Opening up other trade avenues

Refer to ‘Balancing trade’: India’s response to tough US tariffs reflects a careful balancing act. The amendment to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act may open the nuclear energy domain to private sector investment and operation, exemplifying India’s long-term vision. By aligning with US interests in nuclear energy, India can not only address immediate economic challenges but also strengthen its global standing. This shift has the potential to attract substantial investments in the energy sector, which could benefit both the economy and geopolitical relations. Nevertheless, India must ensure that its domestic policies strike a balance between protecting local industries and enhancing international competitiveness.

Sanjay Chopra, Mohali

Opportunity for India

With reference to ‘Balancing trade’; the US has always prioritised its interests. ‘Made in USA’ once symbolised unmatched quality and craftsmanship, but over time, European, Japanese and now Chinese industries have taken the lead in multiple sectors. Today, America’s dominance is largely confined to defence manufacturing. For India, this shift presents not just a challenge but a unique opportunity. By accelerating investment in R&D, strengthening infrastructure and building a robust manufacturing ecosystem, India can position itself as a global export leader. Focusing on innovation, skilled labour and competitive pricing, the country can reduce its dependence on imports and establish itself as a key player in global trade. The world is evolving rapidly; the time to act is now to shape India’s economic future.

K Kumar, Panchkula

Misuse of taxpayers’ money

Apropos of ‘Punjab Govt withdraws Majithia security’; the huge security cover provided to politicians and their immediate family members in India is a blatant misuse of taxpayers’ money. Contrast this with Western democracies where leaders move with minimal or no security unless genuinely at risk. Useless expenditure drains public funds, diverts security forces from duty of protecting the common man and fosters VIP culture. Public funds are meant to serve the people, not pamper politicians.

Balbir Singh Kakkar, Jalandhar

Nations reach out to Myanmar

The Myanmar quake has distressed the whole world. Without any delay, India again initiated the first response. Other countries like China, US, Vietnam, South Korea and Thailand also reached out to Myanmar in its hour of need. It is a good sign that regional powers are providing assistance and humanity is still alive in this turbulent world order. The destruction from the earthquake is massive and requires immediate rescue and restoration. A single hand of help becomes a ray of hope for many. The country’s ruling class and the masses need to get their act together.

Kirti Wadhawan, Kanpur

Unstable Pakistan worrisome

Refer to ‘Pakistan’s crisis is South Asia’s crisis’; our neighbour’s ongoing crises — economic instability, political turmoil and security threats — have profound implications for South Asia. As a key regional player, its instability exacerbates cross-border tensions, disrupts trade and fuels extremism. Taliban’s resurgence and perpetually strained India-Pakistan ties worsen security concerns. Economic downturns impact regional markets, while internal strife weakens SAARC’s cooperation efforts. An unstable Pakistan will heighten geopolitical rivalry between China and the US. Thus, Pakistan’s crises are not isolated but reverberate across South Asia, deepening regional uncertainty.

Sikandar Bansal, Shimla

Changing names doesn’t help

With reference to ‘The name game’; changing Muslim names of places is not a worthwhile exercise because it is not going to change anything at the ground level. Rather, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Dhami should concentrate on pressing issues which warrant his attention. He should focus on environmental challenges, healthcare and infrastructure. Polarisation may earn him a few brownie points with his party’s top brass, but in the larger scheme of things, he stands to lose.

Bal Govind, Noida

Letters to the Editor