Punjabi impractical

How will the translation of medical books into Punjabi make it convenient for Punjab students, especially from rural areas, to understand concepts (“Medical books in Punjabi”, November 10)? Such an idea exposes the bankruptcy of thought. To get into a medical college, most of the 10+2 exams and all entrance tests are conducted in English. How will the translation of medical books in Punjabi help medical students understand concepts when they have earlier studied in English? Even if the medical students or nurses learn the medical syllabus in Punjabi, how will they use the equipment, medicines, medical software and lab investigations that are expressed in English? Or, how will they present lectures or research work at national and international fora or write prescriptions in Punjabi? What will happen when doctors and nurses trained in the Punjabi medical books venture out of Punjab? The idea sounds good on paper but is childish when it comes to practical use.

Dr Vitull K. Gupta, Bathinda

Healing touch

In the write-up “Punjabis’ health needs a healing touch” (November 7), the writer has rightly considered several reasons and aspects of the deteriorating health conditions of Punjabis and that of health services of Punjab. Major reasons are the consumption of liquor and drug addiction that have taken away the shine of good health as well as the progressive nature of Punjabis, for which they were once known. All political, social, religious and business leaders, including intellectuals and ‘bajurg’ (elders of the family and community) must rise above politics, regionalism, casteism and factionalism for petty temporary personal benefits. They must act maturely and responsibly to make Punjab free of alcohol and drug addiction.

Er KK Sood, Nangal

Holistic health

The editorial "Holistic health" (November 12) makes some useful points, but mainly from the neoliberalist or commercial standpoint. However, I disagree with the view that “traditional knowledge systems... need to be pushed by scientific research” if this comment is intended to imply that principles and procedures of modern western science be applied to ayurveda. Ayurveda is an altogether different science — valid and time-tested — following an alternative epistemology and methodology and its classical framework needs to be retained in its pure form for further research and development. Indeed, it is a huge error to believe that modern science or medicine is the only correct or proper science.

I would also point out that the attempt to combine ayurveda and modern medicine in BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Science and surgery) courses has misfired. For, the students get good training in neither of the two systems. Quite often, BAMS doctors administer only routine allopathic medicines to their patients. The combination of ayurveda with unani hikmat will make much more sense as they are complementary systems with shared foundations. The two systems should be given equal encouragement.

BHUPINDER SINGH, Patiala

Tackle diabetes

November 14 is celebrated as world diabetes day to mark the birth anniversary of Frederick Bonting, who along with Charles Best, conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1921.

As many as 382 million people are living with diabetes worldwide. By 2035, the figure will reach 592 million or one person in 10 will be having diabetes. A further 316 million people are currently at high risk of developing type-2 diabetes. Among the top 10 countries for the number of people with diabetes (20-79 years), India ranks second with 65.1 million people suffering from the deadly disease. These alarming figures call for urgent action. Diabetes education is of paramount importance to take informed decisions, make behavioural changes and address the psycho-social issues presented by the silent killer disease.

RC DHAND, Bathinda

Kids, dream big

On the occasion of Children's Day, let us hope for a good future with great opportunities for our children. Relationships never die a natural death but are murdered by ignorance, ego and attitude. The children need to stay focused and dream big. They must take risks. Think globally and act locally in these times of globalisation.

Prof Madan Mohan Goel, Kurukshetra

Bridge of music

Vandana Shukla’s article on Begum Akhtar “Fading of a famous voice and ghazal” (November 11) is very authentic. The appreciation of the composite Indo-Pak culture and genius of ghazal is very appropriate. I think music can build bridges between the two countries, which diplomacy has not been able to do.

The great Indian tradition of music draws sustenance from both sides of the fence and it is very important to recognise that. India and Pakistan have a shared parentage of classical tradition.

GS Aujla, via email