Letters to the Editor: Tussle in establishing Veterinary University

Tussle in establishing Veterinary University

A tussle has surfaced in the process of establishing a veterinary university in Assam, which is unfortunate. There is no doubt that Assam deserves one such university, but the way in which a few teachers of the College of Veterinary Science have hurriedly prepared the bill and got it passed in the assembly is surprising. Such hurriedness has resulted in some loopholes in the Act from which originated the ongoing tussle. This fact has been admitted by the Chief Minister in front of the media.

It needs to be mentioned that the prime objective of Assam Agriculture University was to enhance the production of food of both plant and animal origin. While the agriculture faculty has been able to contribute much towards this goal through their research and extension activities, the veterinary faculty has miserably failed. Even the fishery faculty, which is much younger than veterinary, has been able to make a mark under the same administrative setup against which the veterinary faculty often alleges to be pro-agriculture. However, if one ponders to assess the cogent causes behind such a phenomenon, it will be clear that for so long, talents and merits are not getting preference in veterinary faculty during appointment and promotion, and consequently, the right people are not placed in the right position. There are ample examples to support the above statement. Recently a man of animal nutrition has been given the charge of the head of the Department of Extension Education, the like of which is found nowhere in the world.

It is relevant to mention here that under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the scenario in Assam has dramatically changed, and meritorious candidates are getting jobs without spending a penny. But in veterinary faculty, the situation is still the reverse. We hope that the Chief Minister will take appropriate steps to ensure that talented people get preference in the new university; failing which, it will bear no fruit for the people of Assam.

A Retired Professor,

College of Veterinary Science,

Khanapara, Guwahati

The hopes and aspirations for a new year?

Bidding farewell to an old year and welcoming a new one is a moment filled with joy and celebration for everyone. As we let go of the past and dream of a bright future, we embrace the novelty with great enthusiasm. The desire for renewal stirs the hearts of everyone, filling them with excitement. However, in a developing country like India, the question remains: Is it possible for everyone to partake in the plans and celebrations that come with welcoming the New Year?

Amidst the radiant dawn of a new year, does everyone truly find the essence of freshness and hope? While people yearn to immerse themselves in the novelty of the season, there are many in our society who spend every single day searching for the very essence of renewal. In the bustling metropolises of our nation, where grand and luxurious arrangements are made to welcome the New Year, a starkly contrasting reality also exists. While some indulge in extravagant celebrations, others—homeless individuals—spend their days and nights on the streets, driven by the pangs of hunger.

For such individuals, there is no difference between December 31 and January 1. As the night of December 31st ends, the day of January 1st begins as just another ordinary day. These individuals neither dwell on gains and losses nor harbour lofty aspirations. Their only concern is surviving, with two meals a day and a piece of cloth to shield themselves from shame being their sole sources of happiness. Matters of the old year or the New Year rarely touch their lives.

While we stay awake at night in anticipation of the first dawn of a New Year, many spend sleepless nights hoping for a morsel of food or a piece of clothing to survive the next day. In our celebrations, we should aim for inclusivity, ensuring that the joy of welcoming a New Year becomes possible for all. It is our moral responsibility to make an effort, however small, to bring smiles to the faces of those deprived of such celebrations. Instead of spending money on fireworks for our enjoyment, if we allocate that money to help the needy, it could light up their lives and bring smiles to their faces. Perhaps the homeless on the streets could dream of starting a new life in the New Year. Although such dreams may seem unattainable for them, we—those who organise extravagant celebrations—can think of their needs and contribute a bit towards their happiness.

Welcoming a new year with joy is not wrong, but alongside our celebrations, we should spare a thought for those less fortunate. By sharing our joy, we can help bring smiles to many faces. A new year signifies new hopes, new plans, and stepping forward towards new successes. May this New Year bring rays of hope not just for us but also for our society and country—that is a wish shared by all.

Deborshi Gautam,

Bangaon, Belsor

Action against drunk driving in Assam

I am writing to draw attention to the grave concern that has been haunting the roads of Assam and the Northeast, especially during the ongoing picnic season. Despite numerous guidelines issued by the government to curb drunk driving, the situation has only worsened. This negligence has led to a surge in accidents, many of which have caused irreparable damage to lives and families.

I, unfortunately, am a victim of one such incident. While returning home with three of my family members, our vehicle was hit by an intoxicated driver. The trauma and injuries we suffered were not just physical but deeply emotional. It pains me to note that even after repeated awareness campaigns, the menace of drunk driving persists, causing chaos and loss of innocent lives. One of the primary contributors to this worsening situation is the widespread availability of alcohol, with new wine shops opening across the state. The easy accessibility and lack of stringent enforcement against drunk driving are enabling this hazardous behaviour.

Recent reports reveal a sharp increase in accidents across Assam and the Northeast, many linked to alcohol consumption. The lack of effective measures and stricter laws is emboldening offenders, putting countless lives at risk every day. I earnestly urge the government of Assam to take stricter actions to address this issue immediately. It is high time the authorities recognize the urgency of this situation and take proactive steps to safeguard the lives of citizens. I hope this letter will serve as a wake-up call for both the administration and society at large.

Sabina Ahmed

Guwahati

Drugs: A global crisis

Since this matter darkens my heart, I have written to express my ordeal of drug abuse in our societies. While medical drugs have made wonders in the field of healthcare, their misuse—with respect to prescription drugs as well as recreational ones—is taking a toll on the lives of individuals, families, and broader communities. Drug addiction only destroys lives—it fuels crimes, weakens the workforce, and indeed burdens healthcare systems. Though still popular, many people, especially youth, fall prey to drug abuse due to peer pressure and stress-related issues.

We are called upon here to fast-track the prevention by open discussions, wider access to mental health support, and a strict regulation against illegal drug trading. We can build a society that treasures health and wellness over short-term highs.

Sukanya Bora,

Gauhati University