Include Farmers’ Opinions in Formulating the National GM Policy: Bharatiya Kisan Sangh

The Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) has raised concerns over the lack of consultation with farmers' organisations on the issue of genetically modified (GM) crops. Mohini Mohan Mishra, All-India General Secretary of BKS, stated, "In July, the Supreme Court directed the central government to develop a National GM Policy in consultation with all stakeholders within four months. However, neither the government nor the committee tasked with this has reached out to farmers or farmers' organisations for their input. This raises serious questions about the committee’s transparency and approach." 

Mishra stressed that farmers are the primary stakeholders and their voices must play a central role in shaping the National GM Policy. To amplify this demand, the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, an affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has launched a nationwide campaign. As part of this initiative, memorandums are being submitted across over 600 districts to Members of Parliament, the Lok Sabha Speaker, and the Rajya Sabha Chairperson.

In its official statement, the BKS reiterated that India does not require GM crops, asserting that chemical-intensive farming and GM technologies are hazardous to farmers, agriculture, and the environment. It warned that GM crops erode biodiversity and accelerate global warming. The organization cited the example of BT cotton, whose failure led to severe financial losses for farmers, with some even resorting to suicide. The BKS called for a focus on employment-generating, low-mechanisation agriculture rather than GM-based farming, emphasising that several countries have already banned GM crops.

The Supreme Court’s July 23, 2024 directive came after nearly two decades of deliberation, mandating the government to consult all stakeholders—including farmers, agricultural scientists, state governments, farmers' organisations, and consumer groups—while formulating the National GM Policy.

Mishra further expressed concern that, three months after the Supreme Court's directive, no consultations have been initiated. Stakeholders fear that there are covert efforts to push GM crop approvals through backdoor channels. Allegations have surfaced that the government is prioritising GM crops under the guise of ensuring food and nutritional security, bypassing necessary consultations and impact assessments.

Raghvendra Singh Patel, All-India Publicity Chief of BKS, called for a thorough and transparent national discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of GM technology. He underscored that any policy on GM crops must reflect the collective views of all stakeholders to ensure an inclusive and sustainable approach.