Explain the controversy related to seed suicides by poor Indian farmers.

The controversy surrounding "seed suicides" among poor Indian farmers revolves around the phenomenon of farmers facing financial distress and indebtedness due to the adoption of genetically modified (GM) seeds, particularly cotton, and subsequent crop failures. Here's a brief explanation:

1. Introduction of GM Seeds: In the late 1990s, multinational corporations introduced genetically modified cotton seeds, such as Bt cotton, in India. These seeds were marketed as offering higher yields and reduced need for pesticides, promising increased profits for farmers.

2. High Initial Costs: GM seeds come with significantly higher upfront costs compared to traditional seeds. Farmers often had to borrow money to purchase these seeds, along with associated inputs like fertilizers and pesticides.

3. Dependency on Seed Companies: Once farmers adopted GM seeds, they became dependent on seed companies for subsequent purchases, as GM seeds typically do not produce viable seeds for replanting. This dependence on external seed sources increased farmers' vulnerability to market fluctuations and price hikes.

4. Crop Failures and Debt Traps: Despite the initial promise of higher yields, many farmers experienced crop failures due to factors like pest resistance, inadequate irrigation, or adverse weather conditions. Coupled with the high costs of GM seeds and inputs, failed harvests plunged farmers into debt traps, exacerbating poverty and financial distress.

5. Allegations of Exploitation: Critics argue that multinational seed companies exploit vulnerable farmers by promoting GM seeds without adequately informing them about the risks or providing necessary support and infrastructure. Some activists and advocacy groups have labeled these suicides as "seed suicides," attributing them to the pressures and burdens imposed by corporate-driven agricultural practices.

6. Debate over Solutions: The controversy surrounding seed suicides has sparked debates over agricultural policies, farmer welfare, and the regulation of GM crops in India. Advocates of traditional farming methods and agroecology call for greater support for sustainable, farmer-centered approaches, while proponents of biotechnology emphasize the potential benefits of GM crops in addressing food security and agricultural productivity.

The issue of seed suicides highlights the complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, agricultural practices, and corporate interests in India's farming communities, prompting calls for comprehensive policy reforms to address the root causes of farmer distress and promote sustainable livelihoods.