ibclogo XVI International Botanical Congess


Abstract Number: 5778
Poster No. = 2280


GENETICALLY ENGINEERED SEEDS: A PERSPECTIVE FROM INDIA


Geeta Bharathan, SUNY at Stony Brook, New York, USA


Food security is a primary concern for a large fraction of the world's population. Technological solutions are an inevitable aspect of efforts to ensure this security. The latest example of these, the genetic engineering of seeds, is under intense scrutiny across the world, with concerns being raised regarding the widespread use of these seeds. The recent experience of India, at present largely at the receiving end of this technology, is examined. Biological, ecological, and societal complexities preclude simple resolutions to the problems raised by genetic engineering of seeds. However, a single, resoundingly clear, trans-national message comes through: the free availabilty of information and continual analysis of this information are paramount. Biologists have a critical role in disseminating AND evaluating this information.


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