The last few posts were all related to my MBA sojourn, primarily because that's been been occupying large chunks of my time over the last six months. In between, I did manage to squeeze in time to read Amitav Ghosh's Sea of Poppies. I very rarely like epic Indian fiction which tends to go on and on without really going anywhere. A Suitable Boy is a case in point. However, Ghosh's novel is different.
It's fast-paced yet descriptive, bringing to the forefront India's contribution to the Opium trade and its impact on the local communities. At the same time, it manages to evoke a vivid and raw image of the life of a sailor. The book seems to be well-researched as the author has managed to include lingo that is suitable to the period and the occasion. Moreover, in order to capture the mood of the times, the author uses Hindi words in English (a precursor to Hinglish ?), thereby lending a more phonetic feel to the language of the book.
In the course of the story, it addresses various ills of the times - Sati, Opium, Untouchability, Racism, Imperialism, Missionary zeal etc. However, it does so without judging the characters, and therein lies its charm. There is also a sense of humor pervading through the book, a sense of hope, a sense that better things lie in store for the characters.
Being the fist instalment of a trilogy, I can only wait in anticipation of the next two books. As I simultaneously read The White Tiger, I couldn't help but wonder why the Booker wasn't awarded to Ghosh. Perhaps time will correct this error with Book II of the trilogy.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Videshi v/s Swadeshi MBA
With all the time on my hands these days, I can now afford to post twice in one day :)
There has been some heated debate on the ISB group about whether to go for an MBA from the US in these troubled times. I too have sailed in the same boat until last week and can very well identify with the conflict. Having been admitted to UCLA Anderson and CMU Tepper, in addition to ISB, I was momentarily unsure about which option to pursue.
To tell you the truth, this is an inherently personal choice. I had given the GMAT only so that I could apply to ISB. Later, I had to consider the question of what to do if I didn't get in and that's when I started researching US universities. Gradually, I came to respect and admire some of the schools.
Even before I started applying to US universities, I was cognizant of the cost factor involved. Shelling out 60-70 lacs for a two-year course would be a challenge. Therefore, I had divided my applications into 3 categories:
As someone on the PG forums put it - ISB, the place to be :)
There has been some heated debate on the ISB group about whether to go for an MBA from the US in these troubled times. I too have sailed in the same boat until last week and can very well identify with the conflict. Having been admitted to UCLA Anderson and CMU Tepper, in addition to ISB, I was momentarily unsure about which option to pursue.
To tell you the truth, this is an inherently personal choice. I had given the GMAT only so that I could apply to ISB. Later, I had to consider the question of what to do if I didn't get in and that's when I started researching US universities. Gradually, I came to respect and admire some of the schools.
Even before I started applying to US universities, I was cognizant of the cost factor involved. Shelling out 60-70 lacs for a two-year course would be a challenge. Therefore, I had divided my applications into 3 categories:
- "Dream" schools such as Wharton, Sloan, Stanford, where I would have gone irrespective of the cost
- "Schol" schools where I would have gone if the admission was accompanied by a good scholarship
- "Safeties" where I would have gone if not admitted anywhere else
- I wanted to stay in India
- I wanted a quick turnaround post-MBA
- I wanted a cost-effective course without compromising quality
- Placements: I have heard of students from UCLA, Darden, Tuck etc being unable to find jobs. International students find it difficult anyway since most companies are unwilling to get into the visa tangle and don't always earn close to 6 figures.
- Internships: For career changers like me, internships play an important role. As companies become cautious, it will become difficult to locate relevant internships, thereby directly affecting my chances of securing the job I want
- Funding: I don't have any rich relatives in the US. Without any non-co-signor loans being made available by universities (after Citi withdrew the CitiAssist program) and the lack of sizeable scholarships, I would find it virtually impossible to cobble together the required amount. Of course, I could apply to schools like Marshall and Kelley, but the quality of the program would suffer, an option I am not prepared to accept.
- Visas: The lottery system gives no guarantees of getting a visa after your MBA. Worst case scenario - Come back to India with a HUGE loan on your shoulders.
- Indian Alumni & Brand Awareness: The strength of the brand and alumni associations in India is likely to be small when compared to ISB and IIMs. The benefit I would accrue is likely to be minimal.
- Time & RoI: I would be spending the better part of the next 10 years under a mountain of liabilities. Plus, a two year course would be more time consuming.
