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Fighting cyber attacks

The recent “bazooka" cyber attack, described as the most powerful ever seen, has slowed traffic on the Internet, causing access to data, which could affect web browsing and emails.

If cyberspace itself is now a weapon of mass destruction, how can we protect ourselves from an electronic Armageddon? That’s one of the many disconcerting questions raised by a major new report just published in Europe. Cyber crime, cyber terrorism and cyber espionage are not just overused buzzwords in the online world but are the next big threats to our security, say experts.  The unprecedented exodus of people from the North-East, abetted by hate messages, has also opened the debate on issues related to Internet freedom and content regulation.  India, which is looking into the alleged role of Pakistan-based elements in this episode, has blocked over 250 web-sites for orchestrating the online hate campaign.

The recent happenings and impending attacks is a cause of concern as the last two years have seen an explosion of the social media in the country with overwhelmingly young users. It has created fears of a gag on information and expression. 

The Indian IT sector needs to pull up sleeves to thwart these cyber attacks which have targeted government websites too. Websites of even vital installations like the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre have been defaced and there are reports of even the email being compromised at various levels. The global security experts should come on one platform to brainstorm possible solutions to fight this new tech menace.

HARISH DIDO, Ferozepur

IPL not for the poor

Questions are being raised over logic of holding IPL matches in the drought-hit Maharashtra where drinking water has become a scarce commodity. For avoiding wastage of lakhs of litres of water and showing solidarity and sympathy towards the affected people, the matches should be shifted to the venues outside Maharashtra.

It’s just a paradox. On one hand, it will be a carnival-like atmosphere in the country with the IPL kicking off. Celebrities will descend on the venues adding to the glam quotient. A huge amount of money would be spent on this cricketing extravaganza. On other hand, there would be poor oblivious to these celebrations and just worried about how to earn their daily bread. The events like the IPL only serve the rich corporates and greedy politicians.

The format is also ruining our sports culture by pushing further into oblivion all other sports due to the glamour associated with it. It has also harmed the “Gentlemen's game” by robbing it of its technique and art. All those who talk of IPL earnings, a better image for our country are befooling the people. The IPL is not doing any charity for the poor.

HL SHARMA, Amritsar

Vijender in trouble

I was neither surprised nor shocked to hear that Olympic Bronze medallist boxer Vijender Singh took heroin 12 times. It was evident when Vijender refused to give blood sample for examination that there is something he is trying to hide.

Good-looking Vijendra’s Olympic performance has earned him a celebrity status and he is often seen rubbing shoulders with Bollywood stars.

If allegations against the star boxer prove to be true, it will be a huge embarrassment for him and the country. Vijender is a role model for many young boxers and it will be a huge setback to their aspirations.

BIDYUT KUMAR CHATTERJEE, Faridabad

CCE effective RTE tool

Of late, there have been regular write-ups and editorials on the RTE Act-2009 and CCE (Continuous Comprehension Evaluation) being made one of its essential components. CCE is being criticised as the method of easy approach for teachers as well as students. The Tribune report ‘HP House for re-introduction of Class V and Class VIII exams’ (April 2) highlighted the concern raised by the members of the House with one accord.

However, it will be wrong to say that examinations have been completely dispensed with when it comes to elementary classes. Under RTE provisions, out of 100 marks, only 40% weightage is given for CCE — conducted throughout the academic year — and 60% marks are based on written examination. One important provision that is required to be incorporated in the RTE Act is “Retention.” A learner may be retained in the same class for his poor performance. Otherwise, the CCE method is most scientific one, invented for assessing a learner’s levels throughout the year, instead of just three hours evaluation after a complete year. Orientation of teachers is a must and selection of teaching faculty also needs to be carefully done. The idea is to educate a student not just make him a literate.

BR DHIMAN, Hamirpur (HP)