Biological agents, which can be used to harm crops or livestock, pose a potential threat to the agriculture sector in the us. The country needs a comprehensive plan to shore up its defences against such bioterrorism, states a new report of the National Academies' National Research Council (nrc). The document warns that such a large-scale attack would damage laboratory and field resources. The report points out that agricultural bioterrorism could harm people and disrupt economy. It says that the us government should develop potential attack scenarios to help train health and agricultural professionals on how to respond to a disease outbreak. The committee recommends building upon the us department of agriculture's current emergency plans to cope with the unintentional introduction of pests and pathogens.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.