Editor,
Apropos of KN Kumar’s article, NER start-ups get only 2% of VC funds: Why (ST June 18,2025, I have the following points to make:
Don’t let the Northeast be the footnote of India’s startup journey. Instead it must also be a part of making it the headline of a start-up story..The start-up revolution will be incomplete until it includes every corner of India including the far but fierce Northeast and also away from Metro city clusters.
If the Silicon Valley was born in garages, the Northeast can build its own legacy from its forests, farms, and frontier spirit. From crafts to code, from tea to tech the Northeast must be having stories of start-ups waiting to be told and funded
Investor bias is India’s invisible bottleneck and also is natural ! Northeast India needs seed capital exploiting local eco- system and spirit. A 12.7 x growth in Northeast startups is not a small spark and it’s a signal flare in my view..
Yours etc.,
Dr.C.S.Rao,
Bengaluru.
A balanced approach to regulating two-wheeler rentals in Meghalaya
Editor,
The winding roads of Meghalaya, beckoning thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, have long been synonymous with freedom and adventure. For many young travelers,renting a motorcycle or scooter is not just an economical way to explore the state, but an exhilarating experience that comes with the rush of fresh air and the thrill of the open road. However, a recent incident involving tourists from Indore in Sohra has led to a blanket ban on two-wheeler rental businesses in Meghalaya. While ensuring public safety is crucial, an outright prohibition may inadvertently clip the wings of this thriving industry.
The tourism sector – a significant contributor to Meghalaya’s economy, relies partly on two-wheeler rentals. A ban would not only impact these young investors but also affect local employment opportunities, leaving many youths without a source of income. Instead of a blanket ban, I propose introducing targeted regulations within the Motor Vehicle Act. A consultative approach, involving stakeholders, experts, and local authorities, could help craft balanced policies that address concerns while preserving the industry.
Key considerations could include:
1. Registration and licensing for vehicle rental businesses.
2. Background checks for rental operators to ensure credibility.
3. Mandatory insurance coverage for riders and vehicles.
4. Enhanced monitoring and enforcement to prevent misuse.
5. Rider safety training to promote responsible riding.
Registration and licensing would ensure that only legitimate businesses operate, maintaining standards and accountability. This would also provide a framework for authorities to track and regulate the industry.
By working together, we can find solutions that benefit all parties – ensuring public safety, supporting local businesses, and promoting sustainable tourism.
Let’s not let one incident hold us back from exploring possibilities. Let’s ride together towards a balanced approach that preserves the joy of riding and the beauty of Meghalaya.
Yours etc,
Ebormi Kennedy Sutnga,
Jowai
Concern over the behaviour of elders in public spaces
Editor,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to draw attention to a concerning issue that we experienced quite frequently which is the uncalled-for behavior of some elderly individuals in public.
While elders are often respected for their wisdom and experience, but I was met with a completely different reality today where there was a minor car accident with no scratches or any harm done. However, the situation turned unpleasant due to the attitude of the elderly man driving the other vehicle.
Rather than resolving the matter calmly, he began shouting and hurling slang and inappropriate words in front of my children seated in the car. Such behavior was shocking, uncalled for and deeply disappointing, especially coming from someone we are taught to respect and look up to and I am sure he will have to eat his own filthy words coming out of his mind sooner or later. But, the fact of the matter is how we are teaching our younger generations with this kind of arrogant attitude and irresponsible behavior.
While age should earn respect, it also comes with the responsibility to set the right example. Sadly, this incident reflects a growing trend of intolerance and aggression, even among the older generation. It is high time we address this issue and promote mutual respect, patience, courteousness and moral responsibilities— qualities that should define us, regardless of age.
I hope this letter helps spark a conversation around the need for responsible behavior in public spaces.
Yours etc.,
S. Lyngdoh
Via email
What model of ILP do pressure groups want?
Editor,
It is disturbing that in the midst of an investigation on the Raghuvanshi murder case, a conglomerate group under the banner CoMSO had to stage a protest demanding the government’s action for implementing the Inner Line Permit. To attribute that such a heinous crime is linked to the absence of an ILP is hollow since we all know very well that such an incident had never happened in these past several years. And even if we have the ILP how can it become a fool-proof mechanism in preventing more heinous crimes from occurring.
This is a big question, which clearly no one has an answer or a solution for and also on how to implement the ILP because there has been no workable model except what we may recollect is the proposed three-tier card entry system. In an age of technology perhaps the use of sophisticated identification technology aided with actionable data could be utilized but its feasibility will also need to be examined.
Throwing all responsibility upon the state authorities is unrealistic if the MRSSA can be more effectively implemented in letter and spirit and especially with the ADCs along with the local Headmen being more responsible there is no need to misjudge any solution that the state proposes.
Yours etc…
Dominic S. Wankhar
Via email