Book Review: - The Book of Answers/A Novel by C.Y.Gopinath
Harper Collins, Price Rs.499, 2011
Though a seasoned journalist himself, C.Y.Gopinath has overstepped the construct of modest polemics to write one of the most remarkable satires that equally touches both the political and social realm with placing an individual at the forefront as a consine bearer. What I liked most in this novel, the quest of protagonist, Patros Patranobis for an ordinary yet satisfying life with his almost wife, Rose and son, Tippy which he has not fathered. But sudden arrival of a mysteriously unusual “The Book of Answers” as a legacy from a long-dead ancestor brings tectonic shift in his personal as well as in the political and social atmosphere around him.
Despite realizing the extraordinary potential of the book, proposition to sale it to a scrapper leaves a beautiful metaphor of an ordinary life that can be still opted by few over the market bound hyper commercial life. In some way, it gives hope for life outside of corrupt nexus. The grabbing of supernaturally efficient “The Book of Answers” by a godmen and passing of its wisdom to the most ruthless character of democracy, politician Ishwar Prasad exactly points out the Orwellian syndrome of “might is only right”. Rest ahead is fine narratives of a democracy with the institutions of flawed governance; though the inferred value of this novel will be universally relevant but in Indian contexts, it matches amazingly. Ethics in Indian politics has remained obstinately low without even slightly distracting by the “hyped magic” of economic reform.
Arrival of the real master of the book, Patros to check the its barbaric influences as damage control and further his searches of key in remote Kerala with witnessing the desperateness eventually visualize the end of a symbolic resistance. Such things hardly surprises us now as we have been and still living in a social order that created for forgetting the many humane attributes in the guise of growth. C.Y.Gopinath deserves all praise to unleash the real happenings in political circle and its consistent harm on the collective cognitive psyches; is this kind of political system that democracy promises by its instinct? Such erosion of responsiveness from one’s defined or undefined role vehementally juxtaposes the idealistic bearing and themes behind foundation of democracy!
In robustly dynamic time, few have patience to read the books like Aldus Huxley’s “Brave new World” which predicted the potential happenings of years ahead. What is viable in the present time to know the shifting of scenes around in simple and lucid expression, where this book succeeded with immaculate dedication of the author to add many positive changes in his surroundings. May be such idealism proceed or not but there will be no denying that a chunk of humanity will be keep striving with intrinsic impulses instead of enforced pressures.
Indian English writing is passing through a very productive phase, this work strengthen such notion with benign readability and indeed delving with the big systemic issues backed by real zeal and not only for grimacing on oddities we face regularly. India as a nation is experimenting with antagonistic ideas; it’s really hard and daunting in this scenario for any writer to interpret the things without reaching to the end of conclusion. Fortunately “The Book of Answers” has conclusion for its readers who can feel the ire of system through words albeit they will simply not stop being enjoying the satire!
Atul Kumar Thakur
July 27, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Email: - summertickets@gmail.com
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Dream of Asian Resurgence!
Mani Shankar Aiyar represents the core values of Congress party, with his articulate and balanced approach in diplomacy and politics; he has influenced the views on crucial issues across the world. As a Foreign Service official, parliamentarian, Minister and an avid intellectual, he immensely contributed to India’s foreign policy and grassroot democracy. Recently we had talk at his residence amidst his hectic schedule, though even in short meeting, he spoke substantially on our potential foreign policy in neighbouring countries which is the need of hour under the new changes. Excerpts of our talk are…
Q: - As a statesmen and senior parliamentarian, how you see the changing dynamics in Indian foreign policy? Isn’t it economic consideration alone that outgrowing the strategic compulsions?
A: - While it’s true that foreign policy is being driven less by ideological and more by pragmatic consideration than was the case earlier, I don’t believe economic consideration alone are determining the course of foreign policy. The relationships with the U.S.A, which has become the predominant parameter of foreign policy, is ofcourse closer than ever before and does contain strong component of economic, strategic and security consideration, but is not being allowed compromise our sovereignty or independent position on several matters of international interest.
Within our reason, there is determined effort to improve relations with Pakistan. Should a breakthrough be achieved, this will dramatically alter the regional and international context within which our foreign policy operates. Equally, a strong and political relationship with China is a necessary precursor for the Asian Resurgence to be witnessed in during this century.
