In “We can cope with drought” ( Business Line , July 19), a suggestion was made to make use of surplus food grains. It is not just surplus grains; we have surplus resources which can be utilised for importing food grains to preclude the shortages.
Many people, including political leaders, are involved in corrupt practices and frauds involving crores rupees. If someone keeps a count of the amount, it may exceed the budget provisions for the country. The country is going through droughts, floods, law and order problems, as a result of which many developmental projects are being delayed for want of clearances or lack of funds.
B. N. Vihari
Visakhapatnam
Banking at doorsteps
The report, ‘‘Most villagers willing to pay a fee for banking at their doorsteps’’ ( Business Line , July 24) brings out the mindset of the present consumer community in India. People want services at their convenience at nominal costs. While the Government and the RBI boast of inclusive banking, there are areas when there is no real access to banks. The lack of transport restricts a vast majority of villagers to move to the banks.
People in the rural areas should be assured of the ATM services within a distance of 2-3 km from where they live. A part of the profits earned by the banks should be earmarked for rendering these services to the rural people. The introduction of ‘banking correspondent’ is a good idea to help the people, but security and integrity concerns should not be overlooked.
C. P. Velayudhan Nair