China-Taliban nexus

Apropos of ‘Mayhem by the Taliban’, the influence of China in Afghanistan is increasing by the day. So much so that it now claims to be the right ‘guarantor of security’ in the region, as per a recent article in the Global Times. Even Pakistan had demurred from being that. What gives traction to the moves of China is its clout with the Taliban. They call China a friend. The rising vulnerability of the neighbouring countries in the region gives it a further push. It is, therefore, attaching a lot of significance to the visit of the Chinese foreign minister to Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. While providing ‘financial and technical help’ to these countries, it is only promoting its Belt and Road Initiative to connect with Eurasia.

Lt Col GS Bedi (retd), Mohali

Checking population

It is heartening to learn that after Assam, now the country’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, has announced its intent to formulate a new policy to control the ever-increasing population (‘No govt job or subsidy if more than 2 kids, can’t fight local elections: UP draft bill’). Undoubtedly, the scary size of population has in itself become an environmental hazard as it requires over-harnessing of the limited natural resources. Steps to control population are needed and should be welcomed. Hopefully, a rational and uniformly applicable law will be in place in UP soon that may become a reference model for other states and union territories to follow.

Krishan Kant Sood, Nangal

Not class-specific

Apropos of ‘Population measures won’t be class-specific, says Yogi’, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken a step in the right direction by introducing a legislation to control population explosion. It is a fact that illiteracy and poverty lead to population growth and create obstacles in the path of progress. This is not confined to any particular religion or section of society. It has a negative impact on the health of women too.

Upendra Sharma, by mail

Big three in tennis

Refer to ‘Djoker rules the pack’; by winning the Wimbledon 2021, Novak Djokovic has finally caught up with his great rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal with 20 Grand Slam titles. The big three are well past their 30s, but among them, they have won a staggering 60 Grand Slams, and are still a force to reckon with. They have reached dizzying heights in men’s tennis and still have utmost respect for each other, showing the world a perfect model of sportsmanship among rival stars. No doubt, they will go down in tennis history as not only the best players of their generation, but also possibly the best of all time.

Ranganathan Sivakumar, Chennai

Vaccine phobia

A drastic and profound change has been brought about by the pandemic in the lives of people. The virus can be tackled with vaccination, which is proving to be a difficult task because of underlying misconceptions. India seems to be the only country where vaccination has not picked up the desired pace unlike in the US, UK and Canada where almost half of the population has been vaccinated and is prepared for a plausible third wave. Awareness needs to be created for this. The WHO and AIIMS should also assure citizens of safety.

Simranjeet Kaur by mail

Tragic deaths

Reports of more than 50 deaths on Sunday due to lightning in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are unfortunate. In this season of heavy rains, cloud bursts and fierce storms, much care and caution need to be exercised. One should not stay in open, near poles and tall trees, but take shelter in good buildings. Lightning conductors must be checked for proper functioning. Tragic deaths impact families, which should be prevented.

Subhash Vaid, New Delhi

Kanwar yatra

This is with reference to the report, ‘Dhami holds off on Kanwar Yatra decision’. It is imperative that the Uttarakhand CM comes up with a logical decision. The Kumbh Mela facilitated the second wave of the pandemic and another such large-scale congregation will certainly lay the ground for an anticipated third wave. Ideally, the government ought to do away with the yatra keeping in mind the turmoil the country has been witnessing.

Aanya Singhal, Noida

Pension too little

Pension pertaining to old age, widows, destitute and the handicapped should be increased to a minimum of Rs 1,500 at this time of soaring prices and the pandemic. The monthly meagre amount of Rs 750 is not enough. Welfare of the underprivileged is important during these times.

CP Sharma, Solan

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