India extends consultation period on biotech authority bill

The India’s  Standing Committee on Science and Technology and Environment and Forests has announced to extend the time of submission of views and suggestions on BRAI by another 45 days with effect from July 10. The last date for submitting objections to BRAI Bill now is August 25.

Owing to increasing public pressure, the Parliamentary Standing Committee that is examining the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI) Bill, 2013 has extended the time for submission of views and suggestions on the proposed law. The law would make it possible for makers of genetically modified crops gain easy market access in India. Till now India has been growing only one genetically modified crop—cotton.

BRAI’s critics said it has been designed as a single window clearance for quick approval of GMOs and it is meant to replace the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee.