Source: Hindustan Times
INDIA, June 24, 2002: Controversy continues as Indian environmentalists warn that the risks associated with Bt cotton, a genetically engineered version, outweigh the benefits. A study done at the Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences in China, has suggested that the use of Bt cotton could cause environmental damage, that Bt cotton fields have more pests, and that natural enemies of the bollworm are fewer in Bt cotton fields. Over a time period of 8 to 10 years, bollworm can also develop a resistance to Bt cotton. Farmers in India have proven that organic cotton cultivation is a viable alternative. Agriculture specialists have approached the ministers of environment, agriculture, science, and technology, asking that more studies be done promoting organic cotton growth and that illegal Bt cotton production in India be halted.