Letters to the Editor
Need for informed choice on Bt Brinjal
Scientists have taken initiative to develop genetically modified pest resistant Bt Brinjal and they accomplished the goal by inserting a gene (Cry1Ac) from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt.) into the genome of various brinjal cultivars. Meanwhile, some internationally acclaimed scientists led by Professor David Schubert of reputed SALK Institute of San Diego, California has urged that Bangladesh government should not release genetically modified Bt Brinjal as it would result in unprecedented health hazard for the people. It may be mentioned that even Indian government told that it needed more time before releasing Bt Brinjal. The Philippines has also postponed introducing Bt Brinjal in their country.
It is true that Bt Brinjal is resistant to certain common insects and it will obviously increase brinjal production. But every scientific innovation has its merits and demerits. So, before introducing Bt Brinjal in public, more biosafety research is needed.
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