Apropos of 'Bipolar world order is here to stay'; what unfolded in Beijing during Trump's visit was not merely a bilateral summit between two rival powers.

It was a high-stakes negotiation whose outcome could have direct implications for India's security, economic interests and geopolitical relevance. New Delhi's leverage grew substantially during years of intense US-China rivalry because American policymakers viewed India as a balancing power against Beijing. As Washington moves from confrontation toward managed coexistence with China, India risks losing part of that geopolitical advantage.

SS Paul, Nadia (West Bengal)

MSMEs can get a boost

Apropos of 'India, Italy elevate relations to special strategic partnership'; a key area of significant potential for lasting collaboration between the two countries is in the domain of MSMEs, which form the backbone of both economies. Italy's famed industrial districts or 'distretti industriali' contain a rich diversity of small businesses which employ cutting-edge technology, invest heavily in R&D, have strong brand presence in a range of products and produce for world markets. They are trailblazers in flexible and lean manufacturing, which is a model for developing countries. Indian MSMEs can offer scale, skilled labour and efficiency honed through generations; combined with high-end technology, they can foster synergy between both countries.

Chander Shekhar Dogra, Jalandhar

Local issues may get sidelined

With reference to 'Simultaneous polls'; while the idea of saving money and time through 'One Nation, One Election' sounds good, we cannot look at our democracy only through a financial perspective. India is a diverse country with a strong federal structure. Clubbing national and state elections together risks sidelining local issues. Voters might easily get confused between Central policies and regional needs, giving an unfair advantage to the ruling party. Managing practical problems, like what happens if a state government falls before completing a full term, remain a huge challenge. Our democratic values and regional identities are far more important than mere convenience or cost-cutting.

Krish Bareja, Panipat

Luxury vs minimalism

Apropos of 'Hospitals neglected'; India's Department of Space has been allocated

Rs 13,705.63 crore for the financial year 2026-27 to explore outer space. However, in many states, especially Punjab and Haryana, district hospitals are functioning without CT scan, MRI and ICU facilities for lack of funds. These medical services are basic necessities. Also, AAP won on the promise of giving the best health services to the public and Haryana is riding piggyback on the double-engine sarkar. Yet the situation is like buying silk pyjamas to sleep in a cardboard box.