Whatever, I could make out from media reports, that both Harbhajan and Dhoni, did not even care to inform the ministry on their unavailability for the prestigious padam shree awards. It's a real shame and at the same time, should act as an eye opener for the government, who so profusely shower all accolades to cricketers. Olympic boxing champions, who brought India glory in the global arena, were ignored, when it came to conferring Padam shree. There are innumerable sports people, who deserve this award, but it seems that the government's criteria for awards is governed more by popularity quotient of the sportsmen than his real objective achievements.
In no way, the accolades that Vijendra singh, brought to India by winning the bronze medal in Boxing (olympics) is less that Dhoni and harbhajan's achievements. I would rate it higher, as boxing is a solo sport and too much depends on individual performance.
This also reflects the arrogance that cricketers have in them, due to all the attention and adulation that is heaped on them. To, refuse to attend a function of such significance due to flippant reasons just goes on to show, what respect they have for such awards.
I don't think, they deserve this award and the government instead of creating laws to obviate such act of shameless impunity, should right away nullify and announce the withdrawal of padma shree from Dhoni and Bhajji.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
The Trinity:Mulayam-Laloo-Paswan
One of the most interesting thing of this general election has been the coming together of vowed enemies of yesteryear's on one platform, with an aim to cling to power at center at whatever cost. Yes! mulayam, Laloo and paswan, could be a good plot for a bollywood film called the "opportunist trinity'.
The manner of their alliance, leaves not even an iota of doubt about their motives, there is nothing veiled or enigmatic, the motto is clear, together we can bargain power, with whoever comes to center (I am sure till now that BJP will not be considered).
Individually, both Laloo and Mulayam, has huge stakes if they are not able to cling to power, both can't afford to be in a state of affairs, where they have to face a hostile Center and equally hostile state.
At state level, elections are still years away, and the interregnum, without power could prove quite costly. Moreover, fading away of icons from public memory in nothing new, and both lalu and Maulayam can't afford the same. For, the first time, both RJD and SP are not able to take Muslim votes for granted. In Bihar the MY (Muslim yadav), equation has been badly shattered, while in UP, the induction of Kalyan singh to SP, is being called a hara kiri, done by Mulayam singh, as far as Muslim votes are concerned.
Kalyan Singh, who has been widely perceived to be the man behind Babri Masjid demolition, will always be a pariah for the muslim community.
As far as Paswan is concerned, I would call his position not as precarious as Lalu and Mulayam. Paswan as it is would not be hoping to win more than 5-6 seats, and all his strategy would be based on the same. A forecast of hung Parliament, where even one MP can make a difference, paswan would have a role to play, moreover, Paswan, would not be as inimical to joining hands with parties like BJP, as Mulayam and Laloo would be.
Whatever the outcome of the elections, the thing worth waiting for would be what fate do the trinity meet, if they are able to hold to the power, through collective bargain, it would be considered a master stroke and if they don't muster up enough numbers, history would condemn them for their short sightedness...
The manner of their alliance, leaves not even an iota of doubt about their motives, there is nothing veiled or enigmatic, the motto is clear, together we can bargain power, with whoever comes to center (I am sure till now that BJP will not be considered).
Individually, both Laloo and Mulayam, has huge stakes if they are not able to cling to power, both can't afford to be in a state of affairs, where they have to face a hostile Center and equally hostile state.
At state level, elections are still years away, and the interregnum, without power could prove quite costly. Moreover, fading away of icons from public memory in nothing new, and both lalu and Maulayam can't afford the same. For, the first time, both RJD and SP are not able to take Muslim votes for granted. In Bihar the MY (Muslim yadav), equation has been badly shattered, while in UP, the induction of Kalyan singh to SP, is being called a hara kiri, done by Mulayam singh, as far as Muslim votes are concerned.
Kalyan Singh, who has been widely perceived to be the man behind Babri Masjid demolition, will always be a pariah for the muslim community.
As far as Paswan is concerned, I would call his position not as precarious as Lalu and Mulayam. Paswan as it is would not be hoping to win more than 5-6 seats, and all his strategy would be based on the same. A forecast of hung Parliament, where even one MP can make a difference, paswan would have a role to play, moreover, Paswan, would not be as inimical to joining hands with parties like BJP, as Mulayam and Laloo would be.
Whatever the outcome of the elections, the thing worth waiting for would be what fate do the trinity meet, if they are able to hold to the power, through collective bargain, it would be considered a master stroke and if they don't muster up enough numbers, history would condemn them for their short sightedness...
