Agricultural biotechnology to increase farm productivity and profits
Increasing agricultural productivity to support our perpetual increase in demand for quality food without expanding the area under cultivation remains a challenge for Indian farmers. The erratic and severe weather changes have also added to the farmer’s woes.
With multiple variables impacting farm yields, it is imperative to adopt new technologies to keep up with the challenges of safeguarding the environment and natural resources. Agricultural biotechnology can play a crucial role for increasing productivity and farm profits. Dr Shivendra Bajaj, Executive Director, Federation of Seed Industry of India has reiterated that GM crops are safe to grow and consume. Several international organizations such as the FAO, WHO and OECD have confirmed the safety of the biotech crops.
Agricultural biotechnology is research intensive, demands investments and has a very long gestation period with the commercialization of traits. But the returns for the investors have been low because of the uncertainty regarding the regulatory process for this technology. The domestic seed companies will benefit tremendously if the Government promotes agricultural biotechnology in India and makes clear policy on the approval process and commercialization of biotechnology crops.
