Question

Give any two reasons why the patent on Basmati should not have gone to an American Company.

Answer 1

1. Rice is an important food grain, the presence of which goes back ‘ thousands of years in Asia’s agricultural history. There is an estimated 200,000 varieties of rice in India alone. The diversity of rice in India is one of the richest in the world. Basmati rice is distinct for its unique aroma and flavour and 27 documented varieties of Basmati are grown in India.
2. There is a reference to Basmati in ancient texts, folklore and poetry.