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Cricketer's understanding the meaning of Bottomline
Why should Saurav ganguly care, what sharukh Khan feels about his batting style? Why should rahul Dravid give two hoots to, what, vijay mallaya feels about his captaincy? Well, these questions seems quite egregious to ask. But, IPL has changed the rules of the game, when you get a Price you have to pay for it, is the simple rule of the game called IPL.
Cricketers who have been bought for huge prices, to play for respective IPL teams owned by corporates or rich individuals, are suddenly realizing the meaning of bottomline, ROI, which hitherto was relegated to the boardrooms of corporates. Yes!! IPL, has changed the way cricket is played and monetized. It has brought unprecedented glamour, money and opportunities for all the stakeholders.
I only hope , this glamour and glitz, does not make our Icons forget that the ultimate test of glory is winning for the country.
Cricketers who have been bought for huge prices, to play for respective IPL teams owned by corporates or rich individuals, are suddenly realizing the meaning of bottomline, ROI, which hitherto was relegated to the boardrooms of corporates. Yes!! IPL, has changed the way cricket is played and monetized. It has brought unprecedented glamour, money and opportunities for all the stakeholders.
I only hope , this glamour and glitz, does not make our Icons forget that the ultimate test of glory is winning for the country.
ICL should Encash on IPL's popularity
If ICL does not ring a bell in your mind, well, it is Indian cricket League, a parallel cricket series and team (apart from BCCI), announced by Mr. Subhash Chandra, ESSEL Group. The timing of ICL's announcement could not have been better, Indian cricket had reached its nadir, with failure to qualify even in the quarter finals of world cup, people across India were disillusioned, and wanted to vent out their anger on the team and state-of-cricketing affairs. ICL was the answer to it, there was a great noise around its launch, but with time, unexpectedly India team rose like phoenix, becoming well neigh invincible.
Public memory as it is short, and the success of India cricket team, coupled with launch of IPL by BCCI, made the memory of ICL fade away. For me success of any event is directly proportional to the recall of the same, which subsequently converts to sponsorships and advertisements. I can hardly recall even the names of the ICL teams, leave alone the players. But, I do know, that Mr. Chandra with his tenacity, is continuing the series, and honoring all the commitments he made to the players.
So what should one do to make ICL a brand, that it attracts advertisers and sponsorship, If I were in the branding team of ICL, I would have suggested a very drastic action, that would have created a flutter in the media and subsequently in the minds of people.
My suggestion would be to hold an open challenge to IPL's winner to play the ICL's winning team in any format 20:20 or 50:50. This would have brought some controversies like snubbing, denial, refusal, maybe by ICC or BCCI, but ultimately the need for the event could have been created by public debate and sheer weight of the challenge.
Who would not want to witness at least once, the clash between the David and the Goliaths, public always wants entertainment, and anything which excites and entertains be it a notion or an event, is always prized. Advertisers are always looking for concepts and events, which excites public imagination. I think the ICL-IPL challenge would be a perfect cocktail for both public and advertisers, a mega event, generating huge interests, and in the process, reviving ICL, which sooner or later, if something drastic does not happen, will be on ventilator.
Public memory as it is short, and the success of India cricket team, coupled with launch of IPL by BCCI, made the memory of ICL fade away. For me success of any event is directly proportional to the recall of the same, which subsequently converts to sponsorships and advertisements. I can hardly recall even the names of the ICL teams, leave alone the players. But, I do know, that Mr. Chandra with his tenacity, is continuing the series, and honoring all the commitments he made to the players.
So what should one do to make ICL a brand, that it attracts advertisers and sponsorship, If I were in the branding team of ICL, I would have suggested a very drastic action, that would have created a flutter in the media and subsequently in the minds of people.
My suggestion would be to hold an open challenge to IPL's winner to play the ICL's winning team in any format 20:20 or 50:50. This would have brought some controversies like snubbing, denial, refusal, maybe by ICC or BCCI, but ultimately the need for the event could have been created by public debate and sheer weight of the challenge.
Who would not want to witness at least once, the clash between the David and the Goliaths, public always wants entertainment, and anything which excites and entertains be it a notion or an event, is always prized. Advertisers are always looking for concepts and events, which excites public imagination. I think the ICL-IPL challenge would be a perfect cocktail for both public and advertisers, a mega event, generating huge interests, and in the process, reviving ICL, which sooner or later, if something drastic does not happen, will be on ventilator.
Monday, April 20, 2009
India launches spy satellite RISAT -2
India today announced the successful launch of RISAT-2, a spy satellite, which would help the country keep track of border movements and terrorists infiltration. Kudos to the scientist of ISRO, who made the feat look so simple. The Israeli built satellite, has advance features compared to earlier satellites, in terms of better imagery even in the worst of weather conditions, and night conditions.
