Rising Suicides, Hunger, and Pollution: Warning for India
Dharamshala (Arvind Sharma) May 29, 2025
Former Chief Minister and Union Minister Shanta Kumar has expressed deep anguish over the tragic suicide of seven members of a single family in Panchkula, reportedly due to a financial crisis. The deceased included three generations—parents, their parents, and their three children. Terming the incident as a “soul-shaking tragedy,” Shanta Kumar said it reflects a grim reality of growing economic distress in the country.
Citing alarming statistics, through a press note ,he said, “Last year, 1.87 lakh people died by suicide in India, including 15,000 students. India ranks highest in the world in terms of suicides, despite being among the four richest countries globally. Yet, paradoxically, it is home to the largest number of poor and hungry people.” He attributed this contradiction to stark economic inequality, calling it “shocking, disturbing, and mind-boggling.”
Referring to the Global Hunger Index, he highlighted that crores of Indians continue to live in hunger. “This national shame can be eradicated if Prime Minister Narendra Modi fully implements the Antyodaya Yojana launched in 1977. The slogan ‘Modi hai toh Mumkin hai’ can be realized in its true spirit,” he added.
Turning his attention to India’s rising population, Shanta Kumar said, “From 35 crore in 1947 to 141 crore today, the unchecked population growth has led to deforestation, housing pressure, the rise of sand mafias, traffic congestion, and severe air pollution—turning the national capital into a gas chamber and giving rise to diseases like cancer.”
He pointed out that countries like China have successfully controlled population growth and questioned why India cannot follow suit. “Had India’s population been capped at 100 crore, we would not be facing today’s levels of poverty and unemployment,” he asserted.
Despite these challenges, Shanta Kumar said he remains optimistic about the country’s future under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “A new, prosperous, and powerful India is taking shape. Initiatives like Operation Sandur have enhanced India’s global image. I believe PM Modi will soon take strong measures to curb the population explosion, which in turn will resolve many pressing issues,” he concluded.
