Many blocs, scant results
There are umpteen international groups and bodies with the white elephant, the United Nations, topping the list of those unable to draw the line on burning issues. Top leaders gather, flash toothy grins, adopt resolutions and release some press statements before dispersing. The follow-up action almost always misses the target. The United States, with its dollar strength, manipulates international happenings in its favour. India too coins catchy slogans such as “one earth, one family, one future” which mean nothing to the West. The West is only interested in continuing its hegemony. The world needs results. The West’s narrow line should be rebutted.
Govardhana Myneedu,
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
In a world riven by war, inequality and mistrust, it is jarring to note the existence of many blocs. Each claims to solve global problems, but their proliferation only fragments efforts. Amid these exclusive clubs, only one truly universal institution still stands — the United Nations. It was conceived as the bedrock of global peace and multilateral cooperation, but its role seems increasingly sidelined.
If we strengthen and reform the UN — giving it real power and relevance — perhaps we would not need so many competing groups. A reformed UN could serve as the single inclusive platform to address poverty, climate change, war and global justice. The multiplicity of summits only gives us the illusion of action.
T. Kailash Ditya,
Hyderabad
What the peace plan is
The Ukraine ‘peace plan’ is less a resolution and more a capitulation blueprint. That Ukraine should surrender territory and wager on Russia’s goodwill not to advance further, and look to the prospect of Moscow’s return to the G-8, is a tilt toward Russian interests. In truth, this mirrors shifting geopolitics around the war itself. Europe’s industrial capacity to keep Ukraine armed is eroding under the weight of sustained commitments. The U.S., after two years of political fatigue and domestic preoccupations, has lost interest. It is now a conflict defined by material exhaustion. Under war fatigue, any peace plan would be an escape hatch for weary actors in the war. Peace extracted from weakness seldom endures. It merely pauses conflict.
R. Narayanan,
Navi Mumbai
Dharmendra
The passing of veteran actor Dharmendra has left millions of cinema lovers in deep sorrow. A timeless icon of Indian cinema, Dharmendra was not just an actor but an emotion for generations. Dharmendra won hearts with his effortless charm, powerful performances and unmatched versatility. From action and drama to romance and comedy, he excelled in every genre, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire actors.
Rukma Sharma,
Jalandhar, Punjab
Called the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’, Dharmendra was one of India’s most iconic actors. With his natural acting and powerful dialogue delivery, he created unforgettable characterisation. We will miss a beloved figure in the Indian film world.
Deepika Kataria,
Chandigarh
Published – November 25, 2025 12:24 am IST