Keeping in view the way Taliban, is gaining foothold in Pakistan, with the recent announcement, of their intention to make sharia the law of Pakistan, I feel it is of great strategic importance for India, to keep tab on the movements across borders, especially Pakistan.
The satellite apart from security use, will also help in disaster management, especially tracking of floods and other such natural calamities.
Keeping in view the way Taliban, is gaining foothold in Pakistan, with the recent announcement, of their intention to make sharia the law of Pakistan, I feel it is of great strategic importance for India, to keep tab on the movements across borders, especially Pakistan.
The satellite apart from security use, will also help in disaster management, especially tracking of floods and other such natural calamities.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
I am committed I want flexible timing!!!
Having talked to people across service industries, I was a bit surprised to find out that how flexible timing is becoming a bone of contention between employees and management. The logic is very simple, employees, in the services industries (which includes Fortune 500 consultancy firms) who are delivering and feel that they are on the job 24X7, want to be in office at their own convenience. They feel that if the business if not suffering and the clients are happy, what is the logic behind following a 9:30 Am reaching office discipline.
They feel that the management, is being a bit harsh, in wanting people to reach office on time, irrespective of their contribution. On the other hand, the management feels, that discipline has to be adhered to, as no organization, especially in the non-service industry allows such latitude. And any contribution of the employee is a part of their duty for which they are being compensated for.
On the face of it, the whole issue seems quite simple, but a bit of probing shows that this issue is more about asserting one's independence Vs.Organization wanting to maintain discipline.
It is true that the dynamics of the services industry is much different from any traditional industry, here client relationship, commitment to work, integrity, and team management takes a much wider role than in any other industry. The reasons are not difficult to find, as the success criterion in a service industry has always been billing and client satisfaction index.
Logically if the client is happy and the billing is on time, then noting else should matter.
I would surely want to solicit views of my readers, especially from the service industries, on what they feel about this topic???
They feel that the management, is being a bit harsh, in wanting people to reach office on time, irrespective of their contribution. On the other hand, the management feels, that discipline has to be adhered to, as no organization, especially in the non-service industry allows such latitude. And any contribution of the employee is a part of their duty for which they are being compensated for.
On the face of it, the whole issue seems quite simple, but a bit of probing shows that this issue is more about asserting one's independence Vs.Organization wanting to maintain discipline.
It is true that the dynamics of the services industry is much different from any traditional industry, here client relationship, commitment to work, integrity, and team management takes a much wider role than in any other industry. The reasons are not difficult to find, as the success criterion in a service industry has always been billing and client satisfaction index.
Logically if the client is happy and the billing is on time, then noting else should matter.
I would surely want to solicit views of my readers, especially from the service industries, on what they feel about this topic???
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Recession: Bringing sanity to job market
Being in a private sector, amidst recession is not really a good feeling, there is a sword of Damocles hanging on each one's head. There are rumors, speculations that lead to further uncertainity, as a layman its always difficult to understand the true colors of recession and how is it really impacting the economy, and subsequently our lives.
I truly believe, that India is undergoing a slowdown and not recession in truest sense of the term. Our monetary and fiscal policy has really stood the test of the day, and with so many Leviathan banks across globe's vanishing or declaring bankruptcy, Indian institutions have stood the test of the time.
I personally feel, that this slow down was imminent, as the going was to good to be true. My observations are restricted to the job market, and not a very macro one. There was a kind of an euphoria, defying all logic, youngsters, with less than two years of experience (not the IIM's and IIT's) expecting salaries and perks, much beyond their calibre and output. People had become too self centered and were overlooking the dynamic of any business, that operates in an environment. But, since it was a norm, and there were alternaltives, the employers or the companies, mostly yielded to demands.
Job hopping had become a fashion statement, and stability and long term commitment was looked down upon as weakness. Naturally good money brings better life and you tend to look at all the good things in life, which gives one, a sense of achievement and satisfaction. This led to a huge spurt in spending on consumerism, and banks and financial institutions, abetting this trend by giving credit cards, easy loans.
Alas! all good things comes to an end, and with the setting of recession, starting with the bust of Lehman Brother, the world, which seemed so good got Topsy turvy. Within no time the rules of the game changed, the same employers who pampered people for retention, brought out apt performance criterion and sometimes arbitrary, to trim down cost and work force. A whole new generation, which had never been witness to downturn, suddenly, saw an environment, where to survive you have to be diligent, disciplined and thrifty.