Q: - Despite our growing recognition as an economic and strategic power at global arena, our ties with neighbours seems timid or even dwindling…how Indian authorities should approach on it?
A: - All foreign policy starts at a country’s doorsteps, not until there is peace and tranquility in a country’s immediate neighbourhood can that country hope to exercise any real influence in the world at large. Our most tangled relationship has ofcourse been with Pakistan and hence the priority that needs to be extended to removing this albatross from our neck.
Q: - Strategically, China has remained a big factor for us, and now it’s also leading an economic warfare with us in Nepal and Pakistan, where it has expansionist motives…recently China has invested billions of dollars in Gilgit/Baltistan region and also in the adjoining terrain of Tibetan border in Nepal…should India take an indifferent stand or enter in the fray with better competency?
A: - We can either turn Nepal into a South Asian Belgium or convert it into the battlefield between Indian and China, as happened in Europe between Germany and France or we can make Nepal a bridge of friendship between India and China in friendly co-operative relationships. The wiser thing would be the later, but ofcourse it would be the more difficult to be do. In a recent visit to Nepal, I took the measure of the extent of distrust there is for us matched by the extent to which China is looked upon benevolently. I am afraid, this gap in perception will be only widen if India attempts to impose itself on Nepal to force them entwining Indian mandate.
If, other hand, India were to regard China as a partner rather than a rival in Nepal, then we might be able to bring the Nepali’s perception of India on par with their indulgent view of China. What India must never forget in the natural and economic advantages, as well as civilisational, cultural and linguistic links which China will be never able to match. Therefore, instead competing for influence, rather we should try to work in the interest of Nepal and her people.
I am strongly view that foreign policy should be deployed to promote reconciliation, not aggravation. A hostile relationship with Pakistan will render the Chinese presence in these mountain areas a threat to our security, but a warm relationship with Pakistan will render the Chinese presence irrelevant.
Q: - What should be the India’s next course of action in Bangladesh, Nepal, Srilanka, Maldives and Bhutan?
A: - At the same time, there is much scope for getting our relations with Bangladesh on even kill. The same is the case with Nepal. As for Srilanka, much depends upon on internal settlement of the issue of Srilankan Tamils. Srilanka is perhaps our only neighbour with whom we appeared to have reached a satisfactory settlement. On Maldives and Bhutan, my view whatever will be the hurdles, ensuring peace, co-operation and good neighborliness in South Asia should be the highest objectives of Indian foreign policy.
Q: - You always supported for the balanced ties in our neighborhood; as a rising power too, it should be our aim to strengthen the co-operation in South Asia and dream for Asian Resurgence. Hoping best in the South Asian region with your remarkable views…
A: - The numerous challenges we are facing today either strategically or in foreign policy will be eased with a balanced ties with our neighbours. So, it should be our foremost aim to give more focus on the South Asian region…positive changes will be visible soon once India will secure its desired objectives in neighbouring region.
Atul Kumar Thakur
July 26, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Email:- summertickets@gmail.com
Q: - As a statesmen and senior parliamentarian, how you see the changing dynamics in Indian foreign policy? Isn’t it economic consideration alone that outgrowing the strategic compulsions?
A: - While it’s true that foreign policy is being driven less by ideological and more by pragmatic consideration than was the case earlier, I don’t believe economic consideration alone are determining the course of foreign policy. The relationships with the U.S.A, which has become the predominant parameter of foreign policy, is ofcourse closer than ever before and does contain strong component of economic, strategic and security consideration, but is not being allowed compromise our sovereignty or independent position on several matters of international interest.
Within our reason, there is determined effort to improve relations with Pakistan. Should a breakthrough be achieved, this will dramatically alter the regional and international context within which our foreign policy operates. Equally, a strong and political relationship with China is a necessary precursor for the Asian Resurgence to be witnessed in during this century.
Q: - Despite our growing recognition as an economic and strategic power at global arena, our ties with neighbours seems timid or even dwindling…how Indian authorities should approach on it?
A: - All foreign policy starts at a country’s doorsteps, not until there is peace and tranquility in a country’s immediate neighbourhood can that country hope to exercise any real influence in the world at large. Our most tangled relationship has ofcourse been with Pakistan and hence the priority that needs to be extended to removing this albatross from our neck.
