ICC Women's World Cup: No shortcut to success

Apropos of ‘Nuggets in the dust’; hard work, perseverance and tenacity brought success to our women cricketers, not shortcuts. The players are mostly from small towns and rural areas, with a humble background. Since India possesses a demographic dividend with an abundance of talent, it is vital to tap these resources for national progress. Governments both at the Centre and in states need to work out a comprehensive national employment generation plan to create more and more jobs. Political parties, governments and leaders focus their energies on elections instead of national development goals.

Ravi Sharma, Dhariwal

Explore career options in India

With reference to ‘Nuggets in the dust’; the youth who seek to escape poverty by fleeing to foreign shores can take a cue from the champion girls of the Indian women cricket team. The government has started numerous schemes for skill development and job creation, including startups. The youth should avail of them. Jobs have already reduced in dream destinations like the US, Canada and the Europe due to their sluggish economy, nationalistic politics and the fast growth of AI technology. The youth must discover career options within the country, state or village.

KR Bharti, Shimla

Ignoring demographic advantage

Refer to ‘Education the weakest link in Haryana’s story’; private universities in the state cater only to the elite, while public universities suffer from stagnant promotions and delayed appointments of teaching staff, and shrinking funds. The model Sanskriti schools which now follow the CBSE curriculum have sidelined the Haryana Board, leading to their steady decline. The merger of government schools, instead of improving access, has further alienated rural students. Teacher recruitment across various levels has stagnated for years, leaving a surplus of unemployed BEd graduates. The sector has long been marred by corruption. Unless Haryana undertakes urgent structural reform and restores integrity, inclusivity and merit to the education system, its demographic advantage will turn into a social liability.

Harsh Pawaria, Rohtak

Transparency not a mere slogan

Refer to ‘Pawar deal’; the Pune land controversy, involving a firm linked to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s son, exposes deep flaws in political ethics and public accountability. Merely cancelling the deal cannot erase the perception of misuse of power. When those in authority face such allegations, transparency must not remain a slogan, but result in concrete action. Citizens expect the government to uphold its integrity by ordering an impartial probe ensuring that the law applies equally to all, irrespective of position. Genuine accountability, not political shielding, is the true test of democratic governance.

Manya Sawhney, Zirakpur

Change social attitudes

Refer to ‘A disturbing trend’; the growing misuse of laws meant to protect women is worrisome and deserves serious reflection. The deeper malaise lies in our social attitudes, where gender roles are steeped in mistrust. Legal safeguards alone cannot fix this imbalance. Education, awareness and a culture of fairness can ensure that laws empower rather than divide. Protecting women’s rights and preserving justice must go hand in hand — neither should come at the expense of the other.

Avinshiappan Myilsami, Coimbatore

End chaos on PU campus

The ongoing student protest at Panjab University has disrupted academic activities and created unnecessary tension in the campus and outside. While students have the right to voice their demands, prolonged unrest affects both their education and the institution’s reputation. It is imperative that both the university administration and student representatives engage in constructive dialogue to resolve issues amicably. Respecting each other’s views and patience are essential for restoring the sanctity of the institution.

Navdeep Singh, Amritsar