As someone on the PG forums put it - ISB, the place to be :)
The ISB interview
The decision and planning that had begun in July '07 before I left for Canada acquired another milestone I received a call for an interview from ISB. After doing well in my GMAT and writing what I thought were coherent essays, I felt reasonably confident of at least being interviewed. Still, it was a relief to receive the official email in my inbox.
My interview was at Taj Lands End, Bandra. The Bandstand is one of my favorite spots in Mumbai, right after Marine Drive and it's always a pleasure to look out over the Arabian Sea. However, I was a little concerned that the panel in question might already have been fatigued by the time they got to my interview at 5:30 PM.
Anyways, the day started off rather badly. My suit wasn't ready, had to wear a blazer, which actually turned out to be not so bad. Combined with the Raj Thackeray fiasco, Mumbai was still tense. As it turned out, it would have taken a complete bloackade to stop me from attending arguably the most important interview of my life.
Mom and Dad were around for moral support and a quick drive. We reached waaaay ahead of time. The attendant wouldn't allow me to start on the essay till 30 mints before the scheduled start. I spent some time freshening up and chatting up the other candidates. Expectedly, very few people from the IT/Engineering background. I felt my hopes go up a bit :)
Finished the essay for the word "ferocious". I get the feeling someone at ISB had flipped the page to "F" in the dictionary. Everyone got an f-word that day :) My slot was delayed - I guess the interviews were longer than expected. Surprisingly, nobody prevented me from continuing on the essay. That was a little odd. Ideally, everyone should get the same amount of time. However, since the coordination was not being done by ISB, I guess it could be simply an oversight. It shouldn't really the candidate anything more than 10 mints to write a 100 words, anyway.
I was called not to one of those conference rooms but to an actual residence room on the 15th floor. Looks like someone messed up with the scheduling of the meeting rooms !! Anyways, the setting was quite informal and the view was excellent. There was Ms Hema from the ad-com, a gentleman from ISB and an alumnus.
The discussion started off with Raj Thackeray. The panel expressed surprise that I had traveled from Thane while many others had rescheduled their interviews. Since the TV in the lobby had been ON, I was able to offer further developments, much to my advantage (at least, that's what I think !!).
I was asked to recap my experience so far. They were curious to know why I hadn't shifted jobs like other IT professionals. My answer was simple - I enjoyed my work at IBM. I was provided for in every way - the money wasn't bad, flexi-hours, challenging work, international experience, vertical growth, WFH. What more could a guy want. They were keen to know whether I'd go back to IBM after ISB. Sure, I replied, provided the opportunity exists and fits. There followed a discussion about sabbaticals, policies etc. Hopefully, I managed to show that I had done my homework and was seriously considering the alternative. I feel many candidates will be asked this question, especially entrepreneurs, since the placements aren't likely to be great for the CoMMX.
We moved on to my blogs. There was a long discussion on affirmative action and other posts. We managed to cover the role of the government in daily affairs, censorship etc. In between, there was a quick reference to my strengths and weaknesses and to my stay in Bahrain and Canada. The most interesting part was regarding the loyalty management domain. My functional expertise really helped me out in describing the three avenues of growth for such programs.
All in all, it was a very pleasant experience. Of course, doubts started creeping in the moment I reached home, but there I saw an email from CMU requesting an interview and a whole different cycle started !!
My advice to other candidates:
1) Know yourself and your application
2) Don't bullshit. If you don't know an answer, say so
3) Do not fabricate stuff that you have no clue about
4) Stay positive, exude confidence in your abilities and be relaxed
5) Take initiative in directing the conversation if you feel it's going downhill
Hope this post helps others to prepare for their interviews.
Edit:
A brief comment about my profile. I am an electronics engineer by qualification and hold a B.Tech from IT-BHU. My professional experience consists of the 4.5 years with large MNC in software services, some of it (over a year) international and some of it leading my own team (around 6 months). I covered a host of technical certifications, submitted some code assets and won a few awards during this time, finally being recognized as the top 5% across India.
I've traveled a lot and spent close to 15 years in the middle east. My academics have been consistent, sometimes even eye-catching and include 90% + on most exams, a scholarship from CBSE and a 1st class in Engg. I generally enjoy reading, blogging and playing the tabla in my spare time.
My interview was at Taj Lands End, Bandra. The Bandstand is one of my favorite spots in Mumbai, right after Marine Drive and it's always a pleasure to look out over the Arabian Sea. However, I was a little concerned that the panel in question might already have been fatigued by the time they got to my interview at 5:30 PM.