Q: - Strategically, China has remained a big factor for us, and now it’s also leading an economic warfare with us in Nepal and Pakistan, where it has expansionist motives…recently China has invested billions of dollars in Gilgit/Baltistan region and also in the adjoining terrain of Tibetan border in Nepal…should India take an indifferent stand or enter in the fray with better competency?
A: - We can either turn Nepal into a South Asian Belgium or convert it into the battlefield between Indian and China, as happened in Europe between Germany and France or we can make Nepal a bridge of friendship between India and China in friendly co-operative relationships. The wiser thing would be the later, but ofcourse it would be the more difficult to be do. In a recent visit to Nepal, I took the measure of the extent of distrust there is for us matched by the extent to which China is looked upon benevolently. I am afraid, this gap in perception will be only widen if India attempts to impose itself on Nepal to force them entwining Indian mandate.
If, other hand, India were to regard China as a partner rather than a rival in Nepal, then we might be able to bring the Nepali’s perception of India on par with their indulgent view of China. What India must never forget in the natural and economic advantages, as well as civilisational, cultural and linguistic links which China will be never able to match. Therefore, instead competing for influence, rather we should try to work in the interest of Nepal and her people.
I am strongly view that foreign policy should be deployed to promote reconciliation, not aggravation. A hostile relationship with Pakistan will render the Chinese presence in these mountain areas a threat to our security, but a warm relationship with Pakistan will render the Chinese presence irrelevant.
Q: - What should be the India’s next course of action in Bangladesh, Nepal, Srilanka, Maldives and Bhutan?
A: - At the same time, there is much scope for getting our relations with Bangladesh on even kill. The same is the case with Nepal. As for Srilanka, much depends upon on internal settlement of the issue of Srilankan Tamils. Srilanka is perhaps our only neighbour with whom we appeared to have reached a satisfactory settlement. On Maldives and Bhutan, my view whatever will be the hurdles, ensuring peace, co-operation and good neighborliness in South Asia should be the highest objectives of Indian foreign policy.
Q: - You always supported for the balanced ties in our neighborhood; as a rising power too, it should be our aim to strengthen the co-operation in South Asia and dream for Asian Resurgence. Hoping best in the South Asian region with your remarkable views…
A: - The numerous challenges we are facing today either strategically or in foreign policy will be eased with a balanced ties with our neighbours. So, it should be our foremost aim to give more focus on the South Asian region…positive changes will be visible soon once India will secure its desired objectives in neighbouring region.
Atul Kumar Thakur
July 26, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Email:- summertickets@gmail.com
Thursday, June 30, 2011
When Playing on Backfoot!
The game of Cricket, which British left unknowingly, later proved as the unifying catalyst in Indian sub-continent…it mushroomed because it possessed intrinsic healing qualities. Time changed, India also changed, so changed the aspirations of capital with its blind mandate of profit maximization. Cricket, for its salable attributes, easily picked by the cronies with slashing its beauty under the assortment of buzzword-innovation. Even a short glance on lexicon will enable you to know how the word “innovation” is being confused with the all sort of functional attainment.
Test Cricket took decades to shape in Britain and its colonies; one-day format was comparatively easily succeeded but it’s also came into light only after the first World Cup in 1975. But the by-product of neo-capitalist innovation-20/20 Cricket started making million dollars from the time of incubation with undermining even the inherent logic of capitalism. Anyway, this format of Cricket turned out to be transaction oriented…its instant effect enabled Cricketers to delink from their national side; we enjoyed our Cricket World Cup victory less than what anticipated and what we did in 1983. Moreover, India being the host nation of transaction Cricket lost its highly articulated minister Shashi Tharoor for his adventurous exposure to one among many suspicious deals. Why so much power of politics and capital suddenly chosen to chase cricket? Why players earned the entire careers riches in only one or two seasons?
