Paradise under threat
‘Rome of the Orient’ of yesteryears, Goa should have remained a paradise. With its palm-lined shores, crystal-clear rivers, and a rich variety of flora and fauna, Goa’s natural beauty could have rivalled the most scenic destinations in Asia, had its environment been nurtured with care. The region’s hundreds of freshwater springs, offering medicinal waters, added to its allure. Goa’s unique cuisine, infused with distinct Portuguese flavours, is among the most delicious in the world. Goa is also famous for Mancurad mangoes, cashew nuts, and cashew feni and coconut feni that offer a distinct Goan taste. The culture, music, and dance of the region further enrich the experience. Had Goa been guided by a leader dedicated to preserving its heritage and natural beauty, it could have remained a premier global tourist destination. If a naturalist, environmentalist, conservationist, and heritage advocate were to assume leadership, the restoration of this paradise might still be within reach.
Stephen Dias, Dona Paula
Double delight
Saturday and Sunday (March 8 and 9) turned out to be red letter days in the annals of Indian history. Music maestro Ilaiyaraaja created history at midnight on Saturday by becoming the first Asian musician to present his first-ever full length western classical symphony titled Valiant at London’s Eventim Apollo Theatre. Ilaiyaraaja mesmerised the audience comprising not only music lovers but also world-renowned music composers. The audience gave the Indian maestro a standing ovation. With his great feat, Ilaiyaraaja has got his name etched in gold in the hall of fame of music along with those of Beethoven, Bach, Mozart and Haydn, pioneer composers of western classical symphony and considered the ultimate in music. India feels proud of the achievement of Ilaiyaraaja and Tamil Nadu is in extra jubilation celebrating the magical music feat of its son of the soil. And on Sunday, the Indian cricket team brought glory to the country by winning the ICC Champions Trophy defeating the formidable New Zealand by four wickets and an over on hand, in a nail-biting thrilling final. With this most desired and cherished victory, India has avenged its defeat to the Kiwis in 2000. Skipper Rohit Sharma and his team deserve accolades and rewards for their consistent progress right from the start to the finish of the tournament.
Tharcius S Fernando, Chennai
Stifling days ahead
There has been no respite from heat for Goa. The Indian meteorological department (IMD) has extended the yellow alert heat warning for Goa till March 11 and predicted hot and humid conditions in the state during this time. According to the IMD, maximum temperatures are very likely to prevail between 35°C and 37°C. Climate change is rapidly intensifying. Scientists warn that the cooling effects of La Nina may not be sufficient to offset the rising temperatures in future. Cutting down forests is increasingly influencing the climate and the earth›s temperature. This adds enormous amounts of greenhouse gases to those naturally occurring in the atmosphere, increasing global warming. As India grapples with unusually high temperatures, the IMD has predicted an early and intense summer this year, with prolonged heatwaves. According to experts, human-caused climate change is leading to warmer winters and shorter springs. The extreme temperatures and resultant atmospheric conditions adversely affect people as they cause physiological stress. Heatwaves are caused by trapped air, which typically circulates in large prevailing winds. But when trapped over one region, it warms to unusual temperatures due to sunlight. Scientists warn of increased El Nino events, leading to extreme weather and heightened heatwaves.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Whimsical Trump
The once-celebrated friendship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, which was marked by grand gestures and public displays of camaraderie, now seems to have evolved into a more transactional relationship. India’s recent move to purchase American defence equipment, seemingly at the expense of its longstanding relationship with Russia, highlights the changing dynamics of international alliances. Russia, a reliable partner in times of need, has been a cornerstone of India›s strategic ties, cultivated over years of mutual trust and proximity. Trump›s ‘America First’ agenda, focused on strengthening the US economy, has frequently alienated allies and disrupted global trade through tariffs. Countries like China, Canada, and several European nations have retaliated, showing discontent with his policies. On the world stage, Trump’s ultimatums concerning the Ukraine-Russia conflict and the Israel-Hamas war have largely been met with resistance. His often inconsistent and hollow rhetoric has failed to garner the respect of the international community. Countries such as Iran and North Korea continue to pursue their nuclear ambitions without being swayed by his threats..
Everette Assis Telles, Margao