Anyways, the day started off rather badly. My suit wasn't ready, had to wear a blazer, which actually turned out to be not so bad. Combined with the Raj Thackeray fiasco, Mumbai was still tense. As it turned out, it would have taken a complete bloackade to stop me from attending arguably the most important interview of my life.
Mom and Dad were around for moral support and a quick drive. We reached waaaay ahead of time. The attendant wouldn't allow me to start on the essay till 30 mints before the scheduled start. I spent some time freshening up and chatting up the other candidates. Expectedly, very few people from the IT/Engineering background. I felt my hopes go up a bit :)
Finished the essay for the word "ferocious". I get the feeling someone at ISB had flipped the page to "F" in the dictionary. Everyone got an f-word that day :) My slot was delayed - I guess the interviews were longer than expected. Surprisingly, nobody prevented me from continuing on the essay. That was a little odd. Ideally, everyone should get the same amount of time. However, since the coordination was not being done by ISB, I guess it could be simply an oversight. It shouldn't really the candidate anything more than 10 mints to write a 100 words, anyway.
I was called not to one of those conference rooms but to an actual residence room on the 15th floor. Looks like someone messed up with the scheduling of the meeting rooms !! Anyways, the setting was quite informal and the view was excellent. There was Ms Hema from the ad-com, a gentleman from ISB and an alumnus.
The discussion started off with Raj Thackeray. The panel expressed surprise that I had traveled from Thane while many others had rescheduled their interviews. Since the TV in the lobby had been ON, I was able to offer further developments, much to my advantage (at least, that's what I think !!).
I was asked to recap my experience so far. They were curious to know why I hadn't shifted jobs like other IT professionals. My answer was simple - I enjoyed my work at IBM. I was provided for in every way - the money wasn't bad, flexi-hours, challenging work, international experience, vertical growth, WFH. What more could a guy want. They were keen to know whether I'd go back to IBM after ISB. Sure, I replied, provided the opportunity exists and fits. There followed a discussion about sabbaticals, policies etc. Hopefully, I managed to show that I had done my homework and was seriously considering the alternative. I feel many candidates will be asked this question, especially entrepreneurs, since the placements aren't likely to be great for the CoMMX.
We moved on to my blogs. There was a long discussion on affirmative action and other posts. We managed to cover the role of the government in daily affairs, censorship etc. In between, there was a quick reference to my strengths and weaknesses and to my stay in Bahrain and Canada. The most interesting part was regarding the loyalty management domain. My functional expertise really helped me out in describing the three avenues of growth for such programs.
All in all, it was a very pleasant experience. Of course, doubts started creeping in the moment I reached home, but there I saw an email from CMU requesting an interview and a whole different cycle started !!
My advice to other candidates:
1) Know yourself and your application
2) Don't bullshit. If you don't know an answer, say so
3) Do not fabricate stuff that you have no clue about
4) Stay positive, exude confidence in your abilities and be relaxed
5) Take initiative in directing the conversation if you feel it's going downhill
Hope this post helps others to prepare for their interviews.
Edit:
A brief comment about my profile. I am an electronics engineer by qualification and hold a B.Tech from IT-BHU. My professional experience consists of the 4.5 years with large MNC in software services, some of it (over a year) international and some of it leading my own team (around 6 months). I covered a host of technical certifications, submitted some code assets and won a few awards during this time, finally being recognized as the top 5% across India.
I've traveled a lot and spent close to 15 years in the middle east. My academics have been consistent, sometimes even eye-catching and include 90% + on most exams, a scholarship from CBSE and a 1st class in Engg. I generally enjoy reading, blogging and playing the tabla in my spare time.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
My GMAT Experience
For all the help and encouragement I received from the web in my GMAT preparation, here is my contribution to the pool of knowledge and experience out there.
Firstly, my score: Quant: 50, Verbal 44, Overall 770, AWA 5.5. The high overall score meant that I secured a 99 %ile. A caveat - I've had all my schooling in English and I have an IT/Engineering background. So if something sounds too condescending, I do not intend it to be so.
Well, I gave my GMAT in June in Montreal, Canada. I had decided a year before that I wanted to give the GMAT. So I had ample time to mentally prepare myself for the exam. I believe this is a crucial aspect. In order to go beyond the usual 720, you need to set yourself up to imagine the ideal score. The more time you have to imagine it, the better it will be. This approach allows you to focus and gives you a target that you can then work towards in quantitative terms. I had set myself a target of 780/6.0.