These all happened with surplus investment capital from the backdoor with realizing the obscene profit ahead-public figures were offered sweat equities and addict spectators, a cocktail of unhygienic shadow of Cricket and lethal dances of cheerleaders. A second category of Cricket enthusiasts like me and millions others simply lost the appetite for this wonderful game. The most profound voice on Cricket history, Ramchandra Guha stopped writing on Cricket which personally I missing equally as the glory of Cricket itself. His categorization of Cricket in which he awarded lowest possible points to 20/20 formats seems completely materializing…even worse, the International Cricket Council {ICC} is completely under the influence of transaction Cricket. Though it’s hardly surprising, as its being headed by the same person who with little concern is also looking after on Indian Agriculture Ministry and almost he has equal indifference to the agrarian crisis as on alteration of Cricket’ essential rules.
Who are suffering from putting Cricket on Backfoot? Ofcourse all those who loves being the natural part of Cricket which only allows them to cheer with the men in whites for complete five days! Still most of us can remember the miraculous innings of V.V.S Laxmanand daring resistance of Rahul Dravid against Australia in Eden Garden/2001…similarly the memories of ongoing performance by both on Caribbean pitches will be remain vivid in our collective memory. Hardly, anyone will be like to memorize the struggling Laxman or vulnerable Dravid of 20/20 Cricket!
Embodiment of professional excellence and national expectations, Sachin Tendulkar; who has fan following in billions and from across the globe, too lost that momentum which he usually carry with the national cap. Values matters especially in a society like ours…I am quite sure, World Cricket would never had Don Bradman, Vivi Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Wasim Akram, Murlidharan or even Yuvraj Singh if they were entangled with 20/20 format during the formative years. Simply downsizing ploy against the real version of Cricket will be proved a dangerous exercise for the game itself. Afterall it will be as terrible as replacing the epic works of literature for a commonly standardized text message where frugality of words resonates the awkward foul play with languages.
I am reprising again here from the top that Cricket is a special unconscious legacy from British…two other important legacies-Railway and Armed forces were somehow the planned projects of colonizers. Cricket was shaped and popularized under the capitalism but its interaction in Indian sub-continent largely changed the elitist biases centered within it. Rest big changes came from Caribbean domination on Cricket which broke the myth that white alone can play sophisticated game of Cricket. If such popularization of Cricket with nationalistic aspirations given it a people-centric looks, I am afraid the India based IPL episode will be badly damage the flavor of Cricket and common men’s stake in this game. Private money can’t add sports spirit and ofcourse qualities in game…we can see that in country Cricket and other club sports in Europe…real spirits are no where!
Atul Kumar Thakur
June 30, 2011, Thursday, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
Test Cricket took decades to shape in Britain and its colonies; one-day format was comparatively easily succeeded but it’s also came into light only after the first World Cup in 1975. But the by-product of neo-capitalist innovation-20/20 Cricket started making million dollars from the time of incubation with undermining even the inherent logic of capitalism. Anyway, this format of Cricket turned out to be transaction oriented…its instant effect enabled Cricketers to delink from their national side; we enjoyed our Cricket World Cup victory less than what anticipated and what we did in 1983. Moreover, India being the host nation of transaction Cricket lost its highly articulated minister Shashi Tharoor for his adventurous exposure to one among many suspicious deals. Why so much power of politics and capital suddenly chosen to chase cricket? Why players earned the entire careers riches in only one or two seasons?
These all happened with surplus investment capital from the backdoor with realizing the obscene profit ahead-public figures were offered sweat equities and addict spectators, a cocktail of unhygienic shadow of Cricket and lethal dances of cheerleaders. A second category of Cricket enthusiasts like me and millions others simply lost the appetite for this wonderful game. The most profound voice on Cricket history, Ramchandra Guha stopped writing on Cricket which personally I missing equally as the glory of Cricket itself. His categorization of Cricket in which he awarded lowest possible points to 20/20 formats seems completely materializing…even worse, the International Cricket Council {ICC} is completely under the influence of transaction Cricket. Though it’s hardly surprising, as its being headed by the same person who with little concern is also looking after on Indian Agriculture Ministry and almost he has equal indifference to the agrarian crisis as on alteration of Cricket’ essential rules.
Who are suffering from putting Cricket on Backfoot? Ofcourse all those who loves being the natural part of Cricket which only allows them to cheer with the men in whites for complete five days! Still most of us can remember the miraculous innings of V.V.S Laxmanand daring resistance of Rahul Dravid against Australia in Eden Garden/2001…similarly the memories of ongoing performance by both on Caribbean pitches will be remain vivid in our collective memory. Hardly, anyone will be like to memorize the struggling Laxman or vulnerable Dravid of 20/20 Cricket!
