L E T T E R S    T O    T H E    E D I T O R

Water on moon is a big discovery

Discovery of water on the moon is undoubtedly one of the greatest discoveries of the present century (article, “Water on moon: What it means for space travel?” by Michael McCarthy and editorial “Water on the moon”, Sept 26). The achievement becomes doubly significant for India, as this has been possible through India’s maiden moon mission, Chandrayaan-1.

The new discovery opens up vast avenues for future development and developing moon as a launching pad for exploration of other planets. This has created a new buzz among the scientific fraternity the world over and can result in many new discoveries that will enrich space exploration.

The ISRO and scientists associated with the moon mission must be lauded for this path-breaking discovery.

Brig H S SANDHU( retd), Panchkula

II

India’s find of water on the moon has been welcomed, but those with a colonial psyche found it a bitter pill to swallow. Many sarcastic comments were reported in international journals. Clearly, for many western researchers, inventions are exclusively their prerogative.

B K CHAUDHARI, Worcestershire, UK

Encourage research Shelley Walia’s article “Towards excellence in research” (Sept 22) was meaningful and assessed different parameters of excellence in research. I support the conviction that while conducting the PhD entrance examination, 50 per cent marks should be set aside for interview. PhD scholars must have the ability to articulate, elaborate and logically connect different threads of their core arguments. Besides, adopting international standards of research in universities, we should discourage parochialism, nepotism and a conservative mindset. Originality of ideas and innovation should be encouraged. Unfortunately, these days, most of our research scholars are woefully lacking. RAJ BAHADUR YADAV, Fatehabad

Global warming

The editorial “Climate change talks” (Sept 25) was thought-provoking. Climate change is a matter of concern. The environment is not restricted to boundaries of different countries. Global warming is increasing day by day due to excessive burning of fossil fuel, deforestation and increased industrialisation.

Though the economy must grow, ecology, too, has to be protected and the harmful effects of carbon emissions have to be negated. So far, little has been done to use renewable sources of energy.

Tackling climate change shoud be a national priority and the Centre must involve NGOs in its environment protection drives.

Capt AMAR JEET KUMAR, SAS Nagar

II

Indeed, India should become a model for the world in promoting environment-friendly economic development. It is high time India made relentless efforts to cut carbon emissions.

India’s survival depends upon adopting clean technologies.

Wind and solar energy projects should be accelerated as thermal power plants are known to  cause cancer. We must opt for  safe alternatives.

Dr RAJNI SHARMA, Jalandhar City

Sugar hoarding

Every now and then, there are reports of seizure of sugar stocks costing crores of rupees.

While the connivance of some politicians cannot be ruled  out, those involved in sugar hoarding should be awarded  exemplary punishment.

INDERJIT WADHWA, Amritsar

Stop reservations

The Fundamental rights guarantee right to equality to all citizens of India, irrespective of race, religion, caste and gender. However, every step towards reservation violates this right.

Reservation issue has become a political tool that is used by political leaders to garner votes, not to bring in equality.

RAVIKA, Dharamshala