepped giving a full and correct picture related to GE in the country. Omissions of various kinds can be noted in the responses.

It is unfortunate that despite so much concern and interest expressed by the people's representatives from different parts of India, there has never been a serious debate on the issue which could have led to a rational policy-making process on the very need of GE crops in the country.

Compilation of questions asked in Lok Sabha - 2004 to May 2007

Compilation of questions asked in Rajya Sabha - 2001 to May 2007