The government has said that the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee GEAC is the authority to address all concerns for resolving scientific issues relating to Bt brinjal. It also decided to set up a National Biotechnology Regulatory Authority. The decision was taken late last night at a meeting of senior Ministers held by the Prime Minister to discuss the role of biotechnology in food security in the background of recent decision on Bt brinjal. According to a statement issued by PMO the setting up of the authority will inspire confidence and stimulate public and private investment in biotechnology. It was agreed in meeting that biotechnology is an important option for higher agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. However, statement said that there should be no adverse effect of use of bio technology on human and animal health and bio-diversity. Our correspondent reports that the meeting has been convened following concerns on the moratorium announced by the environment Minister Jairam Ramesh. The Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar, HRD Minister Kapil Sibbal, Science and Technology minister Mr. Prithvi Raj Chavan apart from Mr.Ramesh were present in the meeting held at the Prime Minister's residence. Earlier Mr. Pawar had written a letter to the Prime Minister seeking clarification on the authority responsible for granting general clearance to genetically modified crops.<br/>