II

Mr Sibal deserves praise for his new initiative. Uniform science and maths curriculum for students of Class XI and XII across the nation is a welcome step. The need for a national level common entrance test for professional courses too had been felt since long. It would be better to have common syllabus in professional education too.

Air Cmde RAGHUBIR SINGH (retd), Pune

III

Uniform maths ands science syllabus for Class XI and XII and a national level single entrance test for courses in engineering and medicine are steps in the right direction. The move will not only reduce stress on students’ minds but also help students whose parents are in transferable jobs. There is an urgent need to bring uniformity in the syllabus of other subjects as well.

MANA FEROZEPURI,  Ferozepur City

IV

Uniform maths and science curriculum and single entrance test on the pattern of Scholastic Aptitude Test of the US are appreciable initiatives. Still, the issue needs to be debated and all its pros and cons should be weighed before the decision is implemented.

KAMALJIT MALWA, Mansa

Indo-Pak dialogue

It goes to the credit of the Indian leadership that it has not stuck to a rigid stand (HK Dua’s front-page editorial, “The importance of taking a small step”, Feb 10). However, it should not be construed as a weakness of any sort.

The leaders of both sides ought to act wisely and desist from scoring brownie points.

There should be a clear understanding of the issues involved. Shrill noises and ignorance lead nowhere.

Mr Dua has aptly stated: “Also, it will be incorrect to view that offering talks amounts to giving a concession to Pakistan. Talks do not mean giving up the Indian position on any major issue; they are aimed at resolving differences.”

IQBAL SINGH, Bijhari (Hamirpur)

II

The editorial is praiseworthy. It is in the right spirit to continue bilateral talks between India and Pakistan yet these talks should be conditional and Pakistan must be asked to take firm action against terrorists operating from its soil. Though India should endeavour to have good relations with its neighbour, no compromise should be made on the issue of terrorism.

SK MITTAL, Panchkula

III

Mr Dua has rightly stressed the importance of a small step taken by India for a fresh dialogue with Pakistan. Surely adamant stance, unending distrust, hatred and scepticism are detrimental to peace. Even a small but timely step is symbolic.

OP COUSHIK, Kurukshetra

One rank, one pension

The government had accepted the long-pending demand of “one rank, one pension” for ex-servicemen below officers’ rank, last year and the Finance Minister had announced the decision in Parliament. The announcement has not since been honoured and the Finance Ministry in this regard has not issued requisite notification to departments concerned. The inordinate delay is causing anxiety among the ex-servicemen.

I request the authorities to take necessary action in the matter and also look into the similar demands of retired officers.