The social and environmental impacts of the Green Revolution since the
1970s, the on-field testing of genetically-modified crops in the 1990s, the
continued neglect of small farmers in national priorities, and persistent rural
poverty and vulnerability of the rural poor ¿ are among the critical issues that
have led a growing number of civil society organizations (CSOs) in Asia to
question the directions, priorities and strategies of agricultural research and
extension in the region. While recognizing the potential impacts of scientific
research on poverty and food security, CSOs have advocated the need for
greater focus on farmer-led research and extension, sustainable farming
systems, greater recognition of indigenous knowledge and gender equity,
among others.