Suddenly, heroes turned villains, all the corporates who got into downsizing and cost cutting were labelled as shrewd, callous capitalists, who are intent on sucking the blood of innocent employees. Well I would not want to get into the morality of the debate.
One good thing which I feel this recession has brought about, is an attitudinal correction, especially among the youths, who after seeing the harsh realities of life are realizing that road to success is always through staircase and taking a lift, will always come at a price!!!
I truly believe, that India is undergoing a slowdown and not recession in truest sense of the term. Our monetary and fiscal policy has really stood the test of the day, and with so many Leviathan banks across globe's vanishing or declaring bankruptcy, Indian institutions have stood the test of the time.
I personally feel, that this slow down was imminent, as the going was to good to be true. My observations are restricted to the job market, and not a very macro one. There was a kind of an euphoria, defying all logic, youngsters, with less than two years of experience (not the IIM's and IIT's) expecting salaries and perks, much beyond their calibre and output. People had become too self centered and were overlooking the dynamic of any business, that operates in an environment. But, since it was a norm, and there were alternaltives, the employers or the companies, mostly yielded to demands.
Job hopping had become a fashion statement, and stability and long term commitment was looked down upon as weakness. Naturally good money brings better life and you tend to look at all the good things in life, which gives one, a sense of achievement and satisfaction. This led to a huge spurt in spending on consumerism, and banks and financial institutions, abetting this trend by giving credit cards, easy loans.
Alas! all good things comes to an end, and with the setting of recession, starting with the bust of Lehman Brother, the world, which seemed so good got Topsy turvy. Within no time the rules of the game changed, the same employers who pampered people for retention, brought out apt performance criterion and sometimes arbitrary, to trim down cost and work force. A whole new generation, which had never been witness to downturn, suddenly, saw an environment, where to survive you have to be diligent, disciplined and thrifty.
Suddenly, heroes turned villains, all the corporates who got into downsizing and cost cutting were labelled as shrewd, callous capitalists, who are intent on sucking the blood of innocent employees. Well I would not want to get into the morality of the debate.
One good thing which I feel this recession has brought about, is an attitudinal correction, especially among the youths, who after seeing the harsh realities of life are realizing that road to success is always through staircase and taking a lift, will always come at a price!!!
Recession and return to babudom aspiration
One thing that the global recession and the concomitant slow down in the Indian economy has brought very prominently to the fore, is the sudden spurt of interest in government and Public sector, as an employer of choice. Who could of imagined that a canara bank could get day 1 entry into the prestigious IIM's, which had hitherto entertained names like Lehman brothers and Goldman sach's, for the first day campus placement.
The sixth pay commission has also played a pivotal role in changing the perception, most of the government servants, are suddenly privy to a lot of moolah, in terms of increase pay and one time arrears. It is not surprising that banks, real estates and financial institutions have suddenly started wooing this segment, like never before.
The sixth pay commission has also played a pivotal role in changing the perception, most of the government servants, are suddenly privy to a lot of moolah, in terms of increase pay and one time arrears. It is not surprising that banks, real estates and financial institutions have suddenly started wooing this segment, like never before.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Salutation to the brave CISF men
The recent incident of CISF men fighting the Maoists, in a truly unequal battle, and saving lives of many Nalco staff along with precluding the Maoist from gaining access to armoury, at the NALCO bauxite mine site, Panchapatmali hill top, Orissa, is a true story of valour and sacrifice.
Had it not been for the few jawans of the CISF, resisting the attempt of Maoists to loot the armoury, it could have led to a greater disaster with much wider ramifications.
My sincere salutations to all the CISF people who fought with the Maoists, displaying exemplary courage and even sacrificing their life in the process.
It needs a whole lot of character and valor to stand upright and fight when death stares in the eyes.
Had it not been for the few jawans of the CISF, resisting the attempt of Maoists to loot the armoury, it could have led to a greater disaster with much wider ramifications.
My sincere salutations to all the CISF people who fought with the Maoists, displaying exemplary courage and even sacrificing their life in the process.
It needs a whole lot of character and valor to stand upright and fight when death stares in the eyes.
Bihar tops list of LS candidates facing criminal charges
Just found an article on the web, which basis a report shows that Bihar still tops the list of candidates facing criminal charges, followed by UP. Find below the news with the links:
Bihar has topped the list of states having the highest number Lok Sabha candidates facing criminal charges so far for this year, a report prepared by NGOs has claimed.
The report, jointly prepared by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and National Election Watch (NEW), claims that out of a total 200 candidates contesting general elections, 51 contestants have been found facing various criminal charges.
