Finally, the Indian budget puts the people first

Our readers weigh in on Modi, Yemen, Syria and intermittent fasting

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) waves during a public meeting at Thakurnagar area, some 75 kms northeast of Kolkata, in the Indian state of West Bengal on February 2, 2019.
  / AFP / STR
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I refer to your article Sops for Indian farmers and middle class in election year budget (February 2). The recent Indian interim budget addressed some of the country's most pressing issues, including the farmers' loan waiver and assured annual income for their families. The income tax limit was also extended up to five Lakhs, from betwenn two and five, which is a great relief for middle class workers. A pension for laborours is another highlight.

As usual, opposition parties have expressed some displeasure, but overall this is a budget for the people. This budget reflects the will of Narendra Modi’s government to provide for the middle class, which have been neglected in the past. The opposition claim this budget is designed simply to win votes in upcoming Lok Sabha elections, but if it helps ordinary Indians, the intentions are irrelevant. Kudos to  Finance Minister Piyush Goyal.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Scars of Syrian children will take years to heal

I write in reference to Kareem Shaheen's opinion piece After surviving the conflict, the trauma of Syrian children endures (January 31). The unwarranted war and destruction in Syria, purely to satisfy the whims and fancies of a small few who call the shots, has left children with physical and psychological scars that may take years to heal. Shame on the warmongers who have caused untold suffering.

Name withheld by request

In praise of intermittent fasting and moderation

I refer to your article Everything you need to know about intermittent fasting (January 31). Yes it has been tried and tested and proven to have health benefits. I did it and I feel lighter and more energetic. I limit my fasting to three days at a time with almonds and water and protein such as egg whites. I try to eat clean four to five days per week and leave the weekend free to enjoy my favourite foods without over indulgence. The key is moderation.

Randall Mohammed, Dubai

New Yemen envoy faces a challenge to broker peace

I refer to your article New UN monitor Michael Lollesgaard will face uphill battle in Yemen (January 30). It will be tough as the Houthis, with their unpredictable nature and guidance from Iran, may try to hamper the process. Still, there is some hope that the suffering of the  Yemeni people will end.

Name withheld by request