I started my preparation in earnest in Feb 2008, thereby giving me 4 months of solid preparation time. Throughout the period, I had a dedicated time slot of 1.5 - 2.0 hours each day, irrespective of work pressure. Since I was staying alone at the time, I was able to completely disengage myself from all social activities. No partying, no socializing for 4 months. In short - I became a monk.
When I took the first diagnostic test on GMAT Prep in Feb, I got a 720 with zero preparation. When I investigated the breakdown, my Quant scores was 48 but Verbal was less than 40. So, I knew that the focus had to be on sharpening my verbal skills. I bought the usual material - OG and Kaplan. I also started preparing from the LSAT questions. Even though these questions are really really tough, they will make GMAT seem like cakewalk later. I think the Kaplan 800 series is also excellent, since they really make you understand the difference between a good score and a great one.
I didn't give any test other than GMAT Prep. Mainly because the Kaplan CD I had bought didn't work. I believe this was a mistake on my part and I encourage others to take as many tests as possible. However, I solved several SCs and Quant questions from my CAT material as well as LSAT CRs and RCs. Needless to say, all this was in addition to OG and Kaplan.
When I had done everything, I solved them again and again, until I didn't have to think in order to realize which answer was right - It came to me almost instinctively. I believe this played a crucial part in helping me beat the time on the actual test. For those suffering from sever verbal deficiency, I have only 1 suggestion - Read, Read and Read. In those 4 months, read anything and everything you can get your hands on. It will help you understand the correct grammar and identify the gaps in your abilities.
To prepare for the AWA, I started this blog :) and prepared answers for around 10-15 questions that are provided by GMAC. There's not much you can do about AWA and personally I doubt if it helps; TOEFL gives a much better picture anyway.
The second GMAT Prep test I took netted me 750, with verbal improving to 41. However, I realized that I had messed up my first 10 questions. Irrespective of what books say, if you answer the 1st 10 questions correctly, it does help - mainly because the questions towards the end become easier. That way, you are not faced with time pressure in the last few critical minutes.
On D-Day, I arrived almost 1.5 hrs early. Thankfully, they allowed me to take the test immediately. Carry an energry drink and some snacks for the breaks. You need to keep the sugar levels up for optimal performance. Take all the breaks. It helps you refocus. I had decided that I wanted to get rid of the AWA as quickly as possible. I believe that typing out essays fatigues the mind and I wanted to remain fresh. So instead of the usual 1 hr, I finished mine in 40 minutes and went into the break.
During the Quant and verbal sections, I paid closer attention to the 1st 10 questions and I was fairly confident that I'd gotten them right. Also, I felt the overall level was pretty close to what I had on the sample tests. No surprises. I was able to save considerable time on middle questions and finished each of the sections almost 10 minutes ahead of schedule. I would like to stress that do not put yourself under too much pressure for each question. Also, do not make it an ego issue. If you don't know the answer, it's unlikely that you will know it after staring at it for 5 minutes. Eliminate 2 choices, guess and move on.
Before clicking on the final submit button, I was expecting around 740. I was pleasantly surprised at the 770. The AWA I got was 5.5, a tad disappointing but I guess in proportion with the effort I had put in.
And remember, GMAT is not the be-all and end-all of the MBA application. Your employment, profile, academic acheivements and other interest play an equally important role. The GMAT will only serve to highlight your application from within the pile that is received by the Ad Com every year.
Well, that's about it, I guess. If you have any questions, please leave a comment.
Firstly, my score: Quant: 50, Verbal 44, Overall 770, AWA 5.5. The high overall score meant that I secured a 99 %ile. A caveat - I've had all my schooling in English and I have an IT/Engineering background. So if something sounds too condescending, I do not intend it to be so.
Well, I gave my GMAT in June in Montreal, Canada. I had decided a year before that I wanted to give the GMAT. So I had ample time to mentally prepare myself for the exam. I believe this is a crucial aspect. In order to go beyond the usual 720, you need to set yourself up to imagine the ideal score. The more time you have to imagine it, the better it will be. This approach allows you to focus and gives you a target that you can then work towards in quantitative terms. I had set myself a target of 780/6.0.
I started my preparation in earnest in Feb 2008, thereby giving me 4 months of solid preparation time. Throughout the period, I had a dedicated time slot of 1.5 - 2.0 hours each day, irrespective of work pressure. Since I was staying alone at the time, I was able to completely disengage myself from all social activities. No partying, no socializing for 4 months. In short - I became a monk.
