India Government Bans Imports Of Genetically Modified Rice

The import of rice in India is permitted only if the exporter is able to furnish a certificate from the competent government authorities from country of export that the exported rice is GM free," the government said in a statement dated Tuesday.

India allows regulated trials for GM-rice but none of these types have been released for commercial cultivation.

Such trials have also been stopped in those regions, where Basmati rice is grown, known for its unique aroma, grain length and cooking properties. Basmati, one of the world's costliest rice types, is grown only in some parts India and Pakistan.