Critics beware

Formulating policies relating to the Indian sugar sector - whether by the new National Democratic Alliance government or the previous United Progressive Alliance government - has always been a tricky issue. With allegations of nepotism flying thick and fast every time a new measure for the sector is announced, the Directorate of Sugar in the Department of Food and Public Distribution has adopted a novel way to shut up detractors. It has put up a plaque right at the entrance of the division saying, "We at the sugar division of the department of food and public distribution are committed to formulation/execution of policies relating to the sugar sector in accordance with the changing needs of stake-holders including sugarcane growers, sugar mills and consumers." The note also addresses any niggling doubts about the quality of output from the department by adding that it "strives to create an environment which continually motivates our personnel to attain higher levels of performance by team work and continued improvement through latest technologies."