This refers to ‘Maha conquest’ (January 19). BMC and other municipal corporation election results have confirmed the consolidation of the BJP after the 2024 assembly elections. The BJP will take control of Mumbai for the first time in BMC’s history, marking the end of almost three decades of rule by the Thackerays. Mumbai’s civic fitness is central to Brand India and issues like monsoon flooding, clogged drains, potholed roads and garbage strewn beaches need to be addressed, and accountability fixed. The incoming corporators will carry the burden of huge expectations and they do not have any choice but to deliver on the promises.

Bal Govind

Noida

Fillip to weavers, artisans

This refers to ‘Weaving artisans into creating entrepreneurs’ (January 19). Hats off to Nivedita Rai and Sourodip Ghosh for starting Khargewale, to encourage and handhold weavers and artisans. If not given due attention, our handloom and handicrafts, which represent our traditional culture, will die a slow death. Moreover, a country which is fighting unemployment cannot afford to neglect the handloom and handicrafts industry which generates huge employment in rural areas. The death of the handicrafts industry will push the rural population to already crowded cities, thus worsening the problems relating to migration and urbanisation. .

Veena Shenoy

Thane

US’ Greenland push

This refers to ‘US’ ‘Greenland tariff’ a ‘red alert’ for India to guard its autonomy’ (January 19). Trump’s sudden imposition of tariffs on European allies over the Greenland dispute, even after recent trade pacts, is a stark reminder of how unpredictable US trade policy can be. For India, already facing high tariffs on key exports like textiles and leather since last August, this episode underscores that no deal guarantees protection from future coercion. The concern is real: strategic concessions today might not shield our core interests tomorrow. New Delhi should stick firmly to its red lines in ongoing negotiations — protecting agriculture, data flows, and energy choices — while pursuing diversified markets to reduce over-reliance on any single partner. A balanced, autonomous approach will serve our long-term economic security best. Let’s prioritise resilience over hasty compromises.

A Myilsami

Coimbatore

Published on January 19, 2026