II

The deterioration and the degeneration of various organs of the polity due to pervasiveness of corruption has reached an alarming level. It is a pity that merit is ignored in the selection of doctors who are to take care of the health of the populace.

It is a sad state of affairs that the institutions entrusted with bringing the best talent to fore have been reduced to “auction houses” that “sell” posts. If this trend continues a dismal and dark future awaits India. I hope there is a public outcry that would force proper action.

S C CHABBA, Patiala

III

The report has pointed out the malaise in the process of selection adopted by the PPSC. It is clear that all procedures were thrown to wind. Undoubtedly the interviews were a sheer farce. Is it possible to interview 45 doctors in 40 minutes?

Capt SK DATTA, Abohar

Food security

Abhijit Bhattacharyya has rightly analysed the food security situation in our country in his article “Food security in peril” (March 6). The data presented clearly indicates that the fertile land is rapidly diminishing with the increase in population. Concrete steps must be taken to ensure food security.

Dr JAI PRAKASH GUPTA, Ambala Cantt

Shed blind faith

The world has made great advancements in technology but on the other hand even the educated people have not yet shed their superstitious beliefs. Today it seems that the easiest and the quickest way to become rich is to start your own religion. This is what many sants and babas are doing. Sadly, many of us follow them blindly. It is time to shed superstitious beliefs and open our eyes and mind.

RAMESHINDER SINGH SANDHU, Amritsar.

Price rise

The prices of all essential commodities, including foodgrains, are rising (editorial, “Politics of price rise: Centre and states to blame”, March 8). The government has failed to take action to arrest skyrocketing prices. The Central and state governments should work together against the hoarders. Necessary food items should be imported.

The ruling party and the Opposition should work out a strategy to alleviate the suffering of the common man who has to bear the brunt of rising prices.

M L GARG, Chandigarh

Coaching culture

The idea of setting up National Assessment Council is worth serious consideration (article, “Bihar coaching institutes court controversy” by Uttam Sengupta, March 3). Such a council can develop tests designed to assess the aptitude and understanding of the students.

These tests can be conducted every month or offered online throughout the year so that students can pay small fee at any time of their liking and test their own aptitude, skill and preparedness. Online guidance and instructions can also help students to prepare for competitive exams while sitting at home, eliminating the necessity of coaching institutes. This will also provide an equal opportunity to both urban and rural students.

J P GARG, Chandigarh

Women power

The editorial “Quota for women” (March 1) has rightly pointed out the role of women power. It is true that God has gifted women with more tolerance, patience and an ability to face challenges. Yet they face discrimination in every sphere of life. Women have to struggle hard to create a niche in the male dominated society. It has been proved that if women are provided opportunities they can outshine men in any field of life.

It is the moral duty of all MPs to join hands to pass the Women’s Reservation Bill without any further delay in order to empower women. With the passage of the Bill women will certainly play an important role in the overall development of the country.

NIRANJAN SINGH, Chandigarh