A study on viability of bt cotton in Andhra Pradesh

As the demand for Bt cotton has been increasing, it has invoked novel interest and exciting emotion among a large section of eminent Indian personalities like biotechnologists, plant breeders, social scientists, environmentalists and on the likely impact of Bt cotton. An in-depth and intensive analytical survey has been carried out through personal interaction and group conversation with the respondent farmers. Although none of the farmers reported cases of any health, food or environmentally negative effects of Bt cotton, some expressed concerns about the possible risks. Several farmers emphasized the need for a cautious approach while exploiting GM technology and asked for a science-based pre and post-release testing and monitoring.