The recent irrational statement of Ramdev against allopathy has exposed the rivalry between the two systems of medicine. In an era of evidence-based medicine, any system of medicine must be based on evidence and research, and all medicines, whether allopathic, ayurvedic, unani or homoeopathic, should undergo human trials to prove their efficacy and side-effects before being used as treatment modalities approved only by the ICMR. We should learn from the Chinese who have integrated the modern and traditional system of medicine. Instead of issuing obnoxious statements or 25-point letters, people like Ramdev should prove the usefulness of their medicines. And those making false claims to mislead people should be immediately arrested and prosecuted.

Vitull K Gupta, Bathinda

Businessman baba

The shrewd tycoon, Baba Ramdev, firstly spewed venom and later cleverly twisted his derogatory remarks after he was rapped by the Health Minister. Should a man of his fame harbour such views and mentality? He is nothing but a yoga trainer who has been often unduly appreciated by various ministers. Making use of his political connections, every now and then, he tries to fool the masses for his own gains. He is all for ayurvedic formulations, not because he is a highly qualified and experienced ayurvedic doctor or a herbal scientist, but because he is successfully running a huge ayurvedic empire.

Sunil Chopra, Ludhiana

Admonishment not enough

Ramdev has spoken lowly against the medical fraternity which has been fighting the Covid pandemic since last year and has saved lakhs of people, even though they had to make many sacrifices in the line of duty. Ramdev is known for illogical statements. He has insulted the medical fraternity. The government should take stern action against him to boost the morale of doctors and other medical staff. Simple admonishment by the health minister is not enough.

Manjit Singh, Ludhiana

Sustainable farming

Refer to ‘Innovation is the key to tackling agrarian crisis’; the Centre and state governments, with the active help of agricultural experts and institutions, must prepare necessary action plans to tackle the agrarian crisis. The Centre should also initiate talks on the recent three agricultural laws with the protesting farmers. In view of the prevailing pandemic, we want peace and social harmony in the country. For the sake of sustainable farming, R&D departments of the agricultural sector should study the suggestions and prepare a concrete action plan.

SUDESH KUMAR SHARMA, Kapurthala

Dose of compassion

The middle ‘From a doctor’s moist eyes’ aptly highlights our helplessness and desperation in this hour of crisis. It is true that even if a physician cannot cure, he can always be a source of comfort to the patients. A patient listening, a caring advise and a positive approach by a doctor can work wonders. No doubt, the virus is beyond our control today, no doubt, the times are tough and there is a constant fear of losing our dear ones, yet, we need to act humanely and with compassion. A caring attitude, gestures of love and affection and a friendly conversation can help ease the pain.

Sumita Kanwar, Yamunanagar

Cancel board exams

Reference to ‘Exams in limbo’; when students and parents are against the exams, why is the Central government keen to hold them? It won't take long for the exam centres to become Covid hotspots. If children contract the virus, who will take the responsibility? Will the minister take it? Who will be answerable for the safety of thousands of young lives? Already, the healthcare infrastructure is under tremendous strain. The government must explore the option of internal assessment for Class 12 students. Holding exams isn’t feasible.

Ritish Pandit, Sunhet

Exams a must

The decision to conduct class XII exams is a welcome step. As there is no replacement for classroom teaching, so is the case with offline exams. After class XII, students go into various fields depending upon their performance. Assessing the students online or promoting them based on pre-board scores or school assessment scores would have done a great injustice to brilliant students. Hence, offline exams under strict supervision are a must. Keeping in view the safety of examinees and staff, papers of compulsory subjects may be conducted. Duration of the paper can be reduced without compromising on the aim of learning. Exams can be conducted in two shifts to maintain social distance. In cases where students are not able to take exams due to Covid problems, separate exams can be held later.

Darshan S Bhathal, Nangal

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