Stating that Bt cotton has brought about a "structural transformation" in Indian farming, Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh floate a proposal for carrying out a Government study to ascertain if genetically modified crops are a sustainable alternative.

Addressing a National Conference on 10 years of Bt Cotton in India, the Minister said that more than 95 percent of the farmers in different cotton cultivating states in the country have gradually shifted to Bt cotton.

He added that such a massive shift to Bt cotton would not have been possible, unless the farmers got increased returns.

He also noted that with the use of Bt cotton seeds, there has been a significant reduction in the use of pesticides.

Mr. Jairam said that he does not consider Bt cotton to be a failure, as it has brought about a structural transformation in cotton cultivation.

However, he said there are several scientific queries that still need to be answered and recommended a Government study analysing the sustainability of Bt cotton as a viable option.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India