Generosity towards the poor

Covid-19 dealt a heavy blow to every one of us and affected every stratum of the economy. Besides others, the pandemic has hit the poor the hardest. Most of the unfortunate lots have lost their jobs and sources of income and as a result, it has now become extremely difficult for them to eke out their living. So, the price rise of the essential commodities at this juncture is a worrisome factor. Despite the government's best efforts, including free distribution of rice, the two-year lockdowns and the present Ukraine war have completely disturbed the rhythm of the economy forcing the rapid rise in fuel prices and other goods.

Well, apart from the green vegetables, the people have now been complaining of the disproportionate escalation in the prices of essential food grains and other everyday useful items. Here the administrative departments need to remain "extra vigilant". They need to ensure that no unscrupulous traders/retailers take undue advantage on the pretext of the rise in fuel prices. For that, each district commissioner should consider constituting a committee that will monitor the market and help control the price rise. This step by each state government is a must. Yes, it is also the most "appropriate" time for the affluent to be more benevolent and express their compassion towards their poverty-stricken fellow humans. For this kindness towards the poor, the rich will surely receive the plentiful blessings from the Almighty.

Incidentally, the prices of the vegetables indicated in many of the national and local newspapers are also a serious concern. The cabbage that was sold at Rs 30 to Rs 40 just three months ago has gone up to Rs. 80. By and large, there is about 100% hike in the prices of green vegetables. But here the question is whether the quoted prices will go directly into the pockets of the vegetable growers. Even if 50% of the mentioned prices go to the poor farmers then we should feel “gratified”. But that will not the case. The major share of the income is usually gobbled up by the middlemen.

The fact that our farmers make their living and how much they toil to grow and bring a few sacks of vegetables to the market for sale is the saga of sweat and tears. While they are at the mercy of “uncertainty”, their future always dicey! On top of that, they are heartlessly exploited by the middlemen.

Now go and visit Garo Hills in Meghalaya and Assam to feel the real pang and anguish of the farming community. The floods have not just washed away their crops but also their dwelling houses and domestic animals. Their condition is beyond imagination. Just a few months back the hurricane almost completely devastated the crops in Ri Bhoi District in Meghalaya in a span of a few minutes. Who will ever think of the tragedy experienced by those aggrieved farmers?

Please note that if our farmers do not pick up "hoes and ploughs," we will surely die out of hunger, regardless of our fat bank balances and fleet of cars. Have we ever thought along those lines? Therefore, we should not regret paying extra, and more extra, to our poor farming community. The generosity towards the poor never goes to waste.