Workshop on bio-safety held

Tirupati: “Several agricultural research institutes in India are conducting research on genetic engineering methods in plants on a trial basis for higher crop productivity and reduction of losses due to pests and diseases, said Dr Murali Krishna, member secretary of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) and also Joint Director (JD) in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

The MoEF conducted a state-level bio-safety capacity building workshop at Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS) here on Monday. Addressing the scientists at brainstorming session, the JD stated farmers can earn more profits with genetically modified crops. Speaking to The Hans India, Dr Murali Krishna said the MoEF had conducted capacity building and training workshops in 17 states across the country.

“Main advantage of the bio-safety practices is to reduce the use of pesticides, insecticides and fuel consumption. Also, preservation of natural resources like soil and water,” he explained. Murali Krishna further said Hyderabad is playing a key role in identification of living modified organisms.