Turnout is bound to increase in India’s April elections

Our readers have their say on International Women's Day, Arab hospitality, pets and Modi

The BJP has dominated Indian electoral politics since Mr Modi came to power in 2014. Reuters

I write in reference to your article Indian general election to begin voting on April 11 (March 11). Himendra Mohan Kumar's article on the fast approaching Indian general elections was a riveting read. Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to all his countrymen to turn out in large numbers to exercise their right to vote. This time round, the election battle is certain to be very tough and I am personally confident that the voter turnout will increase on the 65.4 per cent witnessed in 2014. If Mr Modi retains his position as prime minister, overcoming Congress's young, dynastic leader Rahul Gandhi, that will be an important victory for his agenda and legacy. But whether Mr Modi can actually deliver on many of the promises he made in 2014 remains to be seen. The electoral commission will deploy soldiers on election day to protect the voting booths. After all, you can never be too careful in events as significant as this.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Now is the time for true gender equality worldwide

I write in reference to your article International Women's Day will remain necessary until worldwide equality is achieved (March 8). Unfortunately, the heavily inflated male ego and a general lack of confidence among many men are still preventing too many women from reaching their immense potential. The time for true gender equality in the home and the workplace truly has come.

Name withheld by request

Hospitality runs in the veins of Arabs everywhere

I refer to your article Why more Emiratis are choosing a career in the hospitality industry (March 11). Hospitality is one of the most positive qualities of the people of the Arabian Peninsula and its runs in the veins of Emiratis and Arabs at large. They are truly formidable hosts. I think it is a great thing for them to make a career out of.

Miguel Llorente, Dubai

Desire for cute pets cannot outweigh animal suffering

I write in reference to your article 'Lonely Loris' found abandoned in Dubai gets new home (March 11). These creatures are trafficked into the country, causing unimaginable suffering for them. They are very popular pets, but few owners understand or respect their very specific needs. We need to stamp out this worrying trend of poor care and abandonment.

Claire Wyness, Abu Dhabi

People should investigate the animal before trying to acquire one. Research would show them that is it quite simply not a suitable pet. Don’t get me wrong, the slow loris is adorable, but the suffering of the animal should never be outweighed by the desire for a “cute” pet in your home.

Sarah Lloyd, United States