Learn history from novels

In her write up “Reviving mystique of the Mughals” (December 15), Vibha Sharma has written about the changing trend in novel writing by some of the contemporary novelists. Their novels are by and large based on the themes of the Mughal history. Thus, they have tried to give different colours and hues to their ideas, their perceptions and above all, their imagination to make the novel reading more fascinating and interesting. I personally feel that it is a healthy sign in novel writing as it can go a long way in popularising the concept of learning history among different sections of our society.

We must understand to differentiate between novel and history writing. Both are not the two sides of the same coin as their purpose is different. Fiction is, by and large, based on one’s personal ideas, experiences and imagination while history on the other hand is both factual and objective in nature. Its ultimate goal is to find the truth through the process of collection, verification and interpretation of facts.

ARUN KUMAR SHARMA, Mohali

(Un) Fair usage policy

The broadband “fair usage policy” (FUP) seeks to provide best internet experience to all customers in a transparent manner. The internet service providers (ISPs) claim a very small number of customers use excessive amount of network bandwidth, which impairs the experience of others. However, the same ISPs are providing additional broadband data/GBs on a chargeable basis once the customers cross the FUP limit. When a large number of netizens face problem in using internet, ISPs must not allow additional data at any costs.

The TRAI and the DOT, instead of taking stern action against the ISPs, are mere mute spectators. They are allowing ISPs to extract money from consumers by using unfair means. ISPs should be penalised or the FUP will become “unfair usage policy”.

MEERA JHANGIANI, New Delhi

Need promotion? Clear UPSC

Apropos news item “Upgrade to IAS” (December 25), upgradation in policy and norms for ennoblement of state civil services officers to all-India services by the Ministry of Personnel is gratifying. Due to change in transactional phase to transformational phase, changes made in norms are a must to set apart bureaucracy from muddling politicisation. It will provide opportunity to brilliant, hardworking, enthusiastic, honest officers to step-up brisk work by cracking the UPSC exam for their promotions from state cadre civil servant to all-India services, including the IAS, IPS, IFS. Earlier, it used to take more than 20 years after serving the state to come in all-India services. It also provides them an opportunity to serve in their own state. Hence officers will get more openings to serve for years with more authority. Weightage provided per section is also tempting. I would suggest that the time bond be reduced to the age of 40 from 54 years.

NIKHIL SHARMA, Bilaspur