BKS Calls for De-Notification of Bt Cotton Seeds, Opposes Approval of HT Bt Cotton

Farmer body urges adoption of indigenous technology and raises concerns over GM crops during ongoing India–US trade discussions.

The Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) has sought the de-notification of Bt cotton seeds, stating that India should adopt indigenous technology as the country has started depending on imports to support the cotton sector.

The organisation also cautioned the government against approving the controversial herbicide-tolerant (HT) Bt cotton variety. According to BKS, it would launch an agitation if the government proceeds with granting approval for the variety.

Demand Raised During India–US Trade Discussions

The announcement was made by BKS General Secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra while U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is in India for discussions on the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA), in which genetically modified (GM) crops remain a key point of contention.

BKS also stated that domestic cotton prices had declined after the government abolished the 11 per cent import duty till October 31.

Statement on GM Crops

BKS General Secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra said:

“We demand that Bt cotton varieties (BG-I and BG-II) be de-notified with immediate effect. A complete ban should be imposed on all GM crops in the country. Besides, a thorough investigation should be conducted against those who have misled farmers by promoting misleading and false narratives in favour of Bt cotton,” Mishra said, seeking that strict punitive action be taken.