Prospects of Transgenic Food Crops in India

Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) eggplant may become the first transgenic vegetable crop to be commercialized in the Indian subcontinent. This exploratory study conducted in Maharashtra, India suggests that vegetable farmers are generally receptive to the technology primarily for its pest resistance and cost saving attributes. While economic issues dominate the farmers’ perception of Bt eggplant, ethical concerns were conspicuous for their absence. Nonetheless, the risks of the technology and risk management issues need to be better communicated through more effective channels such as the dealer network.