Apropos, ‘The dilemmas of Modi government’ (June 8). Inflation possesses an exceptional capacity to reshape political fortunes, often overshadowing policy successes and governance achievements. The 1998 Delhi Assembly election, where soaring onion prices became a potent symbol of public frustration and contributed to the BJP’s defeat, remains a cautionary lesson. Today, escalating fuel and cooking gas prices, triggered by geopolitical turbulence in West Asia, present a similarly formidable challenge. Although the Modi government can plausibly attribute these inflationary pressures to external disruptions, economic hardship experienced by households invariably translates into political dissatisfaction. Effective communication may temper public anger, but cannot entirely neutralise it. Nevertheless, the government’s successful management of the far more severe economic dislocations during the Covid-19 crisis offers grounds for cautious optimism.

N Sadhasiva Reddy

Bengaluru

Pressure on all sides

After 12 years, any government looks tired, and external shocks test its reflexes. Trump tariffs, an Iran conflict that choked oil, a weak monsoon, fertilizer shortages, and $25 billion in foreign outflows have hit together. The rupee slid 10 per cent, inflation fears rise, and RBI struggles with volatility. Yet voter boredom, not policy failure, often drives change, as 1967 and 2011 proved. The BJP holds 240 seats but runs a thin coalition. AAP and TVK can disrupt a fed up electorate. Survival needs more than dribbles to the goal. It demands humility, inflation control, farmer relief, and coalition care. Longevity breeds hubris. Renewal beats routine.

Babu Crishna

Bengaluru

Challenges in healthcare

This refers to ‘Healthy data’ (June 8). The NFHS-6 highlights notable progress in several areas — improvements in immunisation coverage , maternal healthcare utilisation and access to sanitation facilities. But challenges like stunting, wasting, underweight children and micronutrient deficiencies continue to affect millions of young lives. Child malnutrition affects cognitive development, educational achievement and the nation’s long term economic growth. Multi-pronged approaches like strengthening maternal health and nutrition before and during pregnancy, promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and complementary feeding afterwards are needed. Poshan Abhiyaan and mid-day meal schemes must be implemented diligently. Investments in digital healthcare infrastructure can enhance healthcare delivery and data driven decision-making.

Bal Govind

Noida

Published on June 8, 2026