Gundert Chair
pride of Malayalis
Thunchath Ezhuthachan
Malayalam University
proposes to establish Hermann Gundert Chair at Tubingen University in
Germany on October 9.
This will be a proud moment for Malayalis.
The university’s vice chancellor, K. Jayakumar, deserves praise for the decision. Established only about two years ago with limited infrastructure, the university has made rapid strides under Mr. Jayakumar who has formulated very distinct programmes.
C. Chandrasekharan
Kozhikode
Cut in fixed
deposit rates
Senior citizens who live on their monthly savings will bear the brunt of the cut in fixed deposit interest rates. From hovering at a high of 9.5 to 10 per cent, the interest rates recently dipped to eight and settled at a low 5 per cent.
If this continues, the livelihood of senior citizens, especially those without monthly pension, would be in peril.
The only option would be to bank their hard-earned savings in private financial institutions and face the risk of losing it in old age.
Again, with expenses running high and incomes remaining stagnant, the picture remains bleak for those who invest in the safety of fixed deposits.
On the contrary, the government is increasing the pension of employees with periodic revisions in dearness allowance.
That the consumer price index and wholesale price index are at a low is no answer to the cut in interest rates.
The elderly who live on their savings require financial security and independence. I request the bank authorities to look into the matter.
Balakrishnan Pookkunniyil
Kozhikode
Prevent drug abuse
The government should take stern action against alcoholism and drug abuse. The youth seem to be picking up these habits early. Many cases of divorce are linked to alcoholism and the resultant financial crisis. Efforts should be taken to end the availability of drugs..
K.K. Kunhikannan
Koyilandy
Readers may write to the City Editor, The Hindu, either by post at First Floor, Shaaz Building, Near Sarada Hospital, Kannur Road, Kozhikode – 673 006, or by e-mail to kozhikodehindu@
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