Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Telangana Farmer Commission Chairman, Kodandareddy, has strongly opposed the central government's recent approval of genetically modified (GM) rice. In a letter addressed to the Union Agriculture Minister on Tuesday, he expressed deep concerns over the decision, warning that it could have severe repercussions on the country’s food system.

Kodandareddy recalled the previous instance during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister when the Congress-led government withdrew the decision to approve genetically modified brinjal after widespread opposition. He emphasized that the current Narendra Modi-led government has made this decision unilaterally, without consulting the state governments or farming communities.

Highlighting Telangana as a major rice-producing state, the chairman stated that the decision would adversely impact the farmers and the economy of the region. He also raised concerns about the violation of farmers’ seed rights and the potential negative effects on rice consumers.

Kodandareddy criticized the Centre for not taking the opinions of the states and stakeholders into account before making such a crucial decision. He stressed the importance of considering the long-term benefits for Indian agriculture and farmers' welfare. In conclusion, he urged the central government to immediately withdraw the approval for genetically modified rice to protect farmers’ interests and ensure the sustainability of the country’s food system.