When I took the first diagnostic test on GMAT Prep in Feb, I got a 720 with zero preparation. When I investigated the breakdown, my Quant scores was 48 but Verbal was less than 40. So, I knew that the focus had to be on sharpening my verbal skills. I bought the usual material - OG and Kaplan. I also started preparing from the LSAT questions. Even though these questions are really really tough, they will make GMAT seem like cakewalk later. I think the Kaplan 800 series is also excellent, since they really make you understand the difference between a good score and a great one.
I didn't give any test other than GMAT Prep. Mainly because the Kaplan CD I had bought didn't work. I believe this was a mistake on my part and I encourage others to take as many tests as possible. However, I solved several SCs and Quant questions from my CAT material as well as LSAT CRs and RCs. Needless to say, all this was in addition to OG and Kaplan.
When I had done everything, I solved them again and again, until I didn't have to think in order to realize which answer was right - It came to me almost instinctively. I believe this played a crucial part in helping me beat the time on the actual test. For those suffering from sever verbal deficiency, I have only 1 suggestion - Read, Read and Read. In those 4 months, read anything and everything you can get your hands on. It will help you understand the correct grammar and identify the gaps in your abilities.
To prepare for the AWA, I started this blog :) and prepared answers for around 10-15 questions that are provided by GMAC. There's not much you can do about AWA and personally I doubt if it helps; TOEFL gives a much better picture anyway.
The second GMAT Prep test I took netted me 750, with verbal improving to 41. However, I realized that I had messed up my first 10 questions. Irrespective of what books say, if you answer the 1st 10 questions correctly, it does help - mainly because the questions towards the end become easier. That way, you are not faced with time pressure in the last few critical minutes.
On D-Day, I arrived almost 1.5 hrs early. Thankfully, they allowed me to take the test immediately. Carry an energry drink and some snacks for the breaks. You need to keep the sugar levels up for optimal performance. Take all the breaks. It helps you refocus. I had decided that I wanted to get rid of the AWA as quickly as possible. I believe that typing out essays fatigues the mind and I wanted to remain fresh. So instead of the usual 1 hr, I finished mine in 40 minutes and went into the break.
During the Quant and verbal sections, I paid closer attention to the 1st 10 questions and I was fairly confident that I'd gotten them right. Also, I felt the overall level was pretty close to what I had on the sample tests. No surprises. I was able to save considerable time on middle questions and finished each of the sections almost 10 minutes ahead of schedule. I would like to stress that do not put yourself under too much pressure for each question. Also, do not make it an ego issue. If you don't know the answer, it's unlikely that you will know it after staring at it for 5 minutes. Eliminate 2 choices, guess and move on.
Before clicking on the final submit button, I was expecting around 740. I was pleasantly surprised at the 770. The AWA I got was 5.5, a tad disappointing but I guess in proportion with the effort I had put in.
And remember, GMAT is not the be-all and end-all of the MBA application. Your employment, profile, academic acheivements and other interest play an equally important role. The GMAT will only serve to highlight your application from within the pile that is received by the Ad Com every year.
Well, that's about it, I guess. If you have any questions, please leave a comment.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Why Foss-ing is good for health
No – that's not a typo !! I'm referring to the Free Open-Source Software and not the practice of dental hygine. I began my journey into this strange world a month back, after starting to try out Ubuntu's Hardy Heron Linux distro on my laptop.
Well, so far, my experience has been positive. While I admit that mine is not a full blown Linux installation since it is running as a loop-mounted device, it did offer me ample scope to get a feel of the new OS before taking the plunge into a full-blown installation. Overall, I feel Linux is a worthy alternative to users who are looking to break away from Windows and cannot afford, or do not prefer, the Mac OS X.
The first and foremost thing I noticed is how much a linux installation has improved. When I had last attempted to install Linux around 4 years back, I was so frustrated at making things work that I had to finally abandon the attempt. With Linux distros floating around today, you get Live Cds, Wubi, USB installation and what not. I feel this will go a long way towards easing newbie worries. Further, the installation went off remarkably smoothly. Everything on my machine was detected out of the box. There was some minor tweaking required to get the OS to run like I wanted, but it didn't amount to more than a couple of hours.
As regards the stability of the system, I have not expirienced any major crashes with Gnome, although KDE (the Kubuntu version) did cause me some headaches. Further, it follows the repeatibility rule – every operation if repeated in the same circumstance yields the same result. Always. This is not the case with Windows. For example, for no apparent reason, Vista sometimes refuses to connect to my router.
