The cry2Ai gene is a specific gene that has been incorporated into transgenic cotton seeds.
This gene is intended to provide resistance to the pink bollworm, a significant pest that affects cotton crops.
By expressing the cry2Ai gene, the cotton plants produce proteins that are toxic to the pink bollworm, thereby reducing the damage caused by this pest.
The cry2Ai gene was developed by Bioseed Research India, a company based in Hyderabad.
The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), which is the regulatory body for genetically modified organisms in India, approved a proposal to test transgenic cotton seeds containing the cry2Ai gene.
The proposed field trials were to be conducted in multiple states, including Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Haryana.
The GEAC has requested the Department of Biotechnology and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to organize activities to educate state governments about genetically modified (GM) crops and the regulatory framework in place for their evaluation.
Some activist groups, such as the Coalition for a GM-free India, have objected to the GEAC pressuring states to provide reasons for disapproval.
They consider it biased lobbying and question why a regulatory body is exerting such pressure.
Transgenic cotton, including Bt cotton, is the only genetically modified crop approved and currently cultivated in fields in India.
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