GM maize field trials to proceed in Punjab, defying objections
In Punjab, the field trials of genetically modified (GM) maize have sparked controversy and objections, with environmentalists and coalitions such as the Coalition for a GM-Free India raising concerns about the trials' potential risks and the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NoCs) for these trials.
The main arguments against these GM maize trials include the use of the herbicide glyphosate, which Punjab has banned due to its health risks, and the potential for biodiversity threats, biosafety concerns, and long-term ecological consequences. Activists point out that these trials directly contradict the State's own prohibitory orders and could worsen Punjab's ecological and health crises.
Kavitha Kuruganti, a prominent member of the Coalition for a GM-Free India, has expressed concern over the Punjab government's existing ban on glyphosate and questioned how Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) could receive a No Objection Certificate for trials involving a pesticide that the State has prohibited. Kuruganti also alleges that PAU has a poor track record of conducting "confined" field trials in compliance with statutory guidelines.
The activists argue that the trials pose significant risks and have called for their immediate halt, citing past instances of violations during HT mustard trials, where no action was taken. They also question the lack of transparency in the approval process and the absence of public consultations on these approvals.
In response, PAU officials assert that these trials are strictly for scientific research and not for commercial release. They emphasize that controlled, limited research under regulatory frameworks is essential to evaluate new technologies to make informed decisions rather than speculations or fears.
Despite the assurances, the controversy persists, with demands from environmental groups for a halt to the trials, transparency in decision-making, and deeper inquiry into potential impacts before proceeding any further. The Punjab Agriculture Minister has expressed confidence in the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) to do what is best for the State.
The article was published on July 17, 2025.
- The live controversy surrounding the genetically modified (GM) maize field trials in Punjab revolves around the use of the herbicide glyphosate, a pesticide that Punjab has banned due to health risks, and potential concerns about biodiversity, biosafety, and long-term ecological consequences.
- Kavitha Kuruganti, a member of the Coalition for a GM-Free India, has raised questions about PAU's ability to receive No Objection Certificates (NoCs) for GM trials, given the State's ban on glyphosate and alleged non-compliance with statutory guidelines in confined field trials.
- Activists are demanding a halt to the trials due to the significant risks involved, citing past violations during HT mustard trials, lack of transparency in the approval process, and the absence of public consultations on these approvals.
- Although PAU officials claim these trials are solely for scientific research and not for commercial release, there are calls from environmental groups for transparency, deeper inquiry into potential impacts, and a halt to the trials until these concerns are addressed.
