Meghalaya’s firm measures

Refer to ‘Hope takes root in Meghalaya’; every government, whether at the Centre or the state, must focus on two basic parameters of good governance — health and education. This northeastern state is providing good healthcare to the public but lagging behind in quality education, which is a matter of concern. A decline in the maternal mortality ratio from 243 to 107 in a couple of years is laudable. Likewise, there has been a significant decrease in infant mortality. Such achievements are the outcome of firm, consistent measures. But the rise in HIV cases is worrisome. The Meghalaya government should keep up the good work to become a role model for other states in the region.

Raj Kumar Kapoor, Ropar

Govt can cash in on Tesla’s entry

Refer to ‘Tesla in India sets off affordability debate’; the Elon Musk-run automobile company has presented a win-win situation to luxury brand buyers and the Central Government. In India, there is no shortage of high-end buyers, though for the majority of the Indians, even an ordinary car is unaffordable. Tesla cars will sell like hot cakes here. It will help the government collect taxes, which it can then spend on subsidising public transport services like electric buses. There is no shortage of Indian cars at affordable prices for the public. Tesla cars are like a drop in the ocean.

Ashok Kumar Goel, Panchkula

Beijing eyes strategic control

Apropos of ‘Chinese dam’; the construction of the world’s largest dam near the Arunachal border raises serious concerns for India and Bangladesh. While China claims clean energy to be its purpose, the project signals strategic control over transboundary waters. The dam will allow Beijing to regulate water flow, affecting agriculture, hydropower and flood patterns downstream. Inundation can pose serious environment and security risks. India must respond diplomatically and demand transparency. China’s dam diplomacy is not just about energy, it’s about asserting power.

RS Narula, Patiala

China’s water weapon

Refer to ‘Chinese dam’; the construction of the $167.8-billion mega dam on the Brahmaputra near Arunachal Pradesh is a brazen assertion of hydro-strategic dominance. By bypassing consultations with downstream nations, Beijing has signalled its intent to control water flow affecting millions in India and Bangladesh. The risk of either drought or floods in Arunachal and Assam is very real. Expecting China to heed to India’s concerns is futile. New Delhi must expedite measures to forestall any threat from this dam.

Chanchal S Mann, Una

Hold meaningful debate

The monsoon session of Parliament promises to be a stormy affair. On the first day itself, the Congress did not allow the House to function, with four adjournments during the day. They were seeking a debate on Op Sindoor. The Opposition is prepared to raise pressing issues related to national security, electoral transparency and foreign affairs. The government must allow meaningful debate. However, the Opposition must also use this platform constructively. Instead of resorting to constant disruptions and walkouts, it should ensure that discussions remain focused, informed and respectful. National interest must prevail over political one-upmanship. Citizens expect their leaders to debate, dissent and decide.

Rukma Sharma, Jalandhar

Registration of kanwariyas

Apropos of ‘Kanwariyas create ruckus at Bastara toll plaza on NH-44’; the actions of a few hooligans tarnish the sanctity of this pious journey. In recent years, lawlessness and violence during the yatra have become increasingly common. To preserve the sacred nature of the Kanwar Yatra and prevent its desecration by anti-social elements, a robust mechanism is urgently needed. It would be appropriate that participants be registered, as done by those who undertake the Amarnath Yatra. This will help identify and weed out criminal elements.

Ramphal Kataria, Kurukshetra

Letters to the Editor