Indian study predicts agchem reduction from GM aubergines

The cultivation of genetically modified insect-resistant Bt brinjals (aubergines) would result in an over 40% reduction in insecticide use, says a study by the National Centre for Agricultural Economics and Policy Research (New Delhi). Researchers from the government body have conducted an ex ante assessment while the contentious decision on the commercial cultivation of the GM line is on hold ( Agrow No 586, p 20). The aubergines carry the Bt cry1Ac gene conveying resistance to fruit and shoot borers ( Leucinodes orbonalis). Data from the Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (Varanasi) used in the study revealed that there would be a decrease of 77.2% in the quantities of insecticides used against the pest through adoption of Bt brinjals and an overall insecticide use reduction of 41.8%.