The ties between India and the UAE have never been so strong. The UAE has become a second home for so many Indians, who have played an important role in the nation’s development and prosperity (‘This is the closest India and the UAE have ever been’, January 5).

 

THE WEEK seems to have a distinct edge in its coverage of the UAE, with this being the second major story on India-UAE relations in the last 12 months. India, I feel, should leverage its close ties and influence with the UAE to further deepen its engagement across the Middle East.

 

Ramachandran G.V.,

On email.

 

The relationship between India and the UAE is deeply rooted in centuries of people-to-people connections. The UAE’s position as India’s third-largest trading partner underscores the depth of the economic partnership. Milestones, such as the establishment of a regional office for the Central Board of Secondary Education in Dubai and the opening of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, highlight the commitment of both nations to foster cultural and educational ties. Indeed, this relationship exemplifies the adage: “A friend in need is a friend indeed”.

 

V. Rajesh Mohan Rao,

On email.

 

The UAE’s development is not solely due to its oil wealth but also stems from its visionary leadership and respect for diverse religions and cultures. Hindus visit the iconic Grand Mosque, while the BAPS Hindu Mandir, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year, is open to people of all faiths.

 

A significant number of Indians employed in the UAE have played a vital role in its progress, while affluent Indians have invested in properties like those on Palm Jumeirah. Film stars from India enjoy immense popularity in the UAE. The strong ties between our two nations are mutually beneficial.

 

K.V. Jayaram,

On email.

 

I agree with Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir that when it comes to India and the UAE, history and future are intertwined. Our bond with the UAE goes back ages. The UAE has offered so much to Indians, and Indians have worked tirelessly.

 

Radha Kumari,

On email.

 

For a polio-free world

For those involved in the disability sector, it was a moment of great celebration when India was declared polio-free. Despite initial resistance from the uneducated section of the population, who had issues in administering polio drops to their babies, our medical teams worked tirelessly to overcome these hurdles. However, the battle isn’t over yet.

 

True victory can only be celebrated when the entire world, including our neighbouring countries, is polio-free.

 

It was fascinating to learn through R. Prasannan’s remarkable research (‘Powerdrive’, January 5) that even Osama bin Laden could be indirectly linked to the persistence of polio. This is going to be a revelation that will add to Laden’s infamous legacy.

 

Every issue of THE WEEK is a collector’s item! The moment I get a copy, I eagerly dive into the Letter from the Editor and Powerdrive. I thoroughly enjoy the subtle humour and the ability to relate incidents in both these sections.

 

Poonam Tyagi,

On email.

 

Anniversary treat

I am an ardent reader of THE WEEK and eagerly await the courier boy’s knock every Friday.

 

Your Anniversary Special Double Issue (December 29) was a treat. It featured a gamut of interesting articles. I was unaware of the origins, healing rituals and customs of the Sidis, a migrant African tribe revered as demigods in some places in India.

 

Anyone with a sweet tooth will thoroughly enjoy the article on the world of Indian craft chocolates, which can give foreign brands a run for their money.

 

Another captivating narrative was the football jugglery from the northeast, showcasing a volcano of untapped talent. With proper nurturing, this region could help put India on the global football map. Surely, some future Ronaldos and Messis are in the making.

 

While the political caricature maestro R.K. Laxman is no more, we now have a fiery band of political cartoonists who have their magic brushes, though they deserve more freedom to dwell on ‘Viksit Bharat’. The article on the subject sums it up brilliantly.

 

And with Army Day around the corner, the story of the unsung heroes who keep the logistics ticking for soldiers in the icy terrain of the world’s highest battlefield, the Siachen Glacier, was both compelling and inspiring.

 

Thank you, THE WEEK, for this remarkable edition.

Muralidhar Kutty,

On email.

 

Set an example

It is a fact that political cartoonists often face the wrath of the powers that be when their work is perceived as offensive (‘Fortoon tellers’, December 29). Over the years, so many cartoonists have been arrested under charges like sedition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi should set an example and ensure that all cartoonists have the freedom to express themselves through their sketches in any style they choose.

 

Amarnath Gaurav,

On email.

 

Great column

I thoroughly enjoy reading K.C. Verma’s columns. His relatable writing style resonates deeply, offering a refreshing perspective in a world often marred by pretension. It brings much-needed relief, reminding us of the beauty in life’s simplicity. It is in little joys and seeing the good in others that true happiness lies.

 

Being critical of everything is not necessary. It is also not productive. It is enough to embrace life as it is.

 

Roopika Verma,

On email.