Editor,
There is a peculiar talent some writers possess: the ability to take a simple subject and inflate it into a grand philosophical crisis. The recent letter titled “The World’s on Fire, But At Least My Straw is Dissolving” by Ellerine Diengdoh, (ST March 5, 2026, is a masterclass in this unnecessary acrobatics.
At its core, the issue being discussed is embarrassingly simple – plastic waste and the small lifestyle adjustments society is making to reduce it. Instead of engaging with the matter in good faith, the writer performs an elaborate intellectual circus by comparing paper straws to global warfare, lithium mining to moral hypocrisy, and recycling bins to the decisions of “Masters of War.” One almost expects the next paragraph to blame melting ice caps on wet cardboard.
The reader is asked to believe that because global environmental problems are complex, every small measure is automatically pointless. This is a curious argument. By that logic, one might as well stop sweeping the floor because dust storms exist in deserts. The inability to solve everything at once does not render incremental improvements meaningless, it merely exposes the impatience of those who prefer complaining to contributing.
What makes the piece particularly amusing is its dramatic tone. The agony of sipping iced coffee through a paper straw is described with such theatrical misery that one might assume the author had been sentenced to medieval torture rather than mild inconvenience. If dissolving straws are truly among the gravest burdens of modern life, we must congratulate ourselves for living in remarkably comfortable times.
The most glaring flaw, however, lies in the argument’s structure. Instead of addressing the actual purpose of reducing single-use plastics, the writer constructs a towering straw man, ironically enough, suggesting that environmental responsibility is a conspiracy of hypocrisy because larger problems still exist. This is less a critique and more a distraction dressed in clever prose.
Environmental policy, like most public issues, is rarely perfect. But dismissing small practical measures simply because they are not world-saving miracles is intellectually lazy. Progress is often made through modest steps, not grand gestures or sarcastic monologues about soggy straws.
In short, the letter confuses inconvenience with injustice and exaggeration with insight. If the aim was to spark serious discussion, clarity would have served better than theatrical indignation. Not every cup of coffee requires a philosophical crisis.
Yours etc.,
Name Withheld on Request
Via email
A Balanced View of Meghalaya’s Economic Journey
Editor,
Recent discussions about the Meghalaya Budget 2026–27 have raised concerns about the State’s finances and its dependence on funds from the Centre. Public debate on such matters is healthy. However, it is also important to look at the full picture and understand the challenges faced by a small hill state like Meghalaya.
To begin with, the fiscal deficit of 3.5% of GSDP remains within the legal limit set by the Meghalaya Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act. While the Sixteenth Finance Commission of India suggested that states keep the deficit closer to 3%, this is a recommendation and not a strict rule. Many states temporarily operate within the 3–4% range in order to invest in development and infrastructure. It is also important to note that Meghalaya continues to maintain a revenue surplus, which means the government is able to meet its regular expenses without borrowing money. This is generally seen as a positive sign of responsible financial management.
Some critics have pointed out that Meghalaya depends heavily on tax devolution and grants from the Centre. In reality, this is the case for many smaller states across India. The federal system is designed in such a way that states with limited revenue sources receive support through recommendations made by the Finance Commission of India. Meghalaya has a small industrial base and limited manufacturing, and a large part of its population still depends on rural livelihoods. Because of these structural realities, the path towards becoming a fully self-sustaining economy is naturally more challenging.
Despite these challenges, the State’s economy has grown steadily in recent years. Meghalaya’s Gross State Domestic Product has almost doubled from around Rs 37,000 crore six years ago to more than Rs 76,000 crore today. This growth has been possible because the government has focused on sectors that suit the State’s strengths, such as tourism, services, and improving infrastructure.
Some have also argued that State revenue has not grown as quickly as the overall economy. However, the figures themselves show that State revenues have increased by about 89% over the past six years, which is a significant improvement. This growth reflects better tax collection, expanding economic activity, and improved systems under GST.
Concerns have also been raised about the government’s investment in the power sector. It is important to understand that electricity infrastructure is essential for development. Reliable power supply supports homes, businesses, tourism, and future industries. While such investments may not give immediate financial returns, they are necessary for long-term economic progress.
Similarly, attracting private investment is an important step in creating jobs and strengthening the economy. Partnerships with major organisations, can help develop tourism, hospitality, and other service sectors that are well suited to Meghalaya’s economy. This does not mean that challenges do not exist. Meghalaya still has limited sectors that generate large internal revenue. Agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for many people, but it needs greater productivity, better market access, and stronger value chains. Building industries, improving agriculture, and expanding tourism will take time.
However, the overall direction of the State’s economy is encouraging. GSDP has grown steadily, the State continues to maintain a revenue surplus, and capital spending on infrastructure has increased. These steps show that the government is trying to build a stronger foundation for future growth.
Rather than viewing the current situation as a crisis, it may be more accurate to see it as a period of transition. For a small and geographically unique state like Meghalaya, economic progress will naturally take time.
The real goal is not only to grow the economy, but to ensure that growth benefits the people of the State. By strengthening key sectors, improving revenue collection, and continuing to invest in development, Meghalaya can gradually move towards greater financial strength and stability in the years ahead.
Yours etc;
Jack Syiemlieh
Via email
Commendable anti-poaching efforts in Kaziranga
Editor,
The successful recovery of greater one-horned rhinoceros at Assam’s Kaziranga National Park is an ample testimony to systematic conservation of wildlife. A rare species of rhinoceros which was close to extinction now shows a steep rise in its population. This success conveys the message of the importance of concerted efforts for a good cause. Stupendous efforts of all involved in this mission paid off. Through strict anti-poaching measures, habitat protection and rehabilitation the species which was on the verge of extinction has been brought back to a normal state. Now Kaziranga National Park protects 80% of the species in the world. If it had not been for the political will, dedication of officials and efforts of local people, the rhino species would have faced extinction.
The relentless efforts of local people are commendable. They have proved to be real conservationists. They act as community guardians and promptly report poaching. Through human efforts anything that seems unachievable becomes achievable. This successful story of wildlife conservation serves as a template for other conservation efforts. Our natural resources and wildlife must be protected at any cost. Stringent punitive measures must be taken against the perpetrators involved in poaching.
Yours etc.,
Venu GS,
Kollam
