Missile power

Sir,

Missiles play a crucial role in defence of a country especially a country of the size of India. India started developing missiles when integrated missile development programme was launched in 1983. Before that we had a few SAM missiles and some aircraft fitted missiles which were mostly of Russian origin. We had no missiles that were made within the country.

China started building its missiles which were long range ones tipped with nuke war heads. They started deploying them in Tibet and were essentially aimed at India. Pakistan on the other hand started developing its missiles copying them from North Korean missiles. It was imperative that in order to secure our defences we make our own missiles. Under Integrated missile development programme we started building five missiles named Prithvi, Trishul, Akash, Nag and Agni. Except Trishul all the four missiles have been completed.

Agni-I and Agni-II will remain the back bone of India's missile deterrence in the missiles which can attack every part of Pakistan given its range of 700-900 km. Designed to take a one thousand Kilogram of Nuke or conventional war head Agni-I is one of the most sophisticated missiles in the world. Agni-II is a long range two stage missile which has a range of 1500 to 2000 kilometer. India is building its longer range Agni-III and Surya Missiles which will have a much longer range. Meanwhile 'Sagarika', a sea based submarine launched ballastic missile has also been tested. Missiles will have an important role to play in future wars. Indian scientists have done country proud by producing State of art missiles.

Yours etc...
Rajinder Singh
Sainik Colony
Jammu

Save Dal lake

Sir,

Dal lake is the most well known tourist spot in the State. Located at the feet of beautiful hills of Zabarwan Dal lake commands a most beautiful views in the world. Culturally, the lake is also important. On its banks is the famous Shrine of Hazaratbal. On the Southern portion of the lake stands the peak of Shankracharya on which a Shiva temple which is thousands of years old stands proud. The lake is visited by lakhs of tourists drawn from all parts of the world. But, unfortunately the lake is dying a slow death. One hundred years ago it was spread over an area of fifty to seventy square kilometers in area. Human wastes and exereta from hundreds of house boats have reduced water health in the lake. Weeds have reached to menacing proportions. The Government is mooting over the idea of installing biodegradable toilets called 'Rota loo'. Saverage discharge from nearby localities is also finding its way into the lake. Waste water and other poisonous affluents also find its way into the lake.

The lake has to be saved. The placid waters of the lake have to be kept clean and free from pollution. If the health of water of the lake is good it will sport a good and healthy quatic life also. Dal lake is the pride of the State. The Government must do every thing at its command to ensure that the lake retains its pristine glory.

Yours etc...
Neha Sharma
Link Road,
Jammu

Plant trees

Sir,

In order to make our environment clean and replenish oxygen and pure air the only way open to us is to plant trees. Planting trees is an insurance against the evil effects of pollution. When we purchase a car or any other vehicle it means that we are contributing more towards the pollution. The lethal exhausts from cards and other vehicles sent into air like carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and other particulates which not only contribute to global warming but affect our health also.

Hence we have to think on new lines in order to control pollution. Whenever we buy a car we insure it against any possible theft or an accident. In the same way whenever we purchase a vehicle let us make a pledge that we will plant at least two trees as a sort of insurance against the toxic exhaust of the vehicle. Trees are a sure insurance against pollution. So why not to start thinking about planting trees whenever we purchase a vehicle let us make a pledge that we will plant at least two trees per year as a sort of insurance against the toxic exhaust of the vehicle. Trees are a sure insurance against pollution. So why not to start thinking about planting trees whenever we purchase a vehicle. Let us make it a pledge for the decade that we are able to plant as many trees as possible.

Yours etc...
Suresh Sharma
Jammu