Government weighs herbicide-tolerant BT cotton, glyphosate use as industry pushes
India, being a major cotton producer, has traditionally adopted a cautious approach towards genetically modified crops and associated farming practices
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The government is deliberating complex policy decisions regarding Herbicide-tolerant BT (HTBT) cotton and the use of herbicide 'glyphosate' as industry demands intensify. The key issue revolves around permitting widespread glyphosate application in cotton farming, even as discussions are underway about officially introducing HTBT cotton varieties in the country.
A dedicated committee is presently studying the implications of introducing herbicide-tolerant cotton varieties, at a time when glyphosate could potentially be used without such modifications. Such policy matters remain unresolved and require thorough examination.
India, being a major cotton producer, has traditionally adopted a cautious approach towards genetically modified crops and associated farming practices. Currently, herbicides are major players in the agrochemicals industry with a market share of 40 per cent, while emphasising the need for developing specific solutions for weed control.