Agri-biotechnology in India

Biotechnology has been in the news recently for not the best reasons. The proposed introduction on Bt Brinjal raked up much controversy across the country. Agri biotechnology is not new, however. In 2002, the Government of India approved the commerical cultivation of Bt cotton.  This lead to the growth of agri biotech among biotechnology firms.

Recent increase in government support – through dedicated R&D laboratories, regulatory framework and policies – has contributed to this growth. Private participation is also on the increase.

The potential is however met with its own share of challenges. India has perhaps gained notoriety for stemming several international patents filed for agricultural produce that has been indeginous to this part of the world for years – basmati rice and turmeric powder to name a few. The need for stonger laws is one such challenge.

A 2007 study by Rabobank delves into these future of agri-biotechnology and addresses some key issues and challenges. For more on the report, visit www.rabobank.com/far