Biotech firm Monsanto tried GM maize without permission
12 Feb, 2012
A RTI application has reportedly revealed that US biotech firm Monsanto planted herbicide-tolerant maize, called "NK603", illegally inside the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, even though approval was granted only for HT/Bt maize, which is a hybrid of two Bt genes, "MON89034" and herbicide tolerant line "NK603". This implies that Monsanto had put a variety of genetically modified maize on trial without permission. The violation was detected during routine monitoring by the Directorate of Maize Research which was given the task of supervising level-II trials of GM maize in the country. The designated supervisor reportedly noted in his field report of May 5, 2011: "Before planting NK603 event treatment in future, permission from competent authority may be obtained."