The number amounts to 25.50 per cent of the total number of candidates contesting general elections from the state.
Uttar Pradesh has figured a close second with 46 candidates of a total 268 contestants in the fray facing criminal charges.
Maharashtra comes third in the list with 42 of 242 Lok Sabha candidates from the state having criminal charges against them.
In Andhra Pradesh, out of a total 314 candidates in the fray, 34 contestants are facing criminal charge, the report claims.
ADR and NEW said the report was prepared by analyzing 1,440 affidavits filed by the Lok Sabha candidates contesting from 11 states in the first phase of polls. NEW comprises more than 1,200 NGOs and other citizen-led organisations.
Bihar has topped the list of states having the highest number Lok Sabha candidates facing criminal charges so far for this year, a report prepared by NGOs has claimed.
The report, jointly prepared by Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and National Election Watch (NEW), claims that out of a total 200 candidates contesting general elections, 51 contestants have been found facing various criminal charges.
The number amounts to 25.50 per cent of the total number of candidates contesting general elections from the state.
Uttar Pradesh has figured a close second with 46 candidates of a total 268 contestants in the fray facing criminal charges.
Maharashtra comes third in the list with 42 of 242 Lok Sabha candidates from the state having criminal charges against them.
In Andhra Pradesh, out of a total 314 candidates in the fray, 34 contestants are facing criminal charge, the report claims.
ADR and NEW said the report was prepared by analyzing 1,440 affidavits filed by the Lok Sabha candidates contesting from 11 states in the first phase of polls. NEW comprises more than 1,200 NGOs and other citizen-led organisations.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Mulayam Singh and his atavistic manifesto
If newspaper reports are to be believed, then the manifesto of samjawadi Party (SP), led by Mr. mualayam singh, can be labeled as the most shocking and atavistic manifesto, till date. In this age of modernization when the world is a global village and economies of countries inextricably linked to each other, talking about making English redundant, use of minimal computer and discouraging mechanized farming, is going to the ridiculous.
We need to understand the difference between populist measures and measures that are retrograde, with a potential to take the country, backwards by many years.
We should realize that English per se is not really a foreign language to India, and whether we like it or not, it is the sine qua non for any development in this era.
India becoming a superpower in IT (Information technology) and generating millions of employment in BPO sector is primarily due to the the large skills of english speaking population we have.
Even countries like China, is trying to emulate India success, through imparting of English language, to its population. It is strange in this backdrop to see english as a foreign language, vitiating in any ways Indian culture. I am not against Hindi or regional languages being popularized, but not at the cost of a language, which is instrumental in furthering economy.
Similarly discouraging computerization to give jobs to more people, is like replacing cars with bullock carts, so that both the cattle's and human get more opportunities.
We need to understand that development has its own motion, and in a globalized environment, one can't fight development with such gimmicks and popular measures. If computerization is replacing people, then the same economy is also creating upteem opportunities for people in different areas.
I sincerely believe that Mulayam's manifesto remains on papers, and not ever gets to see the reality of the day, and I am sure its more a rhetoric than reality.
We need to understand the difference between populist measures and measures that are retrograde, with a potential to take the country, backwards by many years.
We should realize that English per se is not really a foreign language to India, and whether we like it or not, it is the sine qua non for any development in this era.
India becoming a superpower in IT (Information technology) and generating millions of employment in BPO sector is primarily due to the the large skills of english speaking population we have.
Even countries like China, is trying to emulate India success, through imparting of English language, to its population. It is strange in this backdrop to see english as a foreign language, vitiating in any ways Indian culture. I am not against Hindi or regional languages being popularized, but not at the cost of a language, which is instrumental in furthering economy.
Similarly discouraging computerization to give jobs to more people, is like replacing cars with bullock carts, so that both the cattle's and human get more opportunities.
We need to understand that development has its own motion, and in a globalized environment, one can't fight development with such gimmicks and popular measures. If computerization is replacing people, then the same economy is also creating upteem opportunities for people in different areas.
I sincerely believe that Mulayam's manifesto remains on papers, and not ever gets to see the reality of the day, and I am sure its more a rhetoric than reality.
Babri Masjid and Ram temple
My own view on the issue of Babri masjid demolition and Ram temple creation as an issue, as I always feel that all religion teaches unity and no religion in the essence has ever endorsed violence:
I have never heard a God,
Ask for a home to reside,
Nor I have seen an angry god,
When the same is pulverized....................
I have never heard a God,
Ask for a home to reside,
Nor I have seen an angry god,
When the same is pulverized....................
