Bank frauds

This refers to ‘Bank frauds hit unprecedented ₹71,500 crore in FY19: RBI’ (June 4). It is disturbing that such a huge amount was involved in FY19. There is scope for bringing down frauds if both banks and the RBI are alert to the issues giving rise to them. There should be a special panel in each bank to examine both requests for loans and the steps to be initiated for repayment by defaulters. Tackling fraud calls for eternal vigilance on the part of banks, the RBI and the Finance Ministry.

Coimbatore

The US State Department scrutiny of social media accounts of past five years of all new visa seekers in the country is too stringent and intimidating a step. It should be withdrawn immediately in the interest of protecting the freedom of expression. There has been a hardening of stance in issuing visas ever since President Trump took over the reins. All non-US passport holders already face tough scrutiny at the port of entry. The new rule will make matters worse for both visitors and job-seekers, particularly HI-B visa-seekers, who will have to get their visas renewed and stamped more frequently.

Ludhiana

This refers to ‘Foreign policy challenges’ (June 4). Foreign policy management will remain a daily challenge. Any gesture of adjustment in bilateral/multilateral dealings could thus be seen more as adroit diplomacy rather than bargaining out of weakness. To start with, given a highly opinionated and adamant Trump, a little leeway on trade and tariffs will see us through many US-related issues. Iran oil is one and so would be easing possible differences over buying Russian S-400 missle defence systems. After all, we enjoy a $60 billion trade surplus with the US, opposed to an equal trade deficit with China, to which we give unfettered access. Now that we have a foreign minister who has vast experience in global diplomacy, the prime minister can proceed with greater confidence.

Navi Mumbai

It is interesting to hear from Ajay Singh, Chairman and Co-founder of SpiceJet, that the company has enough funds but may consider proposals that bring in strategic value for the company. This means, he does not rule out oversea partnerships. This also clearly means expansion of oversea routes by sharing, if the intention of the prospective investor is to take a piece of the domestic cake. However, as huge commitments are being made for purchase of new aircraft and leasing of some from Jet Airways, additional funds would be needed, sooner than later. Why not give the shareholders the right to buy shares at a premium for helping meet the cost of the new fleet?

Bengaluru

This is with reference to ‘High time States set up water regulators’ (June 4). Interlinking of rivers is the best way to beat water scarcity. The various State heads/leader should rise above petty politics and rivalries to help the people affected by water scarcity. Apart from Marathwada and Latur districts of Maharashtra, which are in focus, there are many other places in the country that are facing acute water shortage. With the monsoon fast approaching, it is the right time to spread awareness about saving rainwater and water harvesting. The government, on its part, should take all necessary steps to preserve the rainwater by speeding up the digging of more wells, and repair/maintenance of ponds/dams.

As far as possible rainwater should not be allowed to go waste. Although strict measures such as fines for wasting water are welcome, awareness about saving water is a more effective way of conserving water. Like-minded people/NGO s should start visiting schools, colleges, housing societies and parks to create awareness among the people about conserving and saving water. Rainwater harvesting and building dams should be some of the steps that should be taken on a priority basis.

Thane

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