Why are foreigners
overcharged?
In India, tickets are needed to enter several archaeological and historical places, monuments, museums, parks and other tourist sites. The collection, may not be large as compared to the money spent on the staff and upkeep of the place but, helps significantly. There are different rates for adults, children (either free up to a certain age or half rate beyond an age) and for groups. Ironically, at most of the above places, the foreign tourists pay more. Organisers of seminars and conferences hike the registration fees for foreign participants. Even the hotels have different tariffs for foreigners.
It does not make sense to have differential rates for ‘us’ (locals) and ‘them’ (foreigners) and such a system is present in many countries. At the touristic places, the latter do not get any additional benefits or facilities. During seminars and conferences, all the delegates are treated equally and at the hotels all have access to the same services. Then why are foreigners charged more? Is it because of the presumption that they can afford to pay and a part of a country’s economics depend on tourists?
India could take a lead and follow the saying, “Atithi Devo Bhava,” (Guest are gods) in letter and spirit. The foreigners should not be overcharged for entry tickets while hotels and event organisers should not fleece them. Remember Uncle Sam is watching and there could be rapid reciprocal actions!
Sridhar D’Iyer, Caranzalem
Goan diaspora win
accolades in UK
In probably an unprecedented acclaim for the Goan diaspora in the United Kingdom, the House of Commons bestowed upon Goans in the UK lavish praise for the contributions made towards various aspects of life which in particular as my friends from the UK told this writer that Swindon has become a throbbing and pulsating little cameo as an area inhabited mainly by Goans and now thriving through their sheer dint of hard work, a credit that was achieved through years of diligent service by Goans.
This writer remembers having worked with a Notary Public and has fond memories of having contributed by providing services to Goans aspiring to obtain Portuguese nationality, a grace that the Portuguese government provided for three generations of Goans beginning from those born before the liberation of Goa, which was instrumental in providing avenues for those seeking to find employment especially in the United Kingdom.
It should be the endeavour of the Goans in UK to further build on this commendation in a manner that will benefit both Goa and the United Kingdom, and thus become a shining example of mutual co-operation wherein Goans achieve greater share in nation building, an integration more beneficial especially with respect to the United Kingdom with the Goan diaspora acting as a role model for others to follow.
Elvidio Miranda, Panjim
Show concern for
stray animals
As the summer season has set in, it is necessary for humans to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. However, spare a thought for the stray animals and the birds. Sadly humans have taken away the natural water sources from these animals and birds. It may not be possible to restore these water sources but we humans can give them some relief. The District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has reportedly urged citizens to provide water for stray animals and birds by placing water bowls outside homes and business establishments while at the same time ensuring that the water is kept clean.
Changing the water from the bowls regularly is vital also to address concerns over mosquito breeding. This has to be a people’s movement. Article 51A(g) of the Indian Constitution, mandates that every citizen of India has a duty to "protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures". Another important aspect that needs to be kept in mind is that before starting to drive a four-wheeler or a heavy vehicle, it is absolutely necessary to see if there are any stray animals resting under the vehicle. In order to protect from the scorching heat, stray animals could be sleeping under the vehicles since we humans have cut most of the trees that provide shade.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
SC ruling sends
strong message
That the Supreme Court slamming Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi for his “prolonged inaction” and sitting on the ten key Bills re-passed by the State Assembly, is not only a blow to his smack of arrogance, but a slap on the face of the ruling BJP as well.
The landmark judgment reinforces the constitutional principle that governors, especially those in the non-ruling BJP states, cannot arbitrarily withhold legislative assent. The SC’s ruling sends a strong message about maintaining democratic processes and respecting the will of elected representatives.
The historic judgment is likely to have broader implications on the role of governors across Indian states, especially in cases where relations between the Raj Bhavan and elected governments are strained. It also marks a significant assertion of judicial oversight in preserving constitutional propriety and democratic processes.
Ranganathan Sivakumar, Chennai
Govt needs to wake
up to reality
This has reference to the report ‘Proposed US bill threatens to scrap post-study work permit’ (Herald April 10, 2025).
So, the American dream further seems to remain just a dream with US tightening the rules for foreign students with regard to work programme. The new bill is likely to affect lakhs of Indian students presently in the US. Now coming down to the basics. Why are Indians students going abroad, especially to the US for further studies? How about creating suitable Infrastructure and providing quality, affordable education within our country? Where is our focus, is it only on irrelevant issues?
It's time the government wakes up to reality and take corrective measures in right earnest. Let's forget about the American dream!
Melville X D'Souza, Mumbai