Saturday, April 11, 2009
JD (U) first party to have Sahabhagi in its manifesto
Nitish Kumar led JD (U), takes to its credit for being the first party in India to have "Sahabhagi" in its manifesto. Sahabhagi is a concept of participatory governance where common citizens are also taken into account, in terms of decision making power. The basic idea behind this concept is to make government more decentralized and participatory.
Well, ultimately what matters is the implementation of the concept in spirit, that one has to wait and watch, but the very fact that such concept has made to the manifesto and political agenda of a party is laudable.
At least we all are getting to see Bihar in news for being 'FiRSt", for all the right reasons.
Well, ultimately what matters is the implementation of the concept in spirit, that one has to wait and watch, but the very fact that such concept has made to the manifesto and political agenda of a party is laudable.
At least we all are getting to see Bihar in news for being 'FiRSt", for all the right reasons.
Friday, April 10, 2009
India Elections a fertile ground for new business ventures
If you look at the kind of budget political parties have allocated for e-campaigns, it is substantial to create a whole new model of business, around this concept. Just think of it, right from leaders of known stature like Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, to smaller not so known leaders, have their own blogs to promote their ideas. These blogs are being written and maintained by group of professionals, who are getting due remuneration for it.
In times to come this trend will continue and scale up in magnitude. In India there are innumerable tech geeks, Internet aficionados, who have great mastery over blog creation, writing, social media usage, who can surely utilize their skills to promote political parties and individuals in a focused manner.
There could be a cohesive business model around Internet consultancy or use of Internet to promote parties and ideas. In terms of investments all one would need would be time, broadband connection and access to free blog creation (which is there in 100's).
I feel, in this time of downturn, people should explore this business model and who knows, in times to come we might have an Indian Google or Yahoo of political campaign creation and promotion.
In times to come this trend will continue and scale up in magnitude. In India there are innumerable tech geeks, Internet aficionados, who have great mastery over blog creation, writing, social media usage, who can surely utilize their skills to promote political parties and individuals in a focused manner.
There could be a cohesive business model around Internet consultancy or use of Internet to promote parties and ideas. In terms of investments all one would need would be time, broadband connection and access to free blog creation (which is there in 100's).
I feel, in this time of downturn, people should explore this business model and who knows, in times to come we might have an Indian Google or Yahoo of political campaign creation and promotion.
India Elections with Google, Yahoo, and Internet
Close to the heels of yahoo, google has also announced the launch of a website for Indian elections. This truly goes on to show, that elections like cricket, is becoming a good tool of monetization, for a lot of companies, with Internet brands like Yahoo and google, leading the flock. And why not, if we look at the kind of money being pumped in by political parties, unofficially people say that a single general election entails spending to the tune of whopping USD 2-4 Billion.
Online campaigning with social media, blogs, twitters, is truly the hall mark of this general election, heralding a new era of campaigning, aimed at targeting the "youths" and other people, for who, Internet is a way of life and primary source for gathering information.
Obama's election campaign can be seen as a watershed in the usage of web in political campaigns. Well, it would be unfair to compare in anyways, US with India in terms of Internet, defining users opinion, but still, in times to come, this medium, will be an integral part of all political campaigns.
I would not be surprised to see all our representatives having a blog address, on their cards, and rustic MLA's and MP's taking a lesson or two on Internet and its nuances.
This could be a good business model for budding entrepreneurs, to start up consultancy and Internet political advisory firms. The target audience will never be bereft of cash:)
Online campaigning with social media, blogs, twitters, is truly the hall mark of this general election, heralding a new era of campaigning, aimed at targeting the "youths" and other people, for who, Internet is a way of life and primary source for gathering information.
Obama's election campaign can be seen as a watershed in the usage of web in political campaigns. Well, it would be unfair to compare in anyways, US with India in terms of Internet, defining users opinion, but still, in times to come, this medium, will be an integral part of all political campaigns.
I would not be surprised to see all our representatives having a blog address, on their cards, and rustic MLA's and MP's taking a lesson or two on Internet and its nuances.
This could be a good business model for budding entrepreneurs, to start up consultancy and Internet political advisory firms. The target audience will never be bereft of cash:)
Recession will create whole new breed of entrepreneurs
I totally agree with the contention of Mr. CK Prahalad, one of the greatest thinkers and academician of today's era, that this downturn and recession, will give rise to a whole new breed of creative and dynamic entrepreneurs. He has given a lucid logic to this thought, stating that in this time, a lot of good people, with great potential, are being laid off, and naturally these people would not sit duck, but to something to earn their living. They would most probably start their own enterprise, since there would be a lack of funds, most probably these people would use their own money to fund the ventures.
