Genetically modified (GM) crops are set to invade India in a large way. The environment minister, Jairam Ramesh, has put a temporary brake on this invasion, but tremendous pressure is being applied to rescind his decision There is growing evidence that GM crops have several negative effects such as introduction of new kinds of allergies, greatly increased resistance to antibiotics, toxicity to various life forms, adverse effect on human health, loss of biodiversity, loss of control over seed production by the farmers, etc.
Southern Action on Genetic Engineering (SAGE) in association with Deccan Development Society, Hyderabad and HIVOS, Netherlands, is organizing a public discussion on how to counteract the pressure of the pro-GM lobby. It will be held at 11 AM on Sunday, 14-11-10 at Maneyangala of the Kalamandira on Hunsur Road. After a short movie on GM crops, P.V. Satheesh, the National Convenor of SAGE will moderate a public discussion on how to spread awareness on the effects of GM crops among the public, especially farmers. Anyone who is interested is welcome to participate.
K.N. Ramachandra, Mysore Grahakara Parishat and SAGE