Give any two reasons why the patent on Basmati should not have gone to an American Company.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Context**: The question asks for reasons why the patent for Basmati rice should not have been granted to an American company. Basmati rice is traditionally grown in India and has significant cultural and agricultural importance.

2. **First Reason - Origin and Diversity**: One reason is that there are 27 documented varieties of Basmati rice that are cultivated in India. These varieties have been developed over centuries by Indian farmers and are an integral part of Indian agriculture. Granting a patent to an American company undermines the historical and cultural significance of these varieties, which are native to India.

3. **Second Reason - Impact on Indian Farmers**: The second reason is that if an American company holds the patent for Basmati rice, it would restrict Indian farmers from growing this rice. Indian farmers rely on Basmati rice for their livelihoods, and a patent would mean they could not cultivate it without permission or payment to the patent holder. This would adversely affect their economic stability and agricultural practices.

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