Seven Indo-Bangla organisation jointly protest GM crops

Seven grassroots organisations from Bangladesh and India have expressed firm resolve to promote use of indigenous seeds, crops and foods to address malnutrition and health problems.

In a joint statement signed by three women activists on behalf of the seven organisations on Saturday also denounced cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops.

The signatories are: Farida Akhter of Nayakrishi Andolon and Narigrantha Prabartana, Dr Vandana Shiva of Diverse Women for Diversity, India and Dr Mira Shiva of Initiative for Health, Equity and Society, India.

Women are the primary growers of foods to ensure nutrition throughout history, said the statement. "We will not allow a further degradation of our food systems and knowledge systems. We will not sacrifice our seed and food sovereignty for corporate control and profits," it added.