Matia backs GM crop research

Agriculture Minister Matia Chowdhury yesterday asked agriculture scientists to shake off hesitations in genetically modified (GM) crop research to prevent pest attack and boost crop production for feeding the country's growing population.
She also called upon the campaigners of anti-GM crops to come up with substantial evidence that GM crop such 'Bt Brinjal' is hazardous.
"Those who are opposing GM crops should come up with proof that this is hazardous. Without proof, if anyone issues a fatwa claiming that it is harmful, it cannot be accepted," said Matia.
"We will welcome and propagate genetically modified crops, if they are not harmful."
The minister's remark came at a programme on achievements of integrated pest management (IPM) research and development in Bangladesh organised by Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (Barc) at its office.
Matia expressed her willingness to welcome GM crops at a time when agricultural scientists are advancing in research to develop GM varieties of brinjal and potatoes to help resist pest attacks.
According to agriculturists, 30-40 percent of crops are damaged a year in Bangladesh due to pest attacks and diseases. Brinjal or eggplant is affected mostly by pest infestation.
Scientists say 'Bt brinjal' and potato will help resist pest attacks and relieve farmers of insecticides and fungicides uses. Research on 'Bt brinjal' has now reached an advanced stage.
Environmental activists, however, oppose the move arguing that genetically modified brinjals and potatoes will not be safe for human consumption and environment.
Matia said the debates on "Bt brinjal" are mainly in India. She also called upon people who oppose it to provide evidence if the crop has any harmful effects.
The agriculture minister said one should not hesitate to accept scientific inventions that are good for mankind. "Scientists should not be hesitant. They should have forward looking views," said Matia.
She said Bangladesh does not have plenty of arable land to grow food for its rising population. Hence it should focus on taking the advantage of scientific advancement in food production.
"Those who have abundant land, they can go for luxury. But we do not have. We will have to ensure food for our growing population," said Matia, citing that some groups such as pesticides sellers oppose transgenic crops fearing a slump in their business.
She said chemical pesticide and insecticide should be seen as the last choice. "If there is scope, let's avoid it," said Matia.
"We will have to proceed with an open mind…. if pest attacks can be avoided through genetic intervention that will be our choice. The scientists should be looking for those options," she added.
Barc Executive Chairman Wais Kabir, Director General of Seed Wing of the agriculture ministry Anwar Faruque and Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute's Principal Scientific Officer Syed Nurul Alam also spoke.