We should respect the mandate Donald Trump has received (‘The second coming’, November 24). A majority of Americans have recognised his vision, believed in his promises, and chosen him as their president. So, it is natural that they would expect him to deliver on those promises.
As Indians, why should it concern us who gets elected as president in the US? The American policy towards India is unlikely to change significantly, regardless of who holds office. Also, it is natural for any leader to prioritise their country’s interests. India, with its immense potential, offers so much more. In the next decade or two India is poised to be on par with the US. By then, there will be little reason for Indians to go to that country except for leisure trips.
Prasad Vasudev,
On email.
Trump has made a remarkable comeback, defying election surveys and media projections. It was evident that Kamala Harris did not emerge a strong opponent.
Interestingly, there is a strong parallel between Narendra Modi’s third term and Trump’s second term, which, in fact, showcases their appeal and resilience. Let us hope that the close friendship between Trump and Modi will further strengthen the strategic partnership.
Jayakumar A.V.,
On email.
Elon Musk’s financial backing and steadfast support played a crucial role in securing Trump’s return to the Oval Office under difficult circumstances. For India, this presents both opportunities and challenges. However, the positives appear to outweigh the negatives, thanks to the warm rapport between Trump and Modi.
Vijay Navalyal,
On email.
Trump is a maverick and a tough leader who does not hesitate to lie, and he will dismiss those who oppose his views. I feel in his second term he will adopt a more pragmatic approach, particularly in handling relations with Russia, Israel, China and Europe.
K.V. Jayaram,
On email.
Aiyar is correct
Mani Shankar Aiyar is correct when he said that India needs to become a sporting nation, and not just a sport-hosting nation (‘Mani-festo’, November 24). Apart from cricket, our recent records in other sports have been far from impressive.
Aiyar consistently demonstrates the courage to call a spade a spade, unlike many others who skirt around issues.
C.K. Saseendran,
On email.
Bold assertion
I thoroughly enjoyed R. Prasannan’s column (November 24). The bold assertion that boorish leaders often drive significant change is thought-provoking and refreshing. By comparing people like Harry S. Truman and Richard Nixon with Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama, the column compellingly illustrates how controversial leaders, despite their flaws, can leave transformative legacies.
The column challenges the conventional belief that politeness and decorum are essential for effective leadership. Nixon’s groundbreaking outreach to China, Ronald Reagan’s Cold War strategy, and Donald Trump’s Abraham Accords serve as compelling examples of how impactful leadership often stems from a combination of audacity, pragmatism and resilience. But, for me, what stands out in the column is the underlying message: strength respects strength. It is a timely reminder for nations and leaders alike to focus not just on appearances but on results that shape history. Thank you for the compelling perspective.
Z. Joy Melvin,
Kolkata.
Settle in Wayanad
Priyanka Gandhi should maintain a strong and consistent presence in Wayanad from here on (‘Mother India, reloaded’, November 24). She and her party must give due importance to the welfare and development of the people of Wayanad, ensuring their needs are never taken lightly. It would be great if Priyanka builds a home in Wayanad and dedicates at least 100 days a year there, thereby actively engaging with the community and addressing their concerns.
Vismay Mathur,
On email.
Rural shift
Rural India is steadily advancing alongside urban counterparts, driven by improved communication infrastructure and the widespread dissemination of information through digital platforms (‘Last Word’, November 24). This shift has enabled people from rural India to embrace modern consumer goods and products for everyday needs. Favourable monsoons and implementation of welfare initiatives have bolstered the agro-based rural economy.
Sachidananda Satpathy,
On email.
Suresh Narayanan has brought to light a remarkable initiative: creating a self-appointed job opportunity for a village housewife. This is a commendable effort by Nestle, demonstrating how focused action can empower individuals and communities. Creating jobs and opportunities like this is exactly what the country needs.
Raj Sekhar,
On email.
Why Aiyar ignores Pak terrorism?
The Chinese have rarely treated India as a good neighbour. While Mani Shankar Aiyar indirectly praises the Union government for initiating a peace dialogue with China, he concludes by suggesting that if India can engage with China to seek durable peace, “should that not apply to Pakistan?” Such a remark from Aiyar seems to disregard the cross-border terrorism from Pakistan.
It leads one to ask whether he is acting in Pakistan’s interest (‘Mani-festo’, November 10).
Laljee Verma (retired air marshal),
On email.