Embodiment of professional excellence and national expectations, Sachin Tendulkar; who has fan following in billions and from across the globe, too lost that momentum which he usually carry with the national cap. Values matters especially in a society like ours…I am quite sure, World Cricket would never had Don Bradman, Vivi Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Wasim Akram, Murlidharan or even Yuvraj Singh if they were entangled with 20/20 format during the formative years. Simply downsizing ploy against the real version of Cricket will be proved a dangerous exercise for the game itself. Afterall it will be as terrible as replacing the epic works of literature for a commonly standardized text message where frugality of words resonates the awkward foul play with languages.
I am reprising again here from the top that Cricket is a special unconscious legacy from British…two other important legacies-Railway and Armed forces were somehow the planned projects of colonizers. Cricket was shaped and popularized under the capitalism but its interaction in Indian sub-continent largely changed the elitist biases centered within it. Rest big changes came from Caribbean domination on Cricket which broke the myth that white alone can play sophisticated game of Cricket. If such popularization of Cricket with nationalistic aspirations given it a people-centric looks, I am afraid the India based IPL episode will be badly damage the flavor of Cricket and common men’s stake in this game. Private money can’t add sports spirit and ofcourse qualities in game…we can see that in country Cricket and other club sports in Europe…real spirits are no where!
Atul Kumar Thakur
June 30, 2011, Thursday, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Looking back on a Scion
Brick by Red Brick /Ravi Mathai and making of IIM Ahmedabad: T. T. Rammohan
Rupa Publication, 2011, Price- Rs 495
Mammoth task of institution building which was regarded by Nehru as “Making of India’s Modern Temple”, can be cited a superb maneuvering with the confluence of aspiration and caliber. Institutional development and heavy industrialization were the main planks of Nehruvian vision for the newly independent Indian…fortunately these ideas remained as much sacrosanct under the democratic India as would be the spread of theocracy in a theocratic state. Nehru and him men of Cabinet were quite aware about the potential change in labour pattern following the mushrooming of new industries, for coping those challenges, they started churning out home grown model of management education that finally shaped in the form of IIM Ahmedabad and later many more.
This book presents the lucid overview on the shaping and development of IIM Ahmedabad- T.T.Rammohan, Professor at IIMA and a long time columnist for Economic Times ushered the institutional corporate history writing to a new height. If he is indebted to Dwijendra Tripathi for his early remarkable works in Indian management and source of rich experiences, we should also express similar feelings to TTR for giving the management history a new lease in India. Otherwise, we have very few such works that could justify its utility-most of them afflicts with reprising exercise and ends in stark oblivion.
Our forefathers were visionary and Vikram Sarabhai was one among them with proven integrity…starting of book beautifully narrates his contribution as founding Director, IIMA from 1961-1964 and later his historic decision to replace his position by young Ravi Mathai. Ravi then, only 38 with merely a qualification of BA{Hons}from Oxford was a surprising choice…prior to new assignment of Director, IIMA; he had a decade of industry experience but little academic exposure at IIM Calcutta. But if experience was a handicap for Ravi Mathai, his articulate persona and elitist background were positive factors with him. He was son of John Mathai {Finance Minister in Nehru’s Cabinet} with a sophisticated schooling in elite-centric sprawling Doon School and later University education in Oxford. TTR gives ample chance for readers to make their own judgement on this point without making things perplexed.
Chapter-I {The Grand Design}of the book represents the very important issue of history, it thoroughly deals with the genesis and consolidation of India’s premier management institute. Management maven, TTR delved with the early crucial development s with a rationalist stand-either adverseness of Robbins Report or obstinate stand of Herbert Simon on IIMA, all covered with high resoluteness. Ravi Mathai was a maverick epochmaker with full commitment for nation making and enterprising creativity…his sublime quote, “The building of an educational institute is often an act of faith” proves his ethical stand on education and academic administration. Rich account of life and work of Kamla Chowdhry, Kasturbhai Lalbhai and Prakash Tandon are pleasantly rewarding for readers, so are the detailed delineation of UCLA recommendation and Humayun Kabir’s scintillating view on nationalistic mode of education.