Linux security is not even comparable with Windows. Running without any explicit firewall or anti-virus protection, my system has been doing fine – no hacks encountered. Further, because of the lack of these resource-intensive programs, my mid-range laptop positively flies !! From what I have read, viruses on Linux only exist as proof-of-concept, since the user-access-based security makes it really difficult to gain control of the vital resources of the system via a virus.
As a developer, I feel it is of the utmost importance that Linux ships with almost all the necessary compilers for C++, Java etc. This is one of the pillars of FOSS, since it allows the user to look at what lies beneath the hood and make changes if required. It allows a developer like me to be productive. Given the tools, most people will put them to use. I feel this is one of the major drawbacks with Windows – users are assumed to be too lame to take matters into their own hands.
The eye-candy is amazing as well. The effects available with Compiz and emerald far outstrip the default ones provided by Windows Vista – all at a much lower hardware cost. While I use Gnome, I've seen KDE offer even more eye-candy. Besides, there are different types of desktop managers – Xfce, KDE, Gnome, etc, which allow the user to choose the desktop as per the hardware configuration and their preference.
I've heard complaints that Linux doesn't offer the same variety of programs that Windows does. I think that's a load of hogwash. Linux doesn't offer the same programs – what it does is offer the user a much larger variety of open source programs which are more elegant and get the tasks done in a better manner than the windows programs that people are used to. Sure, there is a learning curve, but believe me, it's worth it.
Linux makes people think. It makes people use the command line, edit hitherto unheard of configuration files and understand almost all the principles of computer science. It teaches the user to be unafraid of crashing the system and returns control of the relationship between a user and the computer to the user.
Finally, Linux is free. Free as in beer and free as in freedom. I believe this is a HUGE motivation to most users. Imagine a system which is better than everything Mr Gates has to offer, at zero cost to the user. I agree that there might be many who may not like Linux. However, what nobody can deny is that Linux has given the user a choice where none existed before. Ultimately, the user can decide what OS to use. To quote HP, it has made the computer personal again.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Affirmative Action
The Indian Supreme Court recently upheald the government's decision to reserve 27% of the seats in educational institutions for sections of society that are termed backward. Needless to say, a few heckles have been raised by this decision. However, if analyzed dispassionately, it appears to be an interesting verdict. I would like to present my view of backwardness and affirmative action and compare it with the current attitude.
Backwardness in our times can essentially be divided into two:
Economic backwardness – where the individual (or group of individuals) is not part of the natural progression of society due to a lack of disposable funds. This may, or may not, result due to social backwardness
Social backwardness – where an individual or a group is not part of the natural progression of society due to the prevalent attitudes, traditions and mores. This may, or may not, result due to economic backwardness.
In most cases, both these types are related, one occassionally feeding the other, resulting in a vicious cycle of sorts. For the purpose of this discussion, let us assume that there is at least a section of society, say 50%, which is not backward. The lower this number is, the more acute the problem.
Affirmative action refers to the series of steps that might be taken by the progressive group of society to reduce the backwardness of other sections of society and make social progress an inclusive concept. These actions might involve uplifting the economic and social status of certain backward sections. The term was first used in America, as part of the Civil Rights movement by African Americans. Similar questions face India now, not in terms of race, but in terms of caste.
Historically, affirmative action has involved tackling economic backwardness. It is assumed that once economic backwardness has been tackled, social backwardness solves itself. The makers of the Indian constitution had guaged that due to the inherent discriminatory nature of the traditional Hindu caste system, not all sections of the population were being given equal opportunity. Steps were then built into the constitution to remedy this situation.
It is assumed that economic backwardness arises not due to a lack of talent on part of the group as a whole, but due to a lack of opportunities to exploit the talent. It is also reasonable to assume that other factors such as location, resources etc have no bearing on the backwardness since other sections of society at the same location would not have this problem. The solution to the question of economic backwardness, therefore, is to allow the backward sections of society to take advantage of opportunities. The first step towards this goal is to insert equality into the constitution. Once this has been achieved, however, there still remains the question of eradicating centuries of conditioning and encouraging people to take advantage of opportunities.
One way to do this was been to reserve a certain percentage of seats for backward sections of society in institutes of learning. It was hoped that a quality education would enable the students under the reservation to take advantage of the opportunities that were available. Naturally, this reservation would be at the cost of other sections of society and is likely to be opposed. The actual number decided upon is actually a balancing act driven by politics. It is the efficacy of this reservation that I question.
