This refers to ‘In a first, Trump says two leaders of India-Pak ‘decided’ to stop conflict’ ( June 19). In all fairness, the US President “owes” an explanation to the Indian people for taking some “undue credit” by proudly claiming that he was the man behind sudden cessation of war between India and Pakistan.

That apart, such a startling revelation by him must also serve as an eye opener for the Congress party’s top brass and its “over-enthusiastic” spokespersons too.

One fervently hopes that the Congress Party soon realises the folly of raising the false political bogey aimed to corner PM Modi even in the matters concerning our national security and prestige.

SK Gupta

New Delhi

Fostering research

The article ‘Consortia needed to align academia, industry talent’ (June 19), drawing up an actionable blueprint, highlights an imperative for India “to convert demographic dividend and academic capital to industrial strength”.

The gap between acquired knowledge and the application of it seems to be widening, roiling most efforts aimed at development, resulting in sub optimal outcomes.

A collaborative approach with dependable funding options from industry’s R&D initiatives - directed to facilitate usable adaptation of academic knowledge - can kindle the quest for knowledge, assuring rewards for pursuing it. This will enable a win win for both academia and industry and in turn hasten development. Using a portion of CSR funds, industrial houses can provide dedicated research facilities, set up scholarships to pursue area specific research to cash in on the curiosity of young scholars.

Jose Abraham

Kottayam

Edge of war

Apropos to Iran-Israel war, Ayatollah Khamenei’s stark warning to the US amid continued Israeli strikes highlights the razor’s edge we’re on.

President Trump’s mixed signals coupled with reluctance only heighten uncertainty. Putin’s offer to mediate reflects Russia’s strategic interest, not neutrality. The risk of direct US and Iran confrontation is growing, with devastating potential.

Rather than sabre-rattling, world leaders must prioritise diplomacy to defuse tensions.

Vijaykumar H K

Raichur

Fix MSP on oilseeds

With reference to news report “Edible oil companies reduce rates after duty cut” (June 19), consumer markets may rejoice, but not the farmers producing oilseeds.

With frequent revision of import duty, the oil companies regulate purchase price from farmers which is stifling, since the farmers have to abide by the diktats.

The government must fix MSP for oilseeds and mainly oil-palm, failing which the farmers may shift from oilseed production to other crops. Alternatively, the government must establish a board to procure oilseeds and store it for future usage so that the farmers’ anxiety is mitigated.

Rajiv Magal

Halekere Village (Karnataka)

Published on June 19, 2025