WORLD'S HUNGRY REACH RECORD 1 BILLION

WORLD FOOD AID AT 20-YEAR LOW,
1 BILLION HUNGRY-WFP

LONDON - (Reuters) - The number of hungry people has passed a record one billion this year at the same time that food aid is at a 20-year low, the United Nations World Food Programme said in London. The UN agency explain that Food aid is at a 20-year low despite the number of critically hungry people soaring this year to its highest level ever, the United Nations relief agency said on Wednesday. The number of hungry people will pass 1 billion this year for the first time, the UN World Food Program (WFP) said, adding that it is facing a serious budget shortfall.

Millions have been buffeted by the global financial downturn, their ability to buy food is limited by stubbornly high prices. The WFP says it will have to cut services worldwide. It said it is reaching just one-fifth of needy people in Bangladesh, who have been hit by rising food prices, and half of Kenyans who need help coping with drought. In addition, unpredictable weather patterns are causing more weather-related hunger. Of particular concern are the needs of pregnant and lactating women and children under the age of two.

WHAT DO THE VEDIC TEACHINGS TELL US?

A bonafide-surrendered soul has got no worries as he has got firm belief - Sri Krisna will protect and sustain him under all circumstance. This world is the Prison-House for the punishment of those culprits who are averse to Sri Krisna. This is not the place of our permanent stay. We lose nothing if any of our desires is not fulfilled. Love of Krisna will go with us, everything else will remain here. The root cause of our afflictions is forgetfulness of our relation with Sri Krishna. So to eradicate the root of the sufferings- three fold affilictions, we should submit ot Sri Krishna completely and unconditionally.

Srila Bhakti Ballabh Tirtha Maharaja:
"Life & Teachings" - Published on April 21 2002