Dismal findings

Refer to ‘Nurseries for second-class citizens’ (Nous Indica); it is a paradox that on the one hand, we have students who obtain 100 per cent marks in Classes X and XII, but on the other, we have numerous students who don’t even know the basics of language and mathematics. Children are glued to their mobile phones rather than their books. The latest ASER survey rings alarm bells about the quality of education, especially in rural India. In the previous ASER report, the poor learning outcomes had been attributed to the Covid pandemic and the consequential online teaching. But who should be blamed now? Quality education can be imparted only by sincere and capable teachers selected through the State Public Service Commission, rather than through backdoor appointments.

KR Bharti, Shimla

Improve teaching standards

Apropos of ‘Nurseries for second-class citizens’; the writer is right in asserting that schoolteachers, education department officials and politicians are to blame for the sorry state of education. They rarely send their children to government schools. The ASER survey shows that our education system is rotten to the core. Many students are unable to read and write simple English sentences because they are not taught properly. Maths teachers use tech tools to make calculations. If India wants to be a vishwaguru, we have no option but to drastically improve the teaching standards in government schools, especially in rural areas.

Ramesh Gupta, Narwana

Over-the-counter antibiotics

Refer to ‘Antibiotic overuse’; drug-resistant pathogens develop due to the overuse or misuse of over-the-counter antibiotics, antifungals and antivirals. Many of these drugs are not prescribed by authorised medical practitioners but are obtained through interactions between consumers and chemists. This informal practice contributes to the growth of the pharmaceutical industry. The well-known nexus between doctors and pharmaceutical companies also plays a role. Ultimately, strict enforcement of laws is crucial to curbing this risky practice. Consumers must be educated about the importance of obtaining prescription only from authorised medical practitioners to ensure their safety.

Deepak Taak, Panchkula

Avoid risky excursions

Refer to ‘Boat tragedy’; such tragedies continue to happen in the absence of remedial action. The customary constitution of an inquiry committee is an eyewash. Stakeholders of waterways tourism persistently flout safety norms and ignore the standard operating procedures as regular checks are not conducted. Schools/colleges organising excursions must avoid risky rides. The suspects are likely to go unpunished due to ‘lack of evidence’. Display boards should be placed at prominent locations, highlighting safety norms, boat capacities and the availability of life jackets/life-saving guards. There is a need to punish the erring persons exemplarily for their lapses.

Wg Cdr JS Minhas (retd), Mohali

Parole to Ram Rahim

The Haryana Government has released Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, a rape-murder convict, on a 50-day parole. This release is the second in less than two months and the seventh in the past two years. It is apparent that there is one set of laws for the influential and another for the common man in this country. Justice has not been delivered in this case even after a trial that lasted several years. It is disheartening to witness such travesty of justice.

IPS Anand, Chandigarh

High representation of women

The upcoming Republic Day parade will be led by 100 women artistes playing Indian musical instruments instead of traditional military bands. The event will have high representation of women, including in the Indian Air Force flypast. This shows that women are progressing in step with the nation’s strides. Their induction demonstrates inclusive growth and development in the country, showcasing India’s talent.

Rukma Sharma, Jalandhar

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