One believes that the Prime Minister needs to avoid the overloaded environment around the COP 26 summit before committing to the year 2070 as the country’s target date to achieve zero net emissions (page 1, November 2). was not affected. There is no doubt that we need to heed the stern warnings about the calamity looming over the world community. Developed countries should talk about this. For India, meeting the targets set for renewable energy targets, electric vehicle transition and increasing forest cover should be an immediate priority, citing just a few examples. Our dependence on coal fired thermal power plants cannot be removed in a day. New technologies should be explored in running these plants. The formation of a task force to monitor the progress from time to time would help in identifying the gray areas that need attention.
Chennai
India’s target year is not a credible statement. Climate change is real and already in effect, with Kerala, Uttarakhand and Mumbai being examples of drastic change. Coal consumption should be reduced. The green cover will have to be restored with stringent targets and reviews every few months. Every single day is important to tackle the dangers of climate change and heat.
Chennai
The world is facing a disastrous future and it has to act without delay. Nations must now be prepared for action on the ground rather than for dubious commitments. After all, the Earth is what we all have in common.
Patiala, Punjab
The time has come for the governments of the world to stop chasing after the notion of growth and development which is not sustainable. In the name of ‘ease of doing business’, the central and state governments of India are ignoring the necessary environmental checks. For example in Kerala, the outbreak of elements has not created any awareness. Environmentally destructive projects like the Silverline High Speed Railway need to be shown the door. Supporters of sustainable development should keep in mind what Clive Hamilton said in his ominous book, Request for a Species: Why We Resist the Truth About Climate Change: “Humanity’s determination to change the planet for its own material benefit is now having the opposite effect on us in the most spectacular way that the climate crisis for the human species no longer exists.”
Kongad, Palakkad, Kerala
The main objective of monetary policy is to stabilize prices and enable economic growth. India’s central bank has done quite well in this. There is a need for regulation when it comes to cryptocurrencies (OpEd page, “The Crypto Conundrum”, November 1). Simply put, the emergence of cryptocurrencies in the midst of economic turmoil is like playing IPL cricket matches when there are regular formats of the game of cricket. There should be a framework of regulation when speculative tendencies are present.
Chennai
After a very disappointing performance, which resulted in a crushing defeat for Pakistan in the T20 World Cup match, the Indian team again put up a disappointing performance against New Zealand. There’s probably a lot more than meets the eye. The BCCI, the coach and the captain should make an honest assessment. It is least indebted to the ardent fans of Indian cricket.
Bangalore
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