TAX ON BOOKS: The government has imposed 17 per cent sales tax on the import of books. This is, indeed, a shameful act as the cost of imported books has already risen due to the nose-diving value of Pakistani rupee. Besides, the cost of paper is also rising, making even the local books expensive. The whole scenario will further discourage the book-reading culture in the country. Is there any book-lover among the government high-ups who would look into the issue?

Kamran Noorani
Karachi

SAVE YOUNG MINDS: Social media is one of the factors that contribute to perception-building which has an immense effect on one’s personal and social life. From harsh realities to doctored lies, people are exposed to every sort of information on these platforms. A study at a university in the United States revealed that social media damages human psychology. People try hard to remove their differences to fit in the surroundings and that corrupts the young minds severely.

Abrar Hussain Mahar
Ghotki

UREA SHORTAGE: The artificial shortage of urea in Kashmore has affected thousands of acres of wheat farms in the ongoing season. A bag of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertiliser is being sold at Rs2,500 against the receipt of Rs1,830. The local administration is part of the problem because it is protecting those who are exploiting the farmers. Action must be taken forthwith against all the corrupt.

Gulmeer Mazari
Kashmore

CULTURAL ACTIVITY: The Sindhi variety of wrestling, known as ‘Malh’ and ‘Malakhro’, is a cultural sport of the province. The game needs techniques and strength, and competitions mark almost all traditional fairs in villages and towns. Such a sport, if promoted, can bring youngsters in the fold of healthy and competitive activities away from a number of other futile and even harmful activities. The relevant departments should promote this local activity by awarding stipends to the wrestlers.

Sajjad Hussain Cheehani
Agra, Sindh

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2021