Monsanto Hopes to Sell More GMOs in India

Summary

The video discusses the evolution of genetically modified (GMO) crops in India, focusing on BT cotton and the potential introduction of GMO food crops. Monsanto and Mahiko, in collaboration, introduced BT cotton, which is resistant to pests, but after years of government approval delays, their efforts to introduce GMO food crops, including rice and okra, remain stalled. While proponents argue GMOs are safe, critics raise concerns about environmental damage, super pests, and public health risks. With India's highest court reviewing GMO food crop trials, the future of biotech crops in India remains uncertain amid growing resistance from farmers facing increasing pest problems.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bt cotton, a genetically modified seed, was introduced by Monsanto and Mahiko over a decade ago to help Indian farmers control pests.
• 🌾 Indian farmers are now looking into genetically modified seeds for other crops like rice, wheat, and okra to address pest issues.
• 🦠 Genetically modified crops like Bt cotton are designed to be resistant to insect pests, but concerns about pests adapting remain.
• 🌍 Global sales of genetically modified seeds have slowed since 2013, partly due to an international backlash against GMOs.
• ⚖️ Regulatory approval for genetically modified food crops in India remains stalled, despite efforts from companies like Monsanto and Mahiko.
• 🌱 Critics argue that genetically modified crops could damage the environment and potentially harm human health, but major health organizations affirm their safety.
• 🌍 The European Union has banned the cultivation of genetically engineered crops in many of its countries, and Russia and China's future stance remains uncertain.
• ⚠️ Environmental concerns include the creation of 'super pests' resistant to Bt cotton and 'super weeds' due to herbicide-tolerant crops.
• 🔬 Monsanto recommends rotating pesticides and using methods like tillage to slow down resistance among pests and weeds.
• ⚖️ India's highest court is reviewing a petition to challenge the testing and introduction of GMO food crops, with a decision still pending.

Q & A

What is the genetically modified cotton seed mentioned in the transcript?

The genetically modified cotton seed referred to in the transcript is called BT cotton, which was developed by US-based biotech company Monsanto. It is engineered to be insect-resistant, helping farmers control pests more effectively.

Who collaborated with Monsanto to introduce BT cotton in India?

Monsanto collaborated with an Indian seed company, Mahiko, to introduce the BT cotton seed in India.

What types of crops are being tested at the facility in Jalna?

At the facility in Jalna, trials are being conducted on several types of crops, including rice, wheat, and okra.

What is the problem with pests in okra and how is BT cotton relevant?

Sucking pests are a significant problem in okra cultivation, similar to other vegetables. The transcript mentions that BT cotton technology, which is insect-resistant, is also being applied to okra crops as a potential solution.

Why are genetically modified (GMO) food crops stuck in regulatory limbo in India?

Despite the efforts of companies like Monsanto, GMO food crops have not been approved by the Indian government, and they remain stuck in regulatory limbo after over a decade of trials and research.

What are some global concerns about genetically modified crops?

Opponents of GMOs argue that they can damage the environment and potentially harm human health. There is also concern about the concentration of seed supply in the hands of a few companies, leading to monopolistic control.

What is the stance of international health organizations on GMOs?

International organizations such as the US Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the European Commission have concluded that GMOs are safe to eat.

What environmental issues have been linked to genetically modified crops?

Environmental concerns associated with GMOs include the failure of BT cotton to control pests, which has led to the emergence of 'super pests,' and the creation of 'super weeds' due to herbicide-tolerant crops.

What solutions does Monsanto recommend to manage resistance in pests and weeds?

Monsanto recommends practices such as rotating pesticides, using tillage, and implementing other methods to slow down resistance among pests and weeds.

What is the current status of GMO food crops in India from a legal perspective?

India’s highest court is currently hearing a petition challenging the testing and introduction of GMO food crops, which is delaying the approval of these crops in the country.