India to Begin GM Maize Trials in Punjab
Punjab has approved field trials of genetically modified (GM) maize this Kharif season, sparking controversy. While officials emphasize research benefits and water efficiency, activists raise concerns over glyphosate tolerance in a state where the herbicide is banned. Critics fear environmental damage and increased chemical dependency, while the government maintains the trials aim to develop future-ready, pest-resistant crop varieties.
20 July 2025, New Delhi: Punjab in India is set to begin field trials of genetically modified (GM) maize this Kharif season, with Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) giving the go-ahead. The move comes despite strong objections from anti-GM activists, who have raised concerns over the safety of such trials for farmers, consumers, and the environment.
The trials, scheduled for the current Kharif season, have been approved for research purposes only. PAU has clarified that the GM maize crop will not be released for commercial cultivation, countering public concerns that the trials could lead to widespread adoption.
PAU Pushes Ahead with Trials for Future Crop Development
Punjab’s Agriculture Minister, Gurmeet Singh Khudian, has supported the initiative, noting that PAU has a long-standing tradition of conducting research and field trials. “It is essential to develop new crop varieties to meet future challenges,” he stated. The minister highlighted that maize requires significantly less water than crops like cotton, making it more suitable for regions experiencing water scarcity. He also mentioned that, to his knowledge, no formal objections have been raised so far.
Activists Raise Alarm Over GM Maize
Despite government support, several civil society groups have opposed the trials. The ‘Coalition for a GM-Free India’ has labelled the trials as a potential threat to farmers and the environment. The group’s prominent member, Kavitha Kuruganti, questioned the legality of allowing field trials of glyphosate-tolerant GM maize in a state where glyphosate use is already banned.
Glyphosate Ban Raises Legal and Ethical Concerns
Kuruganti pointed out that Punjab has previously banned glyphosate due to its adverse impacts on human health and the environment. “Permitting field trials of GM maize designed to tolerate a banned herbicide violates the state’s own environmental safeguards,” she argued.
Past Record of PAU Under Scrutiny
She also raised concerns about PAU’s track record, citing previous violations during trials of HT (Herbicide Tolerant) mustard. According to her, despite reported breaches of safety protocols, no action was taken. Kuruganti further revealed that although the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) sought approval from 11 Indian states to conduct GM maize trials, only Punjab granted permission.
Activists Warn of Chemical Dependency and Health Risks
Activists fear that allowing GM maize trials could increase dependence on chemical inputs, exacerbating Punjab’s existing environmental and health crises. They argue that technologies such as herbicide tolerance (HT) and Bt traits lead to a surge in chemical farming, which may heighten risks for farmers, food consumers, and biodiversity.
Government Reiterates Need for Research and Innovation
In response, Punjab’s Agriculture Minister reaffirmed the necessity of continuous innovation in seed development. “Every seed variety faces pest challenges after a few years. Developing new resistant varieties is a scientific necessity,” he emphasized. He assured that PAU’s efforts are aligned with the welfare of the state and its farmers, and that the university will ensure no harm comes from the trials.
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Source : Global Agriculture
