Area
India
Commodity Group
Oilseeds, oils and meals
Commodity
GM oilseeds
Date
01/09/2017
Policy Category
Consumption and marketing
Policy Instrument
GMO policy
Description
Postponed a decision on the commercial release of GM oilseeds, notably of a locally developed mustard seed variety, stating that more time was required to examine newly released expert studies on the subject.
Notes
Indian ministry officials informed that the Governments final decision with respect to the commercial release of GM oilseeds notably of a locally developed mustardseed variety remained pending (see also MPPU Sep.16). Reportedly, the Government requires more time to examine various expert studies, including (i) new information submitted by GEAC, the ministerial Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee, and (ii) a report prepared by a parliamentary committee, which flagged alleged gaps in the Governments evaluation process. In the meantime, a note released by Indias National Academy of Agricultural Sciences underlined the importance of GM oilseed varieties for production and farm income growth in the country.
