Agriculture
Gene food promotion on health plank
LIFE sciences companies seem to have changed tack after they encountered unexpected opposition to the introduction of agricultural bio-technology products. Whether it is genetically-- modified corn (maize), soyabean or cotton, many governments and consum er groups around the world are still wary of recommending their use because of the fear of the unknown; primarily apprehensions relating to the long-term implications of consuming such products.

US agri exports estimated at $53 b
A STRONG global economic growth and reduced competition are likely to push US agricultural exports up to a projected $53 billion in fiscal 2001. This represents an increase of $2.1 billion over the final fiscal 2000 figure of $50.9 billion.

Plantations
`New cashew grafts can help raise yields'
THE Mangalore Cashew Manufacturers' Association recently organised a one-day workshop here on `Cashew crop forecasting techniques' with the objective of `throwing light' on the various aspects that determine cashewnut production in the country and to tak e stock of the situation arising out of the decline in India's share in the global market for cashew kernels.

Research on tobacco as industrial crop urged
TOBACCO research would have to be re-oriented to make it an industrial crop with varied applications, and not merely used for chewing and smoking, in view of the grave threats it is facing owing to health concerns, Dr E. A. Siddiqui, national lecturer, I ndian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has said.

Sugar
`Time for relook at sugarcane pricing'
A SHAKE-out in the sugar industry is on the cards with nearly 200 of the 500-odd sugar mills, mainly stand-alone units and factories with smaller crushing capacities, likely to close down their shutters in the next few years.

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