A silent resolve, not verbosity

Refer to ‘The rhetoric worsens’; the writer has given a broad view of the prevailing unpleasant geopolitical conditions which affect every Indian citizen in some way. The powers that be should silently, yet decisively, focus on employment so that our youth are not swayed by arms and drug smuggling, violent protests, etc. Wary of the intent of the big powers to fish in troubled waters, India must pre-empt their moves by realigning its policies, keeping geopolitical interests in mind. Public sentiments should be addressed before they escalate. A silent strength should replace rhetoric for upholding stability, security and a strife-free world.

Vijay Kumar Katial, Panchkula

Farmers’ incomes can be enhanced

Refer to ‘Punjab needs a food-processing push’; for decades, the state has focused mainly on the paddy-wheat cultivation cycle, which has led to declining soil fertility, groundwater depletion and stagnant farm incomes. Food processing can offer a viable alternative by diversifying agriculture, reducing post-harvest losses and generating rural employment. By encouraging processing units for fruits, vegetables, dairy and agro-based products, Punjab can significantly enhance farmers’ incomes while creating linkages between farms and markets. The government should facilitate this transformation through incentives, simplified regulations, cold-chain infrastructure and skill development programmes. Public-private partnerships and support for small-scale entrepreneurs can help.

Harjinder Singh Thandi, Mohali

Defying voices of hostility

Refer to ‘Hockey handshake’; the players from India and Pakistan have done what our celebrated cricketers could not. They reminded us that a sport is meant to unite, not divide. Their spontaneous handshakes and high-fives were not just courteous acts but a quiet action signifying courage, defying fear and hostility that have come to shadow every India-Pakistan encounter. The contrast between the two sports is telling: while young hockey players upheld the spirit of the game, cricket has become a spectacle of submission to political sensitivities and populist outrage. The hockey teams showed that dignity, discipline and mutual respect can coexist with fierce competition.

Harsh Pawaria, Rohtak

Gesture of sportsmanship

With reference to ‘Hockey handshake’; the handshakes in Malaysia was a good gesture of sportsmanship. The players did not carry any ill will, hatred or any political message. Hockey is a popular game among Punjabis on both sides of the border, with 70-80 per cent players from Punjab. Punjabis on both sides of the Line of Control have a commonality of culture, language, food, temperament, music, etc. Besides, with Jay Shah as the chairman of the International Cricket Council, the young cricketers would perhaps have been guided by him.

BM Singh, Amritsar

Dheer supported cine workers

Refer to ‘Actor Pankaj Dheer, Mahabharat’s Karna, passes away’; his apt portrayal of an iconic character in BR Chopra's epic TV serial was memorable. The veteran actor said in interviews that he was worshiped as ‘Karna’ in two temples, one in Karnal, Haryana, and another in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. As former chairman of Cine Artiste Welfare Trust and ex-general secretary of the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association, he worked tirelessly for the welfare of TV and cine workers.

Bal Govind, Noida

Use Made-in-India Diwali products

Amid the festival season, it is important to gently remind ourselves to shop locally to be part of India’s growth story. Let’s buy India-made earthen diyas, mirchi lights, Diwali chandeliers, crackers, rangoli colours and decorative items. What better way than this to promote atmanirbharta?

Kirti Wadhawan, Kanpur