Everybody Loves a Good Drought by P. Sainath

“Everybody Loves a Good Drought” is a non-fiction book written by P. Sainath, an Indian journalist and writer. The book was published in 1996 and is considered a seminal work on rural poverty in India. It presents a powerful and critical analysis of the socio-economic conditions prevailing in the country’s rural areas.

Sainath, known for his extensive reporting on rural issues, spent years traveling across various drought-affected regions in India. In “Everybody Loves a Good Drought,” he provides a collection of deeply researched and poignant narratives that highlight the challenges faced by marginalized communities living in poverty.

The book sheds light on the lives of rural villagers, primarily focusing on the repercussions of drought, failed government policies, corruption, and the lack of effective social and economic development. Through personal stories and interviews, Sainath exposes the hardships, struggles, and resilience of the people he encountered, addressing issues such as landlessness, farmer suicides, inadequate access to healthcare and education, and the exploitative systems perpetuated by local power structures.

“Everybody Loves a Good Drought” challenges prevailing notions and stereotypes about poverty and rural life. It highlights the profound disconnect between government policies and the ground reality, offering a scathing critique of the systemic failures and injustices perpetuated by the Indian society and governance.

The book received critical acclaim for its meticulous research, evocative storytelling, and its ability to bring the voice of the marginalized to the forefront. It has been instrumental in raising awareness about the rural agrarian crisis and remains a significant resource for those interested in understanding the complexities of poverty and social inequality in India.