Bt stand for Bacillus Thuringiensis, it is a bacteria which has properties to kill pest and other insects. Properties of Bt are well known and people have been using it as pesticide (popularly known as Bt- pesticides).
Bt has shell or covering of a protein which act as pesticide for specific insects. The protein, that is responsible for killing or destroying specific insects or bacteria that causes diseases have been extracted and genetically incorporated in crops.
Genetically modified crops , that can produce protein that Bt were capable of producing are known as Bt-Crops . these crops are resistant to certain insects and diseases. Bt- Crops requires less pesticide and hence not only reduces expenditure on pesticide but only help reduce pollution causes by chemical fertilizers.Bt-pesticides and crops are non- allergic to human and use of Bt- Pesticides reduces exposure of farmers to harmful chemical pesticides. Chemical pesticides are broad spectrum pesticides , which also destroys population of good beneficial insects along with pests.
Bt-Maize and Bt-Cotton are begin grown in India for non-edible purpose. Scientific experiment and experience from west has known that Bt-Crops are safe for humans and may grow seed of second green revolution in India.
In lack of Indian research on effects of genetically modified crops and clear guidelines on GMO has lead to banning of Bt- Brinjal. An careful study and educating people regarding GMO is required to pave path for Bt crops for enabling second green revolution in India.
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