Possible Implications of a Recent Gazette Notification on Bt-Cotton Scenario in India

According to a new Central Government gazette notification S.0.1813 (E) dated 18 May 2016, titled 'Licensing and Formats for GM Technology Agreement Guidelines, 2016', significant changes were proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture, that if implemented could have had far reaching consequences on cotton scenario in India. However, the Ministry suspended the gazette on 24 May 2016 and invited public comments within 90 days for a possible re-consideration and revision. It remains to be seen, as to which aspects of the gazette would be retained that may re-shape policies which could have a positive influence on the cotton sector.