Having listened to the views of a group of scientists for and against genetic engineering, its regulatory, legal, ethics and social issues, its effects on food and farming and human health, we have come to the following conclusions
1 In view of the overwhelming evidence provided by the global community of farmers, scientists and independent researchers on the ill effects of G E crops and also keeping in mind the doubtful nature of the safety tests conducted by the biotech companies and regulatory bodies, it is advisable to undertake proper, independent and transparent scientific tests for toxicity, allergenicity, environmental impact, pest resistance development and yield levels. Therefore we are in favour of introducing a moratorium on the introduction of GE crops in India
2 The issues of GE crops and foods must be brought to the notice of farmers, consumers and the citizens of this country through a national referendum. The resultant people’s verdict with reference to governance of GE foods must be accepted with full respect.
3 Instead of running behind the mirage of GE crops, the government must encourage sustainable organic agriculture
4 The yield increases claimed by the GE industry are only due to presumed effectiveness in the control of pests. This can be safely achieved by organic products.
5 The government and its approval agencies should adopt stringent and transparent measures without any fear or favour in evaluating/assessing the various claims made for GE products including their safety to the consumer and the environment
6 We do not wish our people to eat GE foods as we do not know how it affects our people’s heath. We do not trust an industry that makes money at the cost of public health and we certainly do not trust a government that ignores its people’s health
7 We must strive to create a movement for public understanding of GE crops and GM foods by mobilizing all possible resources – both material and human
8 We don’t want GE crops which can be apocalyptic to life on earth. Let us say No to Bt Brinjal.
9 Government must by law declare Karnataka GM free