In a letter to the editor, Ravi Sharma from Dhariwal praises the Tamil Nadu government's creation of an all-women police task force, calling it ample recognition that women are a force to be reckoned with despite inherent prejudices and biases. He argues that men should be sensitized to respect women and instil responsible behaviour as civilized citizens. Sharma highlights that women police officers can effectively bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, playing a crucial empathic role where victims feel more comfortable sharing their ordeals.
Criticism of Hasty E20 Ethanol Blending
SS Bhathal from Calgary, Canada, writes that the mistake in introducing E20 blending in India lies in unusual haste, emulating foreign countries without following their norms. Bhathal stresses that consumers should have sufficient facility to use any blend of fuel, including pure petrol, depending on their vehicle type. Car manufacturers need enough time to develop and test prototypes before bringing in E85 fuel. Another concern is the large amount of water consumed in ethanol production, which could be a huge problem in India given dangerously low groundwater levels.
Food Security at Risk from Ethanol Push
Shivcharan Singh Dhillon from Tarn Taran questions whether India can afford to use maize and rice for ethanol production, knowing these are staple foods for many Indians. He warns that this puts food security at risk, imagining a scenario where India may one day have to import rice and maize like crude oil. Dhillon calls for setting priorities right, insisting that policies should be public-centric and not reflect personal interests.
Nutrition Priority Over Ideology in Mid-Day Meals
PS Kaur, by mail, comments on the egg in mid-day meal scheme, noting that it is designed to meet students' calorie needs. Eggs are especially crucial for children from households that cannot afford protein-rich foods. The initiative aims to nourish schoolkids and encourage parents to send them to school, not reflect dietary preferences of contractors or governments. Removing eggs from the menu is bad policy, and Kaur hopes the West Bengal government's eggless meal policy has no political motive.
Challenge for Electorate in Punjab Assembly Elections
Jagvinder Singh Brar from Patiala writes that each voter should be aware of prevailing conditions in the state while exercising the right to vote. The right candidate capable of steering the state toward greater social and economic progress must be elected. People should make informed choices in favour of candidates with proven capabilities who can reverse undesirable trends and practices, notwithstanding visible constraints. The upcoming Punjab Assembly elections hold a special challenge for both political parties and the electorate.
Small Act of Discipline Leads to Lifelong Reading
Harsh Pawaria from Rohtak shares that reading habits often begin with a small act of discipline and gradually shape one's entire life. He read Andy Frisella's motivational journal, which asked people to read 10 pages of a non-fiction book every day. What began as a commitment to complete the challenge soon became a lifelong passion. Daily reading created an appetite for more books, and the convenience of Blinkit's 10-minute delivery has made acquiring books effortless. A single disciplined practice can unlock a lifetime of learning.
