WONDERFUL SOUL: One of the prominent figures of Sindhi literature, Vali Ram Vallabh, passed away recently. Hailing from Mithi, Tharparkar, he had done his master’s in Urdu literature, and translated illustrious writings from both Urdu and English into Sindhi language. He also learned Sanskrit at a local school established by Bhagat Khemchand.

He was a mentor as well as an inspiration for literature buffs across Sindh for over five decades. While Vali Ram, the wonderful soul that he was, has left for eternity, his invaluable contributions to Sindhi language and literature will keep him alive in the hearts of the people of Sindh.

Dr Khataumal
Mithi

MENTAL HEALTH: I recently asked university students, including those pursuing PhD degrees, to name a few mental or psychological disorders. Almost all of them could not name one disorder beyond anxiety and depression. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and the International Classification of Diseases have defined more than hundred mental disorders. Pakistan has a shortage of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, to adequately meet the needs of the population. Colleges and universities may play a crucial role by establishing on-campus counselling centres and organising awareness programmes to educate students about mental health, stress management, coping strategies and available support services.

Waseem Hassan
Peshawar

CLEAN WATER: Johi in Dadu district is suffering from scarcity of clean drinking water for years. The water and sanitation system in the whole district is in a shambles. The local municipal committee should make due arrangements to supply clean drinking water by setting up more water filtration plants, and to ensure cleanliness within its area of jurisdiction.

Farooque Khoso
Johi

Published in Dawn, November 3rd, 2023