1.  Explain why nearly 500,000 Indian farmers in the state of Mizoram are facing the prospect of famine.  Be specific.

2.  In what years have similar famines been recorded?

3.  What is the local government doing to avoid the impending famine?

4.  Even if the rat population is controlled, why will food supplies still be greatly reduced in Mizoram?

5.  a) How will the central government help to avoid a famine in Mizoram?
b) Why will the central government be able to provide better aid than in previous plague years?