Date:18/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/18/stories/2008081855271000.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

I-Day address

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s fifth consecutive Independence Day address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort was nothing special. He repeatedly focussed on the schemes of his government but failed to underline the problems faced by the country, particularly terrorism and naxalism. Inflation is on the rise, so is corruption. Our country needs not just slogans but solutions.

Inamdar Ramachandra,

Bangalore

* * *

Dr. Singh said in his speech that his government had fulfilled all the promises the UPA made to the people before the elections. Although the UPA government has granted a massive loan waiver to farmers, most of them continue to starve and take their lives. There are also many migrant workers who are being exploited. India is growing rapidly in the area of science and technology but has remained stagnant in the area of agriculture. We can claim to have kept our promises only when all our farmers get adequate food and shelter.

Deepak George,

Thiruvanathapuram

* * *

Is it necessary for us to have a holiday on August 15 or January 26? These are indeed golden days in the annals of Indian history and need to be remembered and relived. But should we not draw inspiration from these dates and pledge to work harder, rather than remain more or less inactive on these days?

P. Sampurnan,

Ernakulam