Experience of the American policy as well as results of the Indian policy over the past 50 years or so have shown that this does not solve the problem. Even though the education is imparted, the students in question have been unable to take advantage of the opportunities. Primary reason for this is the lack of a sound primary education which results in the students often failing or not completing higher courses. Chances for a lucrative job naturally take a hit since employers are not willing to take students with questionable academic records since other candidates with sound records are available at the same salary level.
The statement above should also suggest the solution itself: make it economically attractive for private sector organizations to employ the students and provide additional training or mentoring. Radical sections of the government have proposed a reservation in private companies as well. This would be going too far, in my opinion, and against the spirit of private enterprise.
Instead, it would be worthwhile for all three parties involved, the students, the employers and the government to consider tax rebates to compensate the private sector for additional risks and costs associated with emplying and training students of the backward sections that have not performed well academically. Ideally, the tax break should be broken down into 2 parts:
One slab for actually considering and implementing such a program – a fixed rate
A variable rate depending on the industry and the student intake in such a program
It might also be advisable for the companies to set up additional training for students which are deemed to have insufficient academic credentials. During this training period, the student might be paid a stipend instead of a regular salary. This would reduce costs during this period and also provide a more relevant education and training, making the students better prepared for the job ahead.
Since this approach does not require a fixed quota, a company may choose whichever and as many students it desires, thereby preserving the spirit of private enterprise. Of course, a lower intake from the backward sections would directly affect tax liability, thereby allowing the government to collect increased revenue to supplement its own schemes. It is, therefore, in the interest of the company to calculate an optimum number of students required and plan the intake accordingly. In addition, it would not be governed by restrictive government quotas.
Further, it should be made mandatory that any progeny of the persons in this program automatically become ineligible for further benefits. This is to avoid abusing the system even after economic upliftment to compensate for poor academic performance. Since private companies are involved, corruption from government agencies is likely to be minimized.
Over a period of time, the academic performance in higher institutions will cease to be a stumbling block for these students, since they would have a safety net. However, at the same time, they could not afford to be lax, since they are subject to the same competition as others. Other students would also not feel cheated since they would have a chance to impress prospective employers with their talent.
As time progresses, the economic status should rise gradually. However, a concerted media campaign should accompany any attempts at economic upliftment to combat existing social attitudes. The government should also set a time frame for this policy, ranging between 30-50 years, with periodic alterations to the tax rates to account for unforeseen economic forces. Failure to set a time frame would result in situations where economically poor “upper castes” feel discriminated again, a sort of reverse-discrimation.
While this may not heal centuries of mistrust, it will go a long way in making sections of the population more productive and increasing the comfort level among various part of society.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Home Happiness
Everyone feels the need for a home - A place where one can leave their troubles outside the door and find comfort and shelter. But to a person who has been on the road ever since consciousness took hold, a home is a dream. And with time, that dream is embellished even more, till finally, it becomes a mythical, abstract concept that prompts an essay such as this one !!
Contrary to popular opinion, a home is not a house. The word "house" usually embodies the physical part of the word "home". It will not however, capture the soul of the block of cement. A home is neither dependent on the size of the house, nor its opulence. To an extent, it is even independent of the people who inhabit it.
A home, therefore, is a purely a purview of the individual. It's the individual's choice as to what does or does not constitute a home. Below is a poem by John Clare:
Like a thing of the desert, alone in its glee,
I make a small home seem an empire to me;
Like a bird in the forest, whose world is its nest,
My home is my all, and the centre of rest.
Let Ambition stretch over the world at a stride,
Let the restless go rolling away with the tide,
I look on life's pleasures as follies at best,
And, like sunset, feel calm when I'm going to rest.
I sit by the fire, in the dark winter's night,
While the cat cleans her face with her foot in delight,
And the winds all a-cold, with rude clatter and din
Shake the windows, like robbers who want to come in;
Or else, from the cold to be hid and away,
By the bright burning fire see my children at play,
Making houses of cards, or a coach of a chair,
While I sit enjoying their happiness there.
I walk round the orchard on sweet summer eves,
And rub the perfume from the black-currant leaves,
Which, like the geranium, when touched, leave a smell
That lad's-love and sweet-briar can hardly excel.
I watch the plants grow, all begemmed with the shower,
That glitters like pearls in a sun-shiny hour;
And hear the pert robin just whistle a tune,
To cheer the lone hedger when labour is done.
Joys come like the grass in the fields springing there,
Without the mere toil of attention or care;
They come of themselves, like a star in the sky,
And the brighter they shine when the cloud passes by.
