Welcome rate cut
In the backdrop of heightened uncertainty in the global market following the announcement of reciprocal tariffs by US President Donald Trump and fears over inflation and lower growth , the MPC has cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6 per cent and changed the monetary policy stance from neutral to accommodative.
The rate cut will reduce interest rates on home, personal, and vehicle loans and deposit rates.
Fostering economic growth while maintaining macroeconomic stability by switching over to an accommodative stance by the RBI qualifies as a pragmatic measure.
M Jeyaram
Sholavandan (TN)
SC’s landmark verdict
The SC’s strictures against Tamil Nadu Governor should serve as a warning to the Centre’s appointees across the country, particularly in non- BJP States. The verdict offers as much a lesson to errant governors as to the Union government, which sought to control State governments run by opposition parties.
With Kerala and Telangana also having gone to court alleging obstructionist tactics and by their respective governors, the verdict in the Tamil Nadu case is bound to have a wider impact.
Governors would do well to read the duties and responsibilities delineated by the court. The judgment reinforces the federal principle when it is under serious pressure.
Gregory Fernandes
Mumbai
Student woes
Apropos, ‘Number of Indian students in the US down 28% in FY 25’, (April 9), for Indian students, studying in US is a coveted opportunity, promising top-tier education and career prospects.
Yet, beneath the glossy brochures and success stories lies a challenging reality. The path from an immigrant student to a cultural steward is fraught with complexities, but remains a potent narrative of America’s promise.
The combination of low visa issuance rates, the growing controversies surrounding H-1B visas and Optional Practical Training (OPT) and escalating tuition and living costs create a volatile environment.
The inability to work or gain relevant work experience also has significant financial and psychological consequences.
Thus, uncertainties and plethora of emerging intricacies make it unconducive atmosphere for students.
N Sadhasiva Reddy
Bengaluru