The soldiers guarding our border in the Siachen Glacier, braving sub-zero temperatures and snow-clad terrain, have unparalleled grit and determination (‘Eyes on the ice’, January 26).
Amid constant threats of avalanches and frostbite, their resilience is awe-inspiring. Modern Himalayan warfare has embraced the latest technology, with specialised weapons, advanced communication systems, and state-of-the-art snow gear becoming key to securing the heights. Having said that, what remains unchanged is the physical endurance and steely resolve of our soldiers, who embody the spirit of sacrifice and service to the nation.
P.S. Mehta,
On email.
Your cover story made for a fascinating read. With adversaries to the north and west, mountain warfare is bound to play a crucial role in any future engagements with our belligerent neighbours. It is reassuring to know that the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) is training soldiers to tackle all challenges in the treacherous terrain.
Reading your cover story brought back fond memories of a three-week ski course my wife and I took in 1978 at the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering in Gulmarg, which was then run by HAWS. As the only couple participating in the course, we were honoured with a special invitation to the team by the principal at the time, Col Chauhan. Additionally, we were privileged to have an entire cottage to ourselves, while the other participants shared accommodation.
All power to Major General Bruce Fernandez and his ‘white devils’. May their tribe increase.
T.M. Vallikappen,
On email.
Your cover story on our mountain warriors was moving, shedding light on the struggles endured by the Army to protect our nation. The HAWS serves as the crucible where potential candidates are transformed into the guardians and gladiators who keep India safe. Far from the comfort of their family and friends, these brave souls endure tremendous pressure and hardship, all for their beloved motherland.
Reading your cover story has sparked within me an admiration for our mountain warriors and ignited a passion for adventure.
Suhail P.,
On email.
THE WEEK has shed light on the challenges faced by Indian soldiers in the Himalayas. Their bravery and selfless service deserve the highest recognition and appreciation.
As the wife of an Army officer, I can easily understand the sacrifices that soldiers make. My gratitude to THE WEEK for highlighting their work and training.
Praveen Thimmaiah,
On email.
Your cover story deeply moved me. My grandfather and maternal uncle were both in the Army. While my grandfather is no longer with us, his memories live on through the values he instilled in us.
Growing up in a defence family is in itself a unique form of training. Discipline and obedience were the cornerstones of our home, and freedom was something we cherished every single day.
Sarita Wariyer,
On email.
Not easy
It won’t be easy for the AAP to return to power in Delhi (‘Battle of the sons’, January 26). The BJP is highly energised and will leave no stone unturned against Arvind Kejriwal, and the people are frustrated by his unfulfilled promises and antics.
While Atishi is a capable leader and an efficient administrator, her influence remains largely overshadowed by Kejriwal’s control.
Vignesh Nagpal,
On email.
Address the challenges
The establishment of a dedicated ministry to oversee the development of the northeastern states has been instrumental in addressing the region’s unique challenges. Likewise, a specialised ministry on fostering the eastern states could further accelerate the regions’s progress (‘Eastward ho!’, January 26).
Sachidananda Satpathy,
On email.
Odisha’s initiatives to enhance connectivity, combined with its rich maritime heritage, position the state as a vital gateway for trade in the region. By capitalising on its resources and strategic location, Odisha can play a pivotal role in driving the national vision of regional integration and sustainable development.
Sanjay Chopra,
On email.
Trump likes India
Donald Trump is unlikely to pose a threat to India. After all, he was elected to protect American interests (‘Don’s new dawn’, January 26). It is also widely acknowledged that Trump has a favourable view of India and her leader, Narendra Modi.
When was the last time an American president and an Indian prime minister shared such a strong rapport? With Trump and Modi set to meet soon, their camaraderie is bound to leave everyone impressed.
Rahul Verma,
On email.
Not only has his threat to annex Greenland and Panama but also his proposal to impose a 100 per cent tariff on BRICS nations should they initiate de-dollarisation underscored Trump’s arrogance. It is a fact that the Trump administration is governed largely by corporate interests. It has further taken steps to destabilise the political, economic and social fabric of the world.
The pride of nationalism and sovereignty should empower our government to confront the challenges posed by Trump.
K.S. Ramamurthy,
On email.
Will Aiyar come back?
I sincerely believe that an author who has written extensively on various topics should not deny ardent readers the privilege of accessing his valuable contributions.
May I request THE WEEK to encourage Mani Shankar Aiyar to continue as a columnist, as his insights greatly benefit thousands of readers like me.
N. Jagannathan,
On email.