Farmers urge Modi against GM crops, US dairy imports
As India and the US get closer to a big trade deal, a major farmers' group, ASHA Kisan Swaraj, is urging PM Modi not to allow genetically modified (GM) crops or US dairy imports into the country.
They say these could break Indian laws on environment and food safety, and worry that such imports could harm public health and rural jobs.
India has always been cautious about GM crops
ASHA warns that letting in US dairy—often made using rBGH, which is banned here—could put over 10 crore small farmers at risk of losing their livelihoods.
They also fear multinational companies would gain more control over what we eat.
India has always been cautious about GM crops for legal and safety reasons, so this debate is really about protecting local farmers, our food standards, and who gets to decide what's on our plates.