Authors: Kuruganti, Kavitha; Pimbert, Michel; Wakeford, Tom

Source: Participatory Learning and Action, Volume 58, Number 1, June 2008 , pp. 11-17(7)

Publisher: IIED - Participatory Learning and Action

Abstract:

In 2001 a group of smallholder farmers met in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh to take part in a modified citizens' jury. Known as Prajateerpu (Telegu meaning 'people's verdict'), the participation process explored three broad scenarios for the future of farming in the region. It included an assessment of the potential of genetically modified (GM) crops. A four-day hearing process allowed a jury of 19 - mostly Dalit or indigenous farmers - to cross-question 13 witnesses, which included representatives of biotechnology companies, state government officials and development experts.

The jurors concluded that genetically modified crops would have little foreseeable impact on reducing malnutrition. They expressed concerns about the impact on smallholders of a reliance on artificial fertilisers and pesticides. They called instead for local self-sufficiency and endogenous development in farming and food.

The recommendations of the Prajateerpu jury have generated widespread interest in India and beyond, most recently from the International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development. Meanwhile, Britain's Department for International Development made official complaints to the UK research institutes where two of the facilitators of Prajateerpu were based, and attempts were made to suppress the results, censure the researchers, and discredit the process's methodology. We conclude with some lessons learnt about participatory processes being undertaken on controversial topics of concern to groups who have not traditionally had a voice in decisions.

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Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2008-06-01

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• Participatory Learning and Action (formerly PLA Notes) is the world's leading informal journal on participatory approaches and methods. It is published 2-3 times a year and includes articles of both general and thematic interest. PLA draws on the expertise of guest editors and authors, providing timely accounts and critical analysis about participatory development in specific fields. All articles are peer reviewed by an International Editorial Board. Subscriptions are free to readers from the South. For more information and to subscribe, visit www.planotes.org.

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