Funding their won ventures would lead to parsimony, in terms of usage of money and that would in turn lead to looking at creative opportunities of business models, where growth can be achieved using minimal funds.
Funding their won ventures would lead to parsimony, in terms of usage of money and that would in turn lead to looking at creative opportunities of business models, where growth can be achieved using minimal funds.
Shoe at Chidambram: Impulse than politics
The recent hurling of shoe at Mr. Chidambram, is certainly a despicable act by any standard. However, if we probe the mens ria of Jarnail Singh (the scribe who hurled shoe at Chidambram), I would label his act as a misdemeanor than a grave criminal act.
Going back to 84 till now, the Sikh riot is one incident which the government has not been able to efface from the psyche of Sikh's, and if we introspect at the enormity of the riot, it will not be an easy thing to achieve. The memories of the riots will always evoke strong response from Sikhs, who feel that the propagators of the riots are yet to be punished, rather they are going scot free.
In this backdrop, Mr. Tytler getting a clean chit, just on the eve of election, does smell of rat, and can lead to myriad questions, which one would want to the government to answer.
CBI per se, over a period of time is losing credibility and is being seen more as a tool of government manipulation than a credible unbiased agency. Mr. Jarnail singh's action represented the wider discontent the sikh community has over this issue and he rightly wanted clarification on it.
I do appreciate Mr. Chidambram for his stoic reaction to the whole incident and asking the security guys to be gentle with Jarnail, but the government should look at the wider issue, and its time to introspect on the role of so-called investigative agencies.
I am also not sitting on judgement on Mr. Tytler, as he was also given a clean chit by CBI during BJP government and that time BJP was silent on the whole thing.
Going back to 84 till now, the Sikh riot is one incident which the government has not been able to efface from the psyche of Sikh's, and if we introspect at the enormity of the riot, it will not be an easy thing to achieve. The memories of the riots will always evoke strong response from Sikhs, who feel that the propagators of the riots are yet to be punished, rather they are going scot free.
In this backdrop, Mr. Tytler getting a clean chit, just on the eve of election, does smell of rat, and can lead to myriad questions, which one would want to the government to answer.
CBI per se, over a period of time is losing credibility and is being seen more as a tool of government manipulation than a credible unbiased agency. Mr. Jarnail singh's action represented the wider discontent the sikh community has over this issue and he rightly wanted clarification on it.
I do appreciate Mr. Chidambram for his stoic reaction to the whole incident and asking the security guys to be gentle with Jarnail, but the government should look at the wider issue, and its time to introspect on the role of so-called investigative agencies.
I am also not sitting on judgement on Mr. Tytler, as he was also given a clean chit by CBI during BJP government and that time BJP was silent on the whole thing.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Amar singh: The quintessential Newsmaker
Well, love him hate him but you can't ignore him, this statement cannot not be more apt and true for Mr. Amar Singh. I truly admire his capacity to be in the news or his capacity to manipulate media attention. Whether the media admits it or not, they are swayed by any conference or utterances that Mr. Singh makes, and I can't hold media responsible, for all his utterances are significant enough to hog limelight.
Be it sanjay dutt being threatened by a cabinet minister or Mr. singh being called by a don's aid, the list is endless.
Well kudos to him for being a quintessential news maker. The wannabe celebrities should take a tip or two from him.
Be it sanjay dutt being threatened by a cabinet minister or Mr. singh being called by a don's aid, the list is endless.
Well kudos to him for being a quintessential news maker. The wannabe celebrities should take a tip or two from him.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Rabri devi's remark on Nitish Kumar Bihar CM: A Bankruptcy of RJD
The recent remarks of Rabri devi on Nitish Kumar's relations with Mr. lalan singh, not only reflects the moral bankruptcy of RJD, but also shows to what contemptible level politicians can go, to pander to the prejudices of people. Well, this remark only goes on to prove that JD (U), has put RJD and LJP alliance in the back foot (for me SP does not count in Bihar), and in its supreme frustration RJD is trying all tricks of the books to defame Nitish.
Or maybe Mrs rabri devi does not understand the import of her statement and how such statements can get some applaud from the crowd, but in the long run, prove to be the road to perdition for RJD.
The very fact that all the RJD alliance members are evading media query on their response to Rabri's statement, goes to prove,that they realize the futility of personal maligning and fear it may backfire big way.
Or maybe Mrs rabri devi does not understand the import of her statement and how such statements can get some applaud from the crowd, but in the long run, prove to be the road to perdition for RJD.
