LAHORE, Nov 24 Punjab University's Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology has developed two varieties of insect resistant cotton after years of research.

The newly developed varieties have been approved by the National Biosafety Committee, Pakistan Environment Protection Agency and the Ministry of Environment.

A PU spokesman said the CEMB-01 variety contained single gene and CEMB-02 contained double Bt genes that gave protection against lepidopteron insects. These varieties will be available to farmers for cultivation in the next season after approval from the Punjab Seed Council, which is scheduled to meet in February.

PU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mujahid Kamran and Centre director Prof Dr Amin Athar praised those involved with the research project. — Staff Reporter