In Sangrur's Chhajli village, business is dull for the local kite shop. Kite flying on Basant Panchami is a centuries-old custom in rural Punjab. "But this year, festivities are low key due to failing crops," said shop owner Raju. The state is seeing a surge in farmer suicides since August. Districts in the cotton belt of Malwa region are worst-hit. Farmer unions claim close to 100 farmers have committed suicide in Sangrur, Bathinda and Mansa.
