Unwise move

Mumbai has got its first all-women post office. The move has been initiated to tackle the rising crime cases against women. However, I consider this a childish response. Segregation of men and women is not the answer to the problem our country is facing today. It is the warped mindset of people which is causing the trouble. It should change first.

Both men and women should learn to respect each other. There is a need for creation of conditions so that a healthy and mature outlook is developed in life. There is no point increasing the distance between men and women as it will only further aggravate the situation.

RJ KHURANA, Bhopal

Modi’s deft moves

From his recent political movements and public postures, it is clear that Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is determined to project himself as a national leader (editorial ‘Modi and women’, April 10). He has started addressing different segments of society to prove that he is well-versed with the Indian people’s socio-economic problems and their solutions. At selective gatherings, he narrates his state’s success stories. The audience listens to him in rapt attention and cheers him. In fact, his three-time electoral victory has made him dream even bigger.

But Modi has to remember that in politics one has rivals at every step. In a democratic political system, an aspirant has to carry everyone with him. Only an inclusive approach can take Modi to the door of success. The BJP strongman while addressing a gathering at the FICCI Ladies Organisation touched upon issues which could empower the women in general. He deserves appreciation for espousing the cause of women empowerment by emphasising the importance of self-help groups. An inclusive approach in this respect can do wonders. Women must not be discriminated on the basis of their caste or religion. They must be involved in all relevant decision-making processes. The education system must ensure their skill-development by enhancing their knowledge and self-confidence. Their safety at workplaces should be ensured. For a country to charter ahead, it is imperative to instil progressive ideas among women. All political parties must understand and respect this.

SUDESH KUMAR SHARMA, Kapurthala

Ludhiana needs care

Ludhiana, the Manchester of Punjab and the industrial capital of the state, is reeling under neglect. Ludhiana entrepreneurs provide employment to more than 5 lakh people — both skilled and unskilled.  The economy of the state is greatly dependent on Ludhiana’s industrial wheels. The government must take immediate steps to boost the confidence of industrialists. The state Industry Minister’s office should be shifted to Ludhiana so that bureaucrats and the minister concerned are able to have the first-hand account of problems of the industry. A helpline should be started by the department of industry to quickly redress the industrial grievances. An industry ombudsman should also be appointed and posted in Ludhiana. There is also need to strengthen the cluster development programme.

BRIJ B GOYAL, Ludhiana

Save rhinos

There seems to be no let-up in rhino poaching around the globe and our Kaziranga in Assam is no exception.  The animal is hunted for its precious horn. According to wildlife figures, poachers armed with automatic rifles killed 22 rhinos last year. The number has reached 16 already this year. Rhino horn is in a great demand in China and southeast Asia where it is believed to have medicinal properties.  A rhino horn is worth more than gold in these nations. In Veitnam,  widespread  rumors  that  rhino horn  can  cure  cancer  has caused  the  demand  to spike. As a result, the Javan rhino is becoming extinct in that country.

SUNEET SHARMA, Kaithal