The Indian states of Haryana and Karnataka and the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) have approved the cultivation of GM herbicide-tolerant cotton and maize in confined trials at two locations.

The approval allows Rallis India to conduct trials of two GM cotton trait stacks (MLS2154 x MLS4301 x MLS2531 and MLS2154 x MLS4301) to evaluate resistance against cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) and cotton leafworm (Spodoptera litura) and tolerance to glyphosate. Rallis India will also conduct field trials of the GM maize stack MLS10101 x MLS13621 to evaluate resistance against fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and tolerance to glyphosate.