Letters to The Editor — May 26, 2025
Centre-State synergy
It is a fact that the Centre's relations with some States have not been cordial ever since the National Democratic Alliance came back to power. Therefore, the Prime Minister's clarion call, at the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting, for synergy between the Centre and the States and to work together 'like Team India' is unlikely to have many takers (Page 1, May 25). If the States are collectively expected to agree to contribute to what the Centre is propounding, the Centre should see to it that the grievances of some States such as sharing central tax returns are addressed at once.
Prabhu Raj R.,
Bengaluru
The Prime Minister's assertion that no goal is impossible if the Centre and States work together as a team is true by all means. But can his government explain how non-National Democratic Alliance State governments are being troubled by the acts of some Governors and the 'misuse' of the Enforcement Directorate and some other central agencies?
These are well known to the nation. Therefore, the Centre must practise what it preaches. Similarly, States should stop the indiscriminate distribution of freebies and avoid an overdependence on the Centre.
A healthy relationship between the central and State governments is vital for national unity and development.
Kshirasagara Balaji Rao,
Hyderabad
Unfortunately, the ground reality is different. There is definitely a chasm between the Centre and Opposition-ruled States for which the Centre is largely responsible.
This arises due to a differential fund allotment and hindrances created by Governors.
The change in attitude is obvious as seen when the Bihar Chief Minister was within and outside the NDA. And who can miss the Centre's 'cosy relations' with the government in Andhra Pradesh.
V.P. Bhaskaran,
Kozhikode, Kerala
Miss World contest
The Miss World organisation will have to go beyond dishing out a routine defence of its systems and environment in light of the 'ethical issues' raised by one of the contestants, Miss World England 2024. Ms. Magee has raised some very troubling practices (May 25).
Saurabh Sinha,
Bhilai, Chhattisgarh
A book in hand
The article, 'With books for company' (Open Page, May 25), took me back to the golden years of the past, where knowledge was gained in silence. Visits to libraries were very frequent and the ambience and the atmosphere were ideal to read, learn and gain knowledge. Libraries taught us the value of silence that could easily translate to concentration — one which is a paramount need for academic success. Sadly libraries are on the decline, and information is sought instantly and then forgotten easily. In the past, a book was a favourite companion during train travel. Today, it is the mobile phone, with nothing to converse about.
Balasubramaniam Pavani,
Secunderabad
The new captain
The selectors have taken a bold decision to appoint Shubman Gill as the captain of the Indian Test cricket team but he will have the onerous task of leading India in challenging times. Shubman should be as bold and assertive in his captaincy as he has been with Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League.
Thomas Palocaren,
Vellore, Tamil Nadu
By handing over the captaincy of the Test matches for India's England tour to Shubman Gill, the selectors seem to have laid the foundation to give the team a permanent captain. He is a reliable player and has displayed his batting prowess. One hopes that he climbs the ladder further and captains all formats of the game.
Arvind Rawal,
Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh
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