The Indian Army is among the finest in the world, having proven its strength and professionalism time and again. Consistently ranked among the most powerful armies globally, 2025 once again demonstrated why the Indian Army commands such respect (‘Era of the new normal’, January 25).
What stands out is the dignity and courtesy with which our Army officers conduct themselves, treating everyone with respect.
The Army does not interfere in internal affairs or exert itself beyond its mandate. This restraint is what makes it truly unique and worthy of admiration.
T.L. Prasad,
On email.
The year 2025 has opened new dimensions in India’s military evolution. While gaps do exist, our defence forces are steadily working to overcome the challenges. This year—2026—demands constant vigilance, as Pakistan could resort to mischief at any time.
Operation Sindoor will, in all likelihood, continue this year, and I am sure our armed forces would have learnt from past shortcomings.
Akashdeep Chalia,
On email.
I read the interview with General Upendra Dwivedi with much interest. He is a no-nonsense soldier who understands how to lead the force forward, backed by the firm support of the political leadership and the people of the country.
In contrast, many Pakistani generals display a lack of professional conduct and public decorum. Recently, Pakistan’s military spokesperson came under severe criticism after he winked at a woman journalist. It is unfortunate—and regrettable—that India has to contend with such a neighbour.
Vismay Mathur,
On email.
Pakistan can be managed militarily without much difficulty, but China remains a far greater strategic challenge. At present, India is not on par with China in terms of overall military capability, and complacency could prove costly—as history has shown us.
How India manages China is a question that demands serious reflection from our political, military and diplomatic leadership. Persistent pressure from Beijing will continue, and the challenge lies in finding effective ways to counter it without getting drawn into a full-blown war.
Radhe Shyam Trivedi,
On email.
Waiting for evolution to catch up
Using the notorious T. rex as a metaphor, Anita Pratap conveyed her point with class, ease and substance—as always (‘Soundbite’, January 25).
While one’s thoughts may immediately drift to the vicious predator now roaming the most economically developed country in the world—one that places revenge above reform—it is perhaps more fitting to turn our gaze inwards. To the beasts that roam in our own beautiful land: those who speak endlessly of progress but act little, those who divide along caste or creed instead of uniting in the cause of humanity, those who choose superstition over reason, and those who mislead rather than guide.
It is high time an implosion resets the scene. Otherwise we are left waiting for evolution to catch up.
Manu Krishnan,
On email.
DMK in a strong position
No matter how aggressively the BJP pushes from here on, it is unlikely to establish a strong foothold in Tamil Nadu (‘Ally-dallying’, January 25). At best, the party can hope for a split in anti-BJP votes between the DMK and actor Vijay’s party, which may offer it marginal advantage. Even in such a scenario, the BJP is unlikely to secure more than five or six seats.
The DMK, meanwhile, appears well placed to return to power comfortably. As for Vijay’s party, while his rallies may draw large crowds, only a fraction of those are likely to vote for it.
Aishwarya Shankar,
On email.
The Congress’s best option is to remain within the DMK-led alliance. Moving out of it would significantly reduce its chances of winning seats. It is surprising that even in Tamil Nadu the Congress appears to have several ambitious leaders but none with the power to garner votes.
In this context, the DMK would do well to allocate a larger share of seats to the Congress, and offer meaningful cabinet representation should the alliance return to power.
Devika K.S.,
On email.
Ensure success
ISRO must take all necessary steps to ensure that failures such as PSLV C-62 are not repeated (‘Fire, smoke and soaring worries’, January 25). The organisation is well respected across the world, and setbacks of this nature inevitably reflect on both India’s stature and ISRO’s standing.
Vyom Prakash,
On email.
ISRO is taking on far more than it should at this stage, and that overextension is beginning to show. There is no need for undue haste. The pressure to be fast, cheap and reliable—all in one go—is a recipe for disaster.
G. Murali,
On email.
Fascinating insights
Congratulations to THE WEEK for having brought a much-needed cheer in an otherwise gloomy global scenario (‘Heard by the herd’, January 25). While the healing and calming impact of music on humans and animals alike is well known, Plumes offered a fascinating insight into the kind of music different animals respond to.
What was deeply upsetting, however, was the unimaginable abuse some animals endure at the hands of their owners.
Suman Anand,
On email.