The current ?decoupling? debate (?The decoupling is only partial?, January 18) is pure economics, non-economists must assume in the absence of knowledge to the contrary. But there is another troubling question beyond the field of economics?has India really overcome its ?Raj hangover?? Many people hanker after Western approval, and sections of the ?angrezi? media continue to sneer at desi preferences. The younger urban generation is more willing to get past their formal English schooling to scratch under the surface of Westernised gloss, but even they have many of their ?thoughts? subjugated to opinion formation mechanisms in America or Britain.
?Piyush Raina
Unburden petrol
In your debate article, (?There is no option but to hike prices?, Jan 14), the author has pertinently emphasised the need for a review of the existing level of indirect taxation on petrol and diesel. As indirect taxes account for 57% of these fuels? retail prices, the excessive dependence on petroleum products for customs and excise collections should be trimmed. With international prices for crude oil touching unprecedented levels, the government has to do a macro level of review of indirect taxes on fuels before it is too late.
?Vijay Mullaji