Chapter-II {Laying the Foundation} literally justifies the title of this book by dwelling with the history of designs at IIMA-it gives account how the renowned French Architect Kahn had designed the IIMA with high passion and deep commitment. Chapter-III {The Master Builder Arrives} and chapter-IV {Erecting the Edifice} covers in length about his vision and its formulation for IIMA. He was a firm believer in teaching excellence and spotting the right talent-C.K.Prahlad was one of his finding. Ravi Mathai was the emblem of leadership qualities which he kept demonstrating throughout his life…accustomed to a Spartan life and also very kind hearted in core, proven he was a true scion for his mother nation.
Chapter-V {Towering over the Rest} and chapter-VI {Getting the Software Right} inquisite how Mathai led IIMA to the crest in his stint as Director and later as its very distinguished faculty. He was the propunder of Sustainable Business Model within the Indian management, on which many Indian companies later pitched for their business innovation. Chapter-VII {Light and Shadow} has too much contemporary relevance today under the canopy of autonomy debate on IIM. TTR has carefully revitalizes this debate with nailing the contentiousness of Bhargava-I&II Committee report on change of governance in IIMA. He sensed the back door privatization of IIMA board in the intent and uprightly denounces here with his pragmatic views on the essential role of government in the functioning of IIMs. Like his newspaper column, TTR is overtly against the blind privatization of educational institutions in this book…indeed that itself marks the tradition of integrity established by Ravi Mathai who never fallen to heed for unethical demand irrespective of its tantamount.
Chapter-VIII {At the Grassroots}, post retirement, like a true academician, Mathai opted teaching at IIMA and also involved himself with many grassroot educational/social initiatives in Gujrat, Rajastahn and even outside. He was one of the distinguished brains behind the formation of Indian Council of Social Science Research {ICSSR}. He had displayed excellence in the field of management…interestingly he was equally an accomplished handyman with avid pastime for gardening, driving and playing with pets. He had deep sense of urgency for nation’s socio-economic development that always engaged his for better contribution from his side. It was not without reason why he spent time in rural areas to know the India better…he entwined with the existing plights and succeeded to form new vision for management.
Lastly, chapter-ix {Style and Substance}, presents some of the personal details about him which hitherto been out of public glare…in the later part of life, he substantially focused on the rural projects-Jwaja project remained foremost among them. Sentimental writing of TTR gives true tribute to Ravi Mathai who outgrew personal aspiration for institution building and finally nation making at large. Hectic lifestyle and heavy smoking cut short his life and he passed away after a brave fight with malady on February 13, 1984 in London…it was a blow to the nation that remained hard to fill even after decades. As the final words of book says, Ravi Mathai shines brightly in the constellation of institution builders, likes of Homi Bhabha, Vikram Sarabhai, JRD Tata, VKRV Rao and R.K.Talwar.
This book is essential for management aspirants with high goal in life and career and also for those who loves to read history in alternative narration. I am being categorical only because Ravi Mathai chased the excellence, so is doing T.T. Rammohan…this work strictly revolves around the story of excellence.
Atul Kumar Thakur
June 28, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
Rupa Publication, 2011, Price- Rs 495
Mammoth task of institution building which was regarded by Nehru as “Making of India’s Modern Temple”, can be cited a superb maneuvering with the confluence of aspiration and caliber. Institutional development and heavy industrialization were the main planks of Nehruvian vision for the newly independent Indian…fortunately these ideas remained as much sacrosanct under the democratic India as would be the spread of theocracy in a theocratic state. Nehru and him men of Cabinet were quite aware about the potential change in labour pattern following the mushrooming of new industries, for coping those challenges, they started churning out home grown model of management education that finally shaped in the form of IIM Ahmedabad and later many more.
This book presents the lucid overview on the shaping and development of IIM Ahmedabad- T.T.Rammohan, Professor at IIMA and a long time columnist for Economic Times ushered the institutional corporate history writing to a new height. If he is indebted to Dwijendra Tripathi for his early remarkable works in Indian management and source of rich experiences, we should also express similar feelings to TTR for giving the management history a new lease in India. Otherwise, we have very few such works that could justify its utility-most of them afflicts with reprising exercise and ends in stark oblivion.
