M A I L B A G

Govt should popularise solar energy

Solar energy should be popularised to reduce pressure on other conventional sources of energy like electricity, oil and petrol. The government should show some interest in this regard. Substantial part of the subsidy is allowed for the purchase of solar equipment, but these efforts are neutralised in the absence of easy availability of spare parts and arrangements for service after sale.

The revolution in computer, mobile phones have changed the fate of the country. Similarly, a revolution in the use of solar energy is overdue. Lot of research on a global scale is called for. In any case, such projects would be scrapped if the government does not extend active support.

The agricultural operations can very well be done on solar energy. This will help save huge electric energy. There may be some odd risks for peaceful use of nuclear energy, but no such risks are involved in the use of solar energy.

To begin with, let the government agencies promote the maximum use of solar equipment, where a part of subsidy can be earmarked for sale promotion. Rural unemployed youths can play a major role through door-to-door visits for the sale of solar equipment on commission basis, particularly in villages. This would not only popularise the use of solar energy but also provide employment to the jobless youth. Various service outlets after sale would automatically come up. The present position is bleak. One cannot get even a small spare part in Chandigarh and Panchkula for his solar cooker lying unused for the last two years.

BABU RAM DHIMAN, Pinjore

Water management

Apropos of the news-items "Revive sprinkler system" and "PSEB on load disclosure", the Centre is not implementing Dr Johl's report on crop diversification to conserve underground water. The Punjab government too is not making any effort towards superior water management by popularising the sprinkler system. Nor has it recharged groundwater through artificial means like sinking the charging shafts.

About 10 years ago, a five HP tubewell motor used to irrigate seven to eight acres of land. But today even a 10 HP motor is considered insufficient. This proves that while less than one HP of power was required for an acre every year, now more than double the energy is required.

The PSEB is increasing the load on the existing connections at the rate of Rs 1000 per HP instead of Rs 3000 per HP. Consequently, it is wasting precious energy. It should stop sanctioning additional agriculture load till they deploy improved water management systems like the sprinkler system. This will serve two purposes: power consumption will come down by half and the underground water table will be stabilised.

M.S. GILL, Kokrikalan

Convicted criminals

Apropos of the news item "Convicted MPs, MLAs debarred from contesting poll" is a welcome step. It is expected to meet the Opposition demand for removing the tainted ministers from their posts. When such persons won't contest elections, there is no chance of their being made ministers. And when no tainted person can contest election, there is no question of his or her being made a minister.

Prof P.K. GUPTA, Bathinda