Chennai: With the second phase of approval of genetically modified (GM) mustard scheduled on October 5, farmers and environmentalists across the country are accelerating their efforts against the move.
While few are protesting against the Union government, a section of people are promoting the ‘Ban GM Mustard’ campaign on social media. In an interesting way, which underlines the policies of Mahatma Gandhi, a group of environment activists from the city are conducting a Native seed festival – Seed Satyagraha - on Gandhi Jayanti day (October 2)
The event conducted by - Safe Food Alliance, Organic Farmers Market, Go Organic Life and Grow your own veggies - focuses on sensitizing the citizens on adverse effects of GM Mustard and need to embrace the native seed varieties that are fast dwindling.
“Through the campaign, we try to showcase the indigenous seed varieties and rekindle the connection between seed and food. Close to 55 rice varieties and varieties of veggies and fruit seeds that are almost extinct will be displayed,” said Ananthoo of Safe Food Alliance.
Genetically modified seeds wipe out the native varieties and sky rocket the seed cost. An appalling example is that the 4,000 traditional cotton varieties that existed before commercialisation of BT cotton is now limited to a mere 140 of them.
The seed festival has a raft of activities for everyone: From sessions on gardening and composting workshops, hand on activities to children and organic food stalls.
“Children will be taught to make their own nurseries and seed balls – a ball made of seeds, mud and natural compost. It is a zero waste event and plastic used would be recycled,” said Rekha Ramu of Organic Farmers Market. Venue of the programme is Thakkar Bapa Vidyalaya, S W Boag Road, CIT Nagar East, T Nagar. Entry is free.
