This refers to the article by P. Sainath, “Reaping gold through cotton, and newsprint” (May 10). TheHindu must be congratulated on very fair and accurate reporting, and investigative journalism. TheHindu has been consistent and sincere when it comes to focussing on issues involving agriculture, especially farmer suicides. Many of India's so-called success stories should be revisited.
Deepa Nagaraj,Bangalore
Greed, insensitivity and apathy of all the key players mentioned in the article have all formed a dangerous formula like the Bermuda triangle, sucking out the lives of farmers without leaving any trace. The government should answer why it promoted expensive, inferior and unsuitable seeds. The multinational should be dealt with severely.
Dr. D.V.G. Sankararao,Nellimarla
Mr. Sainath's revelations are startling. The Times of India editorial spokesman's assertion that “... the reports (of 2008) were written very honestly and in good faith....” sounds too hollow to carry any conviction in the face of what has been laid bare by Mr. Sainath. The article should serve as a timely reminder to policymakers who are only too eager to provide unhindered market access to any product including agriculture while disregarding ground realities.
S.K. Choudhury , Bangalore
The feature is a blow against all unethical and incorrect practices of pseudo-journalism. What must be appreciated is an article that maintains high standards in reporting and upholds the true spirit of journalism.
Antony Pancras,Chennai
Mr. Sainath has busted one more myth about our success story in the agricultural sector. This along with media reports of rotting grain shows that our priorities are completely wrong.
K. Nehru Patnaik , Visakhapatnam
The article has showed us: how misleading media reports can be; the true state of our farmers in Vidharba, and how MNCs try to influence people and governments.
Rahul Bapat,Bangalore
The media has a bounden duty to disseminate accurate information of what is happening in the country. The sordid happenings in agriculture was interesting.
S. Ramakrishnasayee,Ranipet
It is appalling to know that the media, a pillar of democracy, can be bent to suit the wishes of a few with vested interests.
Abhinav Sharma , New Delhi
