
Letters to The Editor — February 17, 2026
Viability challenge
The SHANTI Act has revived debates on nuclear liability, but the real question is whether opening nuclear energy to private players is financially viable (Text & Context, February 13, 2026). With huge capital costs, long timelines, and uncertainties — including technology, human resources, and geopolitical risks — economic returns are unlikely to attract industrial giants. While liability concerns dominate discussion, analysis should also consider whether prestige in high-end technology is enough incentive to mobilise the enormous investment needed. Criticism due to understandable concerns on nuclear liability should be supplemented by economic viability analysis and associated information to present the full picture.
N. Ramamoorthy,
Mysuru
In Colombo
With a combination of explosive batting and incisive bowling, India proved too strong for Pakistan on a high-stakes stage, making a statement of intent for the remainder of the tournament. But is this cricket rivalry overhyped, propped up by slogans such as “war minus the shooting” — a phrase George Orwell coined in 1945 to criticise excessive nationalism in sports?
R. Sivakumar,
Chennai
Published – February 17, 2026 12:24 am IST



