MAILBOX

Gone with the wind
I had a pair of roller skates while growing up. I have not thought about them in years. Until I read the nostalgic cover story, that is. I miss a well written letter from a loved one and I miss a good fountain pen. But change is inevitable and we have to accept it. I enjoyed reading the story very much.
Shakil Khan
Azimpur, Dhaka

Hazardous Farming
The production of tomato is increasing every year in Bangladesh. That's good news. But I am concerned with the way farmers cultivate tomato in certain parts in the country. They engirdle the farm lands with nets to stop birds—who love ripe tomatoes—from entering into fields. In the process, birds get caught in the net and die. I saw many species of dead birds while visiting tomato farmlands in Dhunat area of Bogra. Farmers have to protect their crops but there has to be a more environment-friendly solution.  The government should take immediate steps to save birds.
Md Nazmul Islam
HSC student
Jalshuka Habibur Rahman College Bogra

A positive step of Indian HC
The High Commission of India in Dhaka recently announced that from henceforth medical visa applicants would no longer be required to obtain e-token. They can apply direct to the High Commission for visa. We applaud the move and thank the Indian High Commission for responding positively to peoples' demand. We further request the High Commission to design a mechanism for tourist visa applicants so that they are spared the inconveniences they often face obtaining visa.
Dr SN Mamoon
On email

Will there be Another Monajatuddin?
I am deeply moved by the article 'The Minstrel Journalist' published on December 26, 2014. Monajatuddin was a brilliant and conscientious writer. His passion, industry and enthusiasm should inspire journalists to produce objective reports about life in rural Bangladesh. Sometimes he risked his own life for investigating an incident. Nowadays we hardly see any journalist like him. I want to thank the writer and the Star for such a wonderful article.
Punam Nath
On Email

Photo: Anurup Kanti Das

Politics of 2013 in 2015?
A survey among 33 developing countries by PEW Research Centre entitled "Spring 2014 Global Attitude Survey" reveal that about 65 percent people of Bangladesh participate in the political meetings and processions. Among the 33 countries the people of Bangladesh are the most active politically. But people's lives are being held hostage by 'political activities' such as hartal and oborodh. January 5 was observed by the ruling party  as “the victory of democracy" while the same day was observed  as "the death of democracy"  by the BNP. There must be a consensus among them on how to move forward and run the country.  We want peace. Enough is enough.
Md Israfil Hossen
Bijoy Ekattor Hall
University of Dhaka

Cultivate Stevia Rebaudiana
It is estimated that more than 15 million people in Bangladesh have been diagnosed as diabetic patients so far and a significant portion of population have not been identified but are suffering from diabetes. White cane sugar, white beet sugar, corn syrup, honey, molasses, pancake syrup and brown sugar are simply prohibited for diabetic patients. But diabetic patients crave sugar like everyone else.  A solution may be within reach. Dr Stefan Ripich in the book titled 'The 30-day Diabetes Cure Featuring the Diabetes Healing Diet' has mentioned that  'Stevia Rebaudiana' is a plant native to South and Central America, where it is commonly known as sweet leaf, sugar leaf or simply Stevia. Stevia extract is 300 times sweeter than table sugar, yet they have zero calories.
Because Stevia has a negligible effect on blood glucose level, it is an ideal natural sweetener to use in moderation as we begin to control our carbohydrate cravings. Stevia is also recommended for people being treated for obesity and high blood pressure. Stevia is widely used in Japan as a sugar substitute. In Bangladesh, it is possible to grow Stevia and make a variety of sweet dishes with Stevia extract instead of sugar.
The government should take steps to promote the cultivation of Stevia in Bangladesh. This will be a big relief for diabetic patients with a sweet tooth and those who are prone to diabetes.
Mohd Ashraf Hossain
Bashaboo, Dhaka

Indian Bangla channels
This has reference to Zahiruddin Babar's letter published on January 9, 2014. I could not agree with him more. The Indian Bangla channels telecast in Bangladesh are doing more harm than good. It is high time government banned controversial Indian channels.
Ayesha Siddiqua
New Eskaton, Dhaka