Event postponed due to unscheduled meeting of Mr. Jairam. Event - BT Brinjal Hyderabad Opinion @ CRIDA on 22 Jan 2010

Event postponed due to unscheduled meeting of Mr. Jairam.
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Bt Brinjal is a genetically modified brinjal created by inserting a gene [cry 1Ac] from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis into Brinjal. This is said to give the Brinjal plant resistance against insect pests like the Brinjal Fruit and Shoot Borer (Leucinodes orbonalis) and Fruit Borer (Helicoverpa armigera). Bt Brinjal is being developed in India by M/s Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Private Limited (Mahyco).

The Ministry of Environment and Forests, has received strong views both in favour and against commercialization of Bt brinjal in India, from the various stakeholders, including the State Governments, farmers, civil societies, NGOs and scientists. Hence the Ministry has decided to hold national consultations with the various stakeholders before a final view on the commercialization of Bt brinjal is taken.

Within this context, Ministry of Environment and Forests, GoI has commissioned Centre for Environment Education (CEE) to undertake public consultations across the country.

These consultations are open to all. We request you to inform concerned person/organisation to participate in the consultations, to ensure all interest groups are represented.

Mr. Jairam Ramesh, MoS, MoEF, will Chair the consultation meetings.