Eat home cooked bread with salt and sing hymns in praise of God

Lucknow : Dal Roti Khao, Prabhu Ke Gun Gao. This used to be the chant a few years ago. This does not hold water any more.The reason is simple. Prices of pulses, of all varieties, have skyrocketed. So,it should be now read as: Namak Roti Khao Prabhu ke Gun Gao.

Arhar variety of pulse crop was most popular in the northern region of the country, esppecially Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Prices of this variety were, therefore, first to rise. The rising trend still continues.

Chana was cheaper. So, there was a switch-over. Those who could not afford to buy Arhar dal changed their preference. But the price of this variety too has been rising since the beginning of this month. If market sources are to be believed, it is available at Rs 120 a kilo in as many as 17 states.

It disappeared from the thali of a common man long ago. Gradually, it is not being seen on the meal table of the lower middle class people too.

And the situation is unlikely to change, for, politicians of different hues are indulging in blame game, as usual. The central government holds state governments responsible for the price rise and states throw the blame on the ruling party at the Centre.

The state governments are only empowered to take action against hoarder and they are not fulfilling their obligation. This is what has led to abnormal price rise. It has been Union supply minister's often quoted statements these days.