Bangladesh, Dec. 2 -- There is a growing concern at farmers' becoming inclined to tobacco cultivation, given the stated stance of the government towards a tobacco-free society. As a principle the stance cannot be argued against, given the now well documented risks of smoking and use of the product. Where the stance is flawed is reflected in the recent rise of prices of essentials with onions taking the centre stage. Farmers are guaranteed fair prices, fertilisers and seeds by the tobacco companies and the end product puts food on the table with savings coming from family involvement in the crop production. Added to that is a health insurance of a kind.
For all the tall talk of alternative crops and support for that, the process hasn't work...