Bangladesh Sets Sights on GM Crops

Scientists at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) and Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) are conducting glasshouse and field trials of genetically modified (GM) varieties of eggplants, potatoes and vitamin-A enriched Golden Rice developed in collaboration with foreign universities and research institutes. Scientists say the move to introduce GM crops will save farmers the cost of insecticides and fungicides, boost production, and enable consumers to enjoy vegetables free of pesticides.

The Late Blight disease resistant transgenic Rb potatoes developed using the gene from resistant potato species are on trial in 2 confined fields.The insect resistant transgenic Bt eggplant varieties are on trial this year in 7 confined fields of BARI research stations after the 3 on-station field trials in the last two years.  Bt eggplant in their earlier field trials showed satisfactory results, and is expected to be the first GM crop for farmers after necessary government approval. Dr. Md Al-Amin, Head of Biotechnology Division, BARI, developed the Bt eggplant in collaboration with scientists from Tamil Nadu Agril University. He confirmed that "We got good results in the confined field trials last year and found 85-95% of eggplants infestation-free. If the variety can be proved safe for human consumption and harmless to the environment, it will be the first GM crop in Bangladesh".

Apart from the scientific community, the government is also in favor of GM adoption to combat the chronic food deficit problem. Agriculture Minister Ms Matia Chowdhury has been quoted as saying the government will not be conservative regarding GM crops, rather it will be adopted as soon as it is found useful for meeting food security and proven not to be hazardous to the environment and health.

For more information email Dr. Khondoker Nasiruddin of the Bangladesh Biotechnology Information Center at nasirbiotech@yahoo.com