This refers to ‘What happens when CAD rises’ (April 1). Rising crude oil prices have directly increased import bills for net-importing nations like India, widening the current account deficit (CAD). This has also driven the rupee to a historic low. Managing a CAD driven by rising crude oil prices requires a multi-pronged approach focused on reducing import reliance, boosting foreign exchange inflows, and implementing strategic fiscal policies. Promoting renewable energy, enhancing domestic refining and accelerating exports will also help manage CAD.

P Victor Selvaraj

Palayamkottai, TN

WTO’s relevance

Apropos ‘Existential crisis’ (April 1), the WTO’s struggle is less about procedure and more about purpose. Once founded on the ideals of trade for development and poverty reduction, it now risks irrelevance amid fractured alliances and unilateral tariffs. India’s resistance to extending the e-commerce moratorium and to the China-backed investment facilitation proposal reflects a pragmatic defence of sovereignty and policy space. Yet the larger challenge is restoring consensus between the Global North and South, without which multilateralism collapses into rhetoric. The WTO must rediscover its role as a fair arbiter, not a forum sidelined by bilateral deals and power politics.

Babu Crishna

Bengaluru

Coffee sector needs relief

This refers to ‘RBI continues trade relief measures amid West Asia crisis’ (April 1). The West Asia war has hit almost every sector, including coffee plantation. With predictions of a harsh summer, fertilizer shortage, and possible crop losses, the RBI must take immediate steps to defer loan repayment and grant interest waiver. The central bank must also allow bank to consider loan restructuring in case the war extends.

Rajiv Magal

Halekere Village, Karnataka

Menstrual leave

Apropos ‘A holistic approach needed on menstrual leave’ (April 1), menstrual leave benefits haven’t been extended to all working women. What the policy framework will be for women working in the unorganised sector is anybody’s guess. The Supreme Court has rightly refrained from giving blanket directives and asked policymakers to balance social protection and economic opportunities. Small firms and service outlets which function on thin margins will find it difficult to extend menstrual leave.

RV Baskaran

Pune

Published on April 1, 2026