The Science article provides an analysis of on-farm field trials with Bt cotton in different states of India. The scientists reported substantially higher yield increases - with average yields of Bt hybrids exceeding those of non-Bt hybrids and popular check controls (non-Bt local variety) by 80% and 87% respectively with the gains largely due to the Bt gene.

The authors conclude: "Agricultural biotechnology offers many more applications for developing countries beyond pest control, but we show that the GM crops developed so far can already have important impacts. Although there is mounting evidence on the benefits side, the technological potentials are not widely acknowledged. Responsible risk management and balance science communications are prerequisites for overcoming acceptance problems and ensuring sustainable use of GM crops."

A review of this article from the journal Science is provided in Nature magazine: "Transgenic Cotton a Winner in India" currently available at: www.nature.com/nsu/030203/030203-12.html

Chris Leaver
Plant Sciences Department
Oxford University