M A I L B A G

High time to combat polio

The polio scenario in the country is cause for concern. Despite numerous immunisation campaigns, New Delhi has witnessed yet another case of polio and this time, it is proving to be fatal.

The government should explore the varied options to combat polio. Incorporation of Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) in the National Immunisation Schedule is the best possible solution. Since we have also received grants from both Rotary and Gates Foundation, the government can make best use of it, as WHO and other health experts from IAP and other institutions have also discussed about IPV leading to greater immunity over OPV and eradication of polio in the long run.

Moreover, we must impart knowledge to the general public on polio and measures to fight it. It’s time to act and make the correct choice that would make our country polio free.

PRIYADARSHINI GUPTA, New Delhi

II

Despite being given overdoses of OPV, why do children still suffer from polio? We need to explore and make use of other viable possible solutions, if current measures like the OPV are not effective enough in combating this crippling disease.

The government would do well to remember that there is a pressing need to give way to the use of IPV which other polio-free nations have been harping upon. If we want to protect our children from this deadly disease, we need to make a right choice and make it fast.

KONKONA BASU, New Delhi

Primary schools

Very recently, Dr P.S. Chanana, expert on primary education, has stressed the need for employing B.Eds in primary schools. This merits serious consideration. Though primary education is the foundation of education, it is the most neglected stage. To build up a sound base, the government should send highly qualified teachers to primary schools, improve curricular offerings and provide necessary infrastructure.

The funds will be available if there is a strong political will and bureaucratic support to improve schools in rural areas. Let there be no short cuts. Some of the existing elementary teacher training institutions may be closed and others converted into in-service education centres. It will also be necessary to make changes in the B.Ed curricula to suit the elementary education programme.

SHUCHI, Samana

Example to follow Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam recently urged teachers to impart moral education. In this context, he referred to Sister Antonia’s role in checking a prison riot in Mexico. The Sister showed love and compassion for the prisoners which ultimately resulted in a happy ending of the stalemate. Her love moved the rioters and generated respect for her. On October 2, we celebrated International Non-Violence Day to mark Gandhiji’s birth anniversary. Violence of all kinds can be eliminated if Gandhiji’s teachings on non-violence are followed earnestly. RIKHI DASS THAKUR, Palbhu (Hamirpur)