A book titled Genetically Modified Crops from a Scientist's Perspective written by former director Dr.Sathasivam of Center for Plant Breeding and Genetics of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) was released today, 15 February. The book release event took place in Coimbatore Press Club (CPC) in the city.
The book which was released on behalf of Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises, Agriculture Focus Group (ABLE-AG) is written in a way so that people can understand the Agricultural biotechnology. This book also explains how genetic technology is helpful for modern day farming, said Sadasivam on the sidelines of the book release.
When interacting with the media, he said, “Bt Cotton is the only crop which is permitted in India. However, in countries like USA permission has been granted for Genetically Modified (GM) crops like Bt Soy, Bt Maize and many other crops.”
He added, “About 145 genes have been identified in humans and information in this book will clear the various doubts of farmers and people about the GM crops. The number of people who have cultivated GM Cotton has increased from 135-lakhs in 2002 to 350-lakhs in 2016. Farmers should decide on using GM crops to increase production and in turn their profits. Sadly, the state and central governments do not encourage research activities.” he said.
Rasi Seeds, President Ramasamy, Executive Director of Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises, Shivendra Bajaj and Founder Director of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Ranagsamy participated in this book release function.