Pump-priming policy

Apropos of ‘Get down to business’ (March 31), it is imperative to accelerate economic activity which has come to a standstill. Undoubtedly, it has caused untold misery among the workers, especially in the unorganised sector. The IMF has forecast a recession in the world economy of the scale of the Great Depression of the 1930s in the US. The good old remedy, as suggested by British economist John Maynard Keynes, is the only solution to pull the economy out of recession. The government can put more money in the hands of the people through pump- priming policy and through autonomous investment to stimulate productive activity and boost private investment. The government has already taken preemptive steps in coordination with the RBI.

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Harjinder Singh Thandi, Mohali

Punjab can show the way

Refer to the editorial ‘Get down to business’ (March 31); we can’t ignore economic and business activities as these are as imperative as a full-fledged fight against the corona pandemic. We have to confront the challenge on both fronts simultaneously. The Punjab Government has taken some initiatives for the restoration of business activities with a few conditions that are impractical for small industrial units. Some relaxations are required for the implementation. Fortunately, only some districts in Punjab have reported positive cases. Isolating these districts, while resuming activities in the rest of the state, can be allowed with proper guidelines. Local manufacturing units can be allowed to operate with liberal help to mitigate the adversities faced by the agrarian sector and the general public. If successful, other states can follow this model.

Deepak, by mail

A rising China

Apropos of the article ‘Training guns at China’ (March 31), there is a narrative in some quarters of the world that China created the virus and intentionally spread it the world over. This narrative can’t be ruled out in its entirety. We know of China’s aspirations to become a global player and a superpower. It has all the credentials like the fastest growing and large economy, largest military might and a technology giant, except democracy, to become a superpower — which is again a challenge to the US. International politics is inherently a game of power. The more power you have, the more you are in a position to dictate terms to the world.

Arun goyal, Dirba

Right time to fix potholes

In today’s circumstances, the roads are sans any traffic. The PWD should seize the opportunity and start repairing potholes and the eroded tarmac. It would be easier and faster now. With minimal trained staff, equipped with proper gear, this job can be accomplished. The personnel of public health and water supply department are already doing their job, unnoticed by the public.

LR Sharma, Sundernagar

Data gives hope

Reference to ‘1K cases in 12 days, lockdown working: Govt’ (March 31); not just lockdown, but all our countrymen are working for the welfare of humanity and society in this crucial time. The data of Covid-19 cases in India is more heartening than that of other countries, and this is because of our alertness and undoubtedly the services of our health staff. Malerkotla’s gurdwara committee serving langar at a madrasa is commendable. It is rightly said, ‘No man can be a patriot on an empty stomach’. We should do what our nation requires today, because this is our moral duty towards our people.

MOHIT MOR, JIND

Penalise for laxity

Reference to the news in Chandigarh about an NRI couple testing positive, it is surprising that the couple did not follow the mandatory protocol. It is a sorry state of affairs how some people behave so lax under such circumstances and do not follow the instructions given by the Government of India. Such people are a risk to the health of their fellow citizens and should be fined the maximum penalty. Foreign countries do it, India should, too.

Amit Kumar, by mail

Stick to advisory

Prevention is, indeed, better than cure. Instead of panic, it is time to protect ourselves wisely. The advisory issued by the government must be followed. We can fight against it only by confining ourselves to our homes and by avoiding people and public places. One wise step can save the life of many. Through a positive, humane approach, we can bring ourselves out of the woods.

Ranjeev kumar, Muktsar

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