So what is the solution? There are three aspects, and the solutions are all related to policy support for new technology usage. First, we need to increase general productivity levels in agriculture and food crops in particular. This will ensure that farmers earn more and consumers pay less. Second, we need to continuously look for other sources of energy that do not require combustion — solar, nuclear, wind and perhaps geo-thermal appear to be the only scalable and sustainable sources in the long run. Third, bio-fuels can also be gotten from cellulose and algae — these sources will have far lower consequences on food availability.

Of the above the last two developments are some years away. It is increased productivity that is the most achievable. The technology exists, the seeds exist, the inputs exist, the markets exist, the ability exists; all we need to do is put them together. India has enough land to service the requirements of both the sectors — food and energy — significantly. But it somehow is just not willing to invest in its farmers and their farms.

The writer heads the economic research firm, Indicus Analytics

laveesh@indicus.net