Indian go-ahead for GM food crop

Aubergines are widely used in Indian cuisine

Indian regulators have for the first time approved the introduction of a genetically-modified (GM) food crop.

The new variety of aubergine has been developed by one of India's largest seed companies, Mahyco.

It says the GM vegetable is more resistant to natural pests, but anti-GM groups oppose its introduction, saying that there are serious health concerns.

However it is expected to be approved by the Indian government, which already allows GM cotton to be grown.

The BBC's Sanjoy Majumder in Delhi says that has been conducting field trials on GM aubergines for the past three years across 11 sites.

Mahyco is one of India's largest seed companies and partner of US multinational corporation Monsanto.

Earlier this year Mahyco submitted the data to the Indian government's biotechnology regulatory body, which has given its approval.

The issue will now go before the cabinet, which is also expected to back the proposal.

Once it goes into production, it will be the first GM food to hit the Indian market and the first GM aubergine to be produced anywhere in the world.

Mahyco says its product will help improve output and is also resistant to pests.