Cabinet nod for Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India Bill

Decks have been cleared for creation of the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India that would replace the Genetic Engineering Approval Authority. The Union Cabinet, at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, today approved the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India Bill which is expected to be introduced in the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament.

The Bill seeks to create a new body to regulate research, manufacture, import and use of products of modern biotechnology. The need for a biotech regulator was highlighted during the recent controversy over introduction of genetically modified brinjal for commercial cultivation.

 The government eventually announced a moratorium on Bt brinjal.

Courtesy: PTI