This refers to ‘Accuracy of severe weather forecast up 30-40% in 10 years’ (February 5). The improvement in forecast accuracy comes from better satellites, Doppler radars, ocean buoys, faster computers and Multi-Model Ensemble systems that combine many weather models.

Forecasts are usually updated every 6-12 hours, but fast-changing events like heavy rain and cyclones need updates every few hours using live radar, satellite and ground data.

New technology should work along with local weather stations so that regular updates and clear warnings can reduce missed and false rain alerts.

S Balasubramaniyan

Villupuram, TN

Tariff clarity needed

Apropos ‘Tariff cheer’ (February 5), the reported easing of US tariffs on Indian goods is encouraging, but the larger concern lies in the lack of clarity around timing, scope and conditions.

What industry and exporters need now is a clear, jointly signed statement that spells out what has been agreed, what remains under negotiation, and when changes will take effect. The government should also keep Parliament and stakeholders informed, instead of allowing speculation to fill the gaps.

A Myilsami

Coimbatore

Effect of sin tax

Apropos ‘High taxes on cigarettes may fuel illicit trade, hurt collection’ (February 5), there is absolutely no denying that in this part of the world, control and corruption go hand in hand. But then, if there is good governance, then taxes on sin goods (for instance, cigarettes) will not lead to illicit trade or corruption. After all, the very purpose of sin tax is to discourage consumption of goods falling in its purview.

S Ramakrishnasayee

Chennai

Giving farmers a leg-up

‘Big vision, but little relief for agriculture’ (February 5) rightly underlines the widening gap between the government’s long-term technological ambitions and the farmer’s immediate economic distress. While initiatives such as the Bharat-VISTAAR AI platform and promotion of high-value crops signal future readiness, they offer little comfort to farmers facing stagnant real incomes and rising input costs today. For “Agriculture 4.0” to be truly inclusive, AI-driven advisories must be matched with credible price assurance and an effective procurement mechanism for non-cereal crops.

Vidyasagar Reddy Kethiri

Warangal, Telangana

Published on February 5, 2026