The very fact that all the RJD alliance members are evading media query on their response to Rabri's statement, goes to prove,that they realize the futility of personal maligning and fear it may backfire big way.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Gazing at Eternity
Staring the sky dotted with trillion stars, much bigger than earth could ever be, gives a queer feeling and elicits myriad thoughts on our existence. Is life a serendipity or a conscious plan of a powerful force beyond our comprehension? How did life come into being Or where do we stand among the millions of stars, which is just a small portion of trillions of galaxies?
It is insane, dumbfounding, esoteric and perplexing in nature, but still these questions haunts all of us, when ever we are in peace, away from the cacophony of life.
Science with all its advancement and accolades has still not been able to give a definitive view on a very basic question on the creation of earth, or life force.
Big bang theory, coincidental mixing of gases leading to life force, all brings us to the moot question, what was there before Big Bang? How did big bang take place or who created the gas which led to life creation? All these can't happen in ad vacuo, there can never be something out of nothing.
Is there a state of consciousness, where all these can be known, or will it be an eternal mystery, I know not..............
It is insane, dumbfounding, esoteric and perplexing in nature, but still these questions haunts all of us, when ever we are in peace, away from the cacophony of life.
Science with all its advancement and accolades has still not been able to give a definitive view on a very basic question on the creation of earth, or life force.
Big bang theory, coincidental mixing of gases leading to life force, all brings us to the moot question, what was there before Big Bang? How did big bang take place or who created the gas which led to life creation? All these can't happen in ad vacuo, there can never be something out of nothing.
Is there a state of consciousness, where all these can be known, or will it be an eternal mystery, I know not..............
Will Nitish & BJP sweep Bihar elections?
I personally feel yes. But after talking to people from diverse background and vocation, I found out, that there is a school of thought which has serious misgivings about Nitish's victory in Bihar. They feel that there is a widespread but subtle undercurrent against the autocratic nature of Nitish's style of functioning, which has huge potential of marring his election prospects and Bihar could be up for surprise.
A lot of allusion is being made to Nitish's own coterie, which has all the leaning of Laoo's days, though they are not truly on the face of it, in terms of quotidian disruption to public life.
Well, whatever may be the logic, I personally feel that if we truly do an introspection and see the changes brought about by Nitsh in Bihar, esp. in comparision to Laloo days, it is humongous in terms of better law and order and creation of basic infrastructure.
In the long run. that is what matters, rest, as it is said, there are no saints in politics, some are subtle others are blatant.
A lot of allusion is being made to Nitish's own coterie, which has all the leaning of Laoo's days, though they are not truly on the face of it, in terms of quotidian disruption to public life.
Well, whatever may be the logic, I personally feel that if we truly do an introspection and see the changes brought about by Nitsh in Bihar, esp. in comparision to Laloo days, it is humongous in terms of better law and order and creation of basic infrastructure.
In the long run. that is what matters, rest, as it is said, there are no saints in politics, some are subtle others are blatant.
Bihar not to allow Wal-Mart-Bharti stores
There has been an announcement by Bihar Government not to allow walmart-Bharti stores in Bihar, as it will impact the lives of million vegetable and fruit vendors. Well, on the face of it, the logic for not allowing setting up stores looks quite pragmatic and populist. But I am not sure, as I personally feel that competition should not be excluded keeping in view populist measures and sentiments in mind. There should be a due diligence on how these stores will truly impact the vendors and not complement it.
The nitish government should not just go by logic of things, which superficially looks quite sensible. May be these stores would lead to a great demand for vegetable and fruits, which naturally due to reasons of logistics, be outsourced from Bihar only. The farmers will get a good price for it, and in turn get integrated to a larger economy. Or maybe the mom-pop stores, roadside vendors and large retail stores can co-exist in peace, as we see it in Delhi and NCR.
One never knows, but I feel that Bihar government should give a signal to larger private players that it is open to change and encourages healthy capitalist investments, as this state has no real large private players truly investing in Bihar, apart from telecom players, which by its very nature of service is unavoidable.
The nitish government should not just go by logic of things, which superficially looks quite sensible. May be these stores would lead to a great demand for vegetable and fruits, which naturally due to reasons of logistics, be outsourced from Bihar only. The farmers will get a good price for it, and in turn get integrated to a larger economy. Or maybe the mom-pop stores, roadside vendors and large retail stores can co-exist in peace, as we see it in Delhi and NCR.
One never knows, but I feel that Bihar government should give a signal to larger private players that it is open to change and encourages healthy capitalist investments, as this state has no real large private players truly investing in Bihar, apart from telecom players, which by its very nature of service is unavoidable.
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