Relax restrictions

Refer to ‘Mindless counting of cases’; the alarm created by the media in the public by announcing the rise in Omicron cases on a daily basis, along with restrictions on the free movement of the public by the administration is uncalled for, as it has been substantiated by medical records that the Omicron virus is mild. Very few cases need hospitalisation and fatalities are rare. Omicron should be treated like other viruses which cause flu-like symptoms, without any serious health issues. A majority of adults in the country have been vaccinated and have developed immunity. Economy, education, employment and other sectors have already suffered a huge blow during the second wave. It would be wise to remove restrictions and let people lead a normal life.

Yoginder Singhal, Ladwa

---

No reason to panic

‘Mindless counting of cases’ has conveyed a relevant message: do not just go by the number of active cases but also by the number of hospitalisation figures and death rate. The residual attacks of the virus may seem a part and parcel of life but that is no reason to let down the guard. This may help us in avoiding an economic slowdown as well as in keeping a check on unnecessary panic among public.

VK Anand, Chandigarh

---

Covid cells in schools

In a research study, the Director, World Bank Global Education, has found that there is no justification in the closure of schools due to Covid-19. The issue needs to be examined in India and if the study is found reliable, schools in India may be operational forthwith after taking full precautions. A separate cell may be established in each school to examine the day-to-day situation and take steps accordingly. Introduction of digitisation as a possible consequence of the pandemic cannot be a substitute for classroom teaching.

S KUMAR, PANCHKULA

---

Political turncoats

Punjab’s 2022 election is witnessing a spate of marriages of convenience. Some political turncoats have even changed multiple parties in less than a few days’ time. This stance of the politicians as well as parties is presenting Punjab in poor light. The Election Commission must look into this drama and take action to rule out the use of money power, if any. These politicians are letting down the people by pushing the state towards political uncertainty rather than resurrecting a robust model of stable democracy for its prosperity.

Brij B Goyal, Ludhiana

---

Unemployment data

Refer to ‘Unemployment in Haryana needs to be addressed’; there is a strong case for data on unemployment. The political leadership should have empathy with the youth who are more a victim of under-employment than unemployment, and are compelled to work on lower wages even in jobs for the highly educated. Education in tune with NEP 2020 is vital to encourage creativity, innovation and critical thinking along with human values and ethics.

MM Goel, Gurugram

---

Need more jobs

Educational hubs in Haryana are producing a number of educated youth who are likely to take up only odd jobs and sell their land for livelihood or settle abroad. Educated youth with a strong financial background look for ‘cash-for-job’ opportunities, and those who are hand-to-mouth are left in the lurch. Thousands of dreams get shattered.

Devina Badhwar, Rohtak

---

Grain basket

Refer to ‘Nation’s nutrition security hinges on Punjab’; Punjab had a crucial role in filling India’s grain basket in the past and it still continues to do so. The demand for organic cereals, pulses and vegetables is on the rise due to the rampant use of pesticides. Crop diversification along with MSP on diversified crops can be a solution. But the state is making out the cause that because of its depleted finances, it cannot share the cost incurred on crop diversification. All these are matters that need proper deliberations. Punjab has developed a great mandi system for procurement though which is not the case in many other parts of the country.

AMANDEEP ARORA, PATIALA

---

Djokovic will be missed

Djokovic’s absence will be felt at the Australian Open (‘Slammed out: Djokovic loses appeal, deported from Australia’). World No. 1 Djokovic had grabbed headlines ever since he landed in Melbourne to play the Australian Open. Knowing that he was unvaccinated and had tested positive recently, the authorities were right in not giving him an entry visa. The awkward drama could have ended there and then. Whether the decision on Djokovic sets a precedent in other sports remains to be seen. Irrespective of how this point has been reached, Djokovic is still a champion and fans will miss his absence.

Gregory Fernandes, Mumbai

---

Letters to the Editor, typed in double space, should not exceed the 200-word limit. These should be cogently written and can be sent by e-mail to: [email protected]