I wish but for little, and find it all there,
Where peace gives its faith to the home of the hare,
Who would else, overcome by her fears, run away
From the shade of the flower and the breeze of the day.
0 the out-of-door blessings of leisure for me!
Health, riches, and joy! — it includes them all three.
There Peace comes to me — I have faith in her smile —
She's my playmate in leisure, my comfort in toil;
There the short pasture-grass hides the lark on its nest,
Though scarcely so high as the grasshopper's breast;
And there its moss-ball hides the wild honey-bee,
And there joy in plenty grows riches for me.
Far away from the world, its delusions and snares —
Whose words are but breath, and its breathing but cares, —
Where trouble's sown thick as the dews of the morn,
One can scarce set a foot without meeting a thorn —
There are some view the world as a lightly thrown ball,
There are some look on cities like stones in a wall —
Nothing more. There are others, Ambition's proud heirs,
Of whom I have neither the courage nor cares.
So I sit on my bench, or enjoy in the shade
My toil as a pasture, while using the spade;
My fancy is free in her pleasure to stray,
Making voyages round the whole world in a day.
I gather home-comforts where cares never grew,
Like manna, the heavens rain down with the dew,
Till I see the tired hedger bend wearily by,
Then like a tired bird to my corner I fly.
This poem is quite representative of the expectation that I have placed on our new apartment under construction. As you might observe, the individual also feels that the home represents a culmination of achievements throughout his/her life, a place which grants him "immunity from further prosecution".
Contrary to popular opinion, a home is not a house. The word "house" usually embodies the physical part of the word "home". It will not however, capture the soul of the block of cement. A home is neither dependent on the size of the house, nor its opulence. To an extent, it is even independent of the people who inhabit it.
A home, therefore, is a purely a purview of the individual. It's the individual's choice as to what does or does not constitute a home. Below is a poem by John Clare:
Like a thing of the desert, alone in its glee,
I make a small home seem an empire to me;
Like a bird in the forest, whose world is its nest,
My home is my all, and the centre of rest.
Let Ambition stretch over the world at a stride,
Let the restless go rolling away with the tide,
I look on life's pleasures as follies at best,
And, like sunset, feel calm when I'm going to rest.
I sit by the fire, in the dark winter's night,
While the cat cleans her face with her foot in delight,
And the winds all a-cold, with rude clatter and din
Shake the windows, like robbers who want to come in;
Or else, from the cold to be hid and away,
By the bright burning fire see my children at play,
Making houses of cards, or a coach of a chair,
While I sit enjoying their happiness there.
I walk round the orchard on sweet summer eves,
And rub the perfume from the black-currant leaves,
Which, like the geranium, when touched, leave a smell
That lad's-love and sweet-briar can hardly excel.
I watch the plants grow, all begemmed with the shower,
That glitters like pearls in a sun-shiny hour;
And hear the pert robin just whistle a tune,
To cheer the lone hedger when labour is done.
Joys come like the grass in the fields springing there,
Without the mere toil of attention or care;
They come of themselves, like a star in the sky,
And the brighter they shine when the cloud passes by.
I wish but for little, and find it all there,
Where peace gives its faith to the home of the hare,
Who would else, overcome by her fears, run away
From the shade of the flower and the breeze of the day.
0 the out-of-door blessings of leisure for me!
Health, riches, and joy! — it includes them all three.
There Peace comes to me — I have faith in her smile —
She's my playmate in leisure, my comfort in toil;
There the short pasture-grass hides the lark on its nest,
Though scarcely so high as the grasshopper's breast;
And there its moss-ball hides the wild honey-bee,
And there joy in plenty grows riches for me.
Far away from the world, its delusions and snares —
Whose words are but breath, and its breathing but cares, —
Where trouble's sown thick as the dews of the morn,
One can scarce set a foot without meeting a thorn —
There are some view the world as a lightly thrown ball,
There are some look on cities like stones in a wall —
Nothing more. There are others, Ambition's proud heirs,
Of whom I have neither the courage nor cares.
So I sit on my bench, or enjoy in the shade
My toil as a pasture, while using the spade;
My fancy is free in her pleasure to stray,
Making voyages round the whole world in a day.
I gather home-comforts where cares never grew,
Like manna, the heavens rain down with the dew,
Till I see the tired hedger bend wearily by,
Then like a tired bird to my corner I fly.
This poem is quite representative of the expectation that I have placed on our new apartment under construction. As you might observe, the individual also feels that the home represents a culmination of achievements throughout his/her life, a place which grants him "immunity from further prosecution".
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