Though the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) of the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests has cleared the commercial cultivation of genetically modified brinjal (Bt brinjal), the state Agriculture Department is awaiting directions from the Union Agriculture Ministry.

Agriculture Department officials say that Bt brinjal has been given clearance following bio-safety tests, but there was still some dispute at the level of the Union Agriculture Ministry due to strong opposition from certain groups.

The opponents of the genetically modified food crops say that a gene extracted from the bacterium ‘bacillus thuringiensis’ — used to inject into the genetic code of the vegetable — contains protein with toxic properties, and hence, is unsuitable for human consumption.

Bt brinjal, which has got clearance, has been developed by Mahyco (Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company) in collaboration with the US-based firm Monsanto. Mahyco has also developed Bt variety of lady’s finger and other vegetables, but these are still being tested for bio-safety.

Deputy Director (Seeds) B B Kundaria said the Agriculture Department will go as per the directions of the Union Ministry regarding commercial cultivation of food crops, as it is an issue involving health of the masses.

He said the state government had allowed cultivation of Bt cotton seven years ago as it was a non-food crop. But brinjal and vegetables are food crops and extra precaution is needed before giving permission for their commercial cultivation, he added.