Letters to The Editor — September 21, 2026 - The HinduPublished - September 21, 2026 12:24 am ISTClimate actionIndia’s lower per-capita emissions and progress on renewable capacity are significant, but climate responsibility cannot be discussed only through present-day averages (Front page, September 20). India’s rising energy demand, urbanisation and industrial growth require a credible transition strategy. Greater investment in green public transport, energy-efficient buildings, storage technologies and decentralised renewable power can reduce emissions. In addition, developed countries should provide predictable climate finance and technology access. In the end, a practical approach should combine equity, accountability and measurable targets, rather than competing narratives.A. Myilsami,CoimbatoreThe real testA ‘bloated’ medal tally at the Asian Games is fine, but it can also create an illusion of sporting progress when several events lack Olympic-level depth.The real test remains the Olympics, where India’s performance has repeatedly exposed the gap between regional dominance and global competitiveness. Celebrate medals, certainly, but measure sporting progress by performance against the world’s best.Harsh Pawaria,Rohtak, HaryanaImmersions and lakesI wish to highlight the severe environmental toll after idol immersions in Bengaluru’s water bodies. The annual immersion of thousands of idols made of Plaster of Paris and painted with synthetic colours releases heavy metals such as lead and mercury into lakes. This can poison aquatic life, damage local flora and fauna, and introduce toxic substances into the human food chain through bioaccumulation, posing serious health risks. Tradition and nature need not be in conflict. Citizens and organisers must consciously shift to natural clay idols and non-toxic colours to ensure that our celebrations preserve rather than pollute the environment.Sowmiya Devi Rammohan,BengaluruDumping festival idols into our local lakes is getting out of hand. These huge structures are covered in toxic chemical paints and made of Plaster of Paris, which pollutes the water. If we want to save our shrinking lakes and water bodies, the government must completely ban chemical paints and non-biodegradable materials. Our celebrations should not end up destroying the environment.Shreshy Bhardwaj,BengaluruPublished - September 21, 2026 12:24 am ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }