JNU scientists develop 'protato' 

A team of scientists at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi has developed a GM Potato. The team has called it as 'protato'. According to a report in the New Scientist magazine the team of scientists lead by Asis Datta at the JNU added the AmA1 gene to potatoes, with the result that they make a third more protein than usual, including substantial amounts of the essential amino acids lysine and methionine. The report says that AmA1 is a gene from the amaranth plant, a crop long grown by native South Americans and now available in some Western health food stores. The report also adds that the Government of India is keen on using GM potatoes to solve malnutrition problems among its poorest children. The use of GM potatoes forms part of a three-pronged approach contained in a 15-year plan to tackle malnutrition and reduce childhood mortality in India.