Apropos ‘Crushing problem’ (May 26), the West Asia conflict and the resultant crude oil shortage has come to impact the availability of palm oil also, which is largely consumed by the people. Unfortunately, major edible oil producers are curtailing their exports, triggering a price rise.

The Centre’s move on hiking import duties on edible oil items, to force consumers to reduce consumption and conserve foreign exchange, does not augur well as it will have a serious impact on low income families depending on the affordable item.

As suggested, the right way would be to reduce the customs duty to give relief to the consumers and take necessary steps in enthusing farmers to grow more edible crops such as sesame, sunflower and mustard to offset the demand for palm oil.

RV Baskaran

Pune

AI aspirations

This refers to ‘India’s AI options are linked to energy costs’ (May 26). The article rightly draws attention to a critical bottleneck in India’s AI ambitions: reliable and affordable power. While we speak of becoming a global AI player, the reality of electricity shortages and high costs for data centres threatens to hold us back. The way forward lies in urgent, practical steps. Prioritising robust energy infrastructure, accelerating renewable energy projects and offering targeted incentives for AI-related power needs are essential. Public-private partnerships in green energy and smarter grid management can make a real difference. By addressing this foundational issue, India can turn its AI aspirations into tangible progress and secure a stronger position in the global technology landscape.

SM Jeeva

Chennai

US-China power dynamics

This refers to ‘It’s China that needs the West, not the reverse’ (May 26). While China has grown rapidly, its economy remains deeply dependent on Western markets, technology and capital. Any illusion of self-sufficiency could prove costly if global trust erodes further.

For India, this is a timely reminder to strengthen our own economic resilience. We should focus on building reliable trade partnerships, investing in domestic manufacturing and innovation, and maintaining strategic autonomy without isolation. Diversifying export markets and upgrading our infrastructure will help us navigate this shifting global order more effectively. A balanced approach that values cooperation alongside caution will serve our long-term interests best.

Abbharna Barathi

Chennai

Published on May 26, 2026