MNC bazaar

The well-worded article “Remember the Salt Tax, anyone?” ( Business Line , August 5) was an eye opener.

Let us not forget that the Food Safety and Standards Act has been enforced in the country now. No one can dispute that adulteration is a crime and must be dealt with strictly.

However, the conditions stipulated in the Act are such which cannot be complied with easily by Indian retailers in the prevailing circumstances.

Therefore, as the article points out, only the global food giants will be able to comply with the new laws and they will enjoy near money in selling to sell their products.

The traditional Indian food items will be history very shortly.

And food is just one sector; the same principle will be applied in other sectors as well. Are we not allowing MNCs to set up a virtually monopolistic bazaar in India?

Praveen Khandelwal

FDI in retail

I agree with the author's views in the above-named article. But our politicians have always lacked conviction in correcting systemic problems.

They see FDI in retail as one way to save face. They see self-reliance as having no meaning, as long as Western companies are knocking at India's doors and are ready to finance political expenses. They see it as a good way to avoid issues.

I don't think the author's point of view will be heard. I am sure FDI in retail will happen, whether it is good for us or not.

Many such writers will have to come together for their voices to be heard to dissuade the government from allowing such FDI.

With America at the receiving end as far as China and its threats are concerned, US companies perhaps see the bull-dozing of BRIC nations as their only way out.

India still has a chance. We must hold out!

Prasanna Salvi

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