September 11, 2009

Monsanto is eyeing opportunities for GM corn in India, which produces nearly 20 million tonnes of coarse grain but with typical yields at less than two tonnes per hectare.

After the success of GM cotton in India, Monsanto is interested in extending its product line there to include corn, rice, wheat and vegetables.

Robb Fraley, Monsanto's Chief Technology Officer, said they are interested in expanding corn production in India.

He said Indian farmers are expected to move from rice to corn as rice uses a lot of water, and Monsanto technology will help reduce water usage and increase yield on less land. 

Monsanto is already testing GM corn in India, but it is the first season for the grain and it is being tested for use in animal feed. 

Monsanto is also looking to expand wheat production in India, and the company has recently made an investment in wheat research to study new traits that will help improve yields and reduce input sources. 

Fraley explained the interest by saying that Indian lifestyles are changing due to income increases and population pressures.