Numerous editorials have been written about food price inflation (Jan.11) but, I am astonished, not one has mentioned the most crucial factor. Weather-related factors and online futures trading have only served to mask the real problem. Farming as a profession has become a global nightmare. The average age of farmers, globally, is above 50 and the next generation of youth seeks employment in areas unrelated to agriculture. Cars, computers and cellphones can be produced at the flick of a switch but not one grain of rice can be done so.
Srinath R.,
Theni
Food shortages can be tackled only by modernising the farming sector and applying advanced technologies. Farmers' cooperatives should be encouraged to take up contract farming.
C. Koshy John,
Pune
