To think differently

Agriculture, even today, is central to India as indeed to the economy of South Asia. However, the sector’s increasing ecological footprint on natural resources, extreme dependence on a limited food basket and issues related to nutrient loading, pollution and food safety are raising questions not only about human health but also about the health of the earth’s natural systems. Intellectuals the world over, are daring to think differently, offering solutions that can change perceptions towards growing and eating food. Environmental debates that rage amidst overarching stressors exacerbated by climate change primarily relate to water and land use, biodiversity conservation and interventions such as genetically modified organisms. Fortified food and non-bovine milk too are finding acceptance in this new and emerging movement. Yet another, perhaps more time-tested intervention, is to engage people in organic farming, backyard/terrace farming and encouraging a change in consumer behaviour towards a set of diversified local foods and fair trade. It is with such and more concerns in mind that this issue of Geography and You have been conceived under the guidance of Dr Nafees Meah, IRRI’s representative for South Asia. I am hopeful that this succinct addition to the knowledge commons will help ignite actionable outcomes, especially among young readers, bettering our world. 
Happy reading.