Our forefathers were visionary and Vikram Sarabhai was one among them with proven integrity…starting of book beautifully narrates his contribution as founding Director, IIMA from 1961-1964 and later his historic decision to replace his position by young Ravi Mathai. Ravi then, only 38 with merely a qualification of BA{Hons}from Oxford was a surprising choice…prior to new assignment of Director, IIMA; he had a decade of industry experience but little academic exposure at IIM Calcutta. But if experience was a handicap for Ravi Mathai, his articulate persona and elitist background were positive factors with him. He was son of John Mathai {Finance Minister in Nehru’s Cabinet} with a sophisticated schooling in elite-centric sprawling Doon School and later University education in Oxford. TTR gives ample chance for readers to make their own judgement on this point without making things perplexed.
Chapter-I {The Grand Design}of the book represents the very important issue of history, it thoroughly deals with the genesis and consolidation of India’s premier management institute. Management maven, TTR delved with the early crucial development s with a rationalist stand-either adverseness of Robbins Report or obstinate stand of Herbert Simon on IIMA, all covered with high resoluteness. Ravi Mathai was a maverick epochmaker with full commitment for nation making and enterprising creativity…his sublime quote, “The building of an educational institute is often an act of faith” proves his ethical stand on education and academic administration. Rich account of life and work of Kamla Chowdhry, Kasturbhai Lalbhai and Prakash Tandon are pleasantly rewarding for readers, so are the detailed delineation of UCLA recommendation and Humayun Kabir’s scintillating view on nationalistic mode of education.
Chapter-II {Laying the Foundation} literally justifies the title of this book by dwelling with the history of designs at IIMA-it gives account how the renowned French Architect Kahn had designed the IIMA with high passion and deep commitment. Chapter-III {The Master Builder Arrives} and chapter-IV {Erecting the Edifice} covers in length about his vision and its formulation for IIMA. He was a firm believer in teaching excellence and spotting the right talent-C.K.Prahlad was one of his finding. Ravi Mathai was the emblem of leadership qualities which he kept demonstrating throughout his life…accustomed to a Spartan life and also very kind hearted in core, proven he was a true scion for his mother nation.
Chapter-V {Towering over the Rest} and chapter-VI {Getting the Software Right} inquisite how Mathai led IIMA to the crest in his stint as Director and later as its very distinguished faculty. He was the propunder of Sustainable Business Model within the Indian management, on which many Indian companies later pitched for their business innovation. Chapter-VII {Light and Shadow} has too much contemporary relevance today under the canopy of autonomy debate on IIM. TTR has carefully revitalizes this debate with nailing the contentiousness of Bhargava-I&II Committee report on change of governance in IIMA. He sensed the back door privatization of IIMA board in the intent and uprightly denounces here with his pragmatic views on the essential role of government in the functioning of IIMs. Like his newspaper column, TTR is overtly against the blind privatization of educational institutions in this book…indeed that itself marks the tradition of integrity established by Ravi Mathai who never fallen to heed for unethical demand irrespective of its tantamount.
Chapter-VIII {At the Grassroots}, post retirement, like a true academician, Mathai opted teaching at IIMA and also involved himself with many grassroot educational/social initiatives in Gujrat, Rajastahn and even outside. He was one of the distinguished brains behind the formation of Indian Council of Social Science Research {ICSSR}. He had displayed excellence in the field of management…interestingly he was equally an accomplished handyman with avid pastime for gardening, driving and playing with pets. He had deep sense of urgency for nation’s socio-economic development that always engaged his for better contribution from his side. It was not without reason why he spent time in rural areas to know the India better…he entwined with the existing plights and succeeded to form new vision for management.
Lastly, chapter-ix {Style and Substance}, presents some of the personal details about him which hitherto been out of public glare…in the later part of life, he substantially focused on the rural projects-Jwaja project remained foremost among them. Sentimental writing of TTR gives true tribute to Ravi Mathai who outgrew personal aspiration for institution building and finally nation making at large. Hectic lifestyle and heavy smoking cut short his life and he passed away after a brave fight with malady on February 13, 1984 in London…it was a blow to the nation that remained hard to fill even after decades. As the final words of book says, Ravi Mathai shines brightly in the constellation of institution builders, likes of Homi Bhabha, Vikram Sarabhai, JRD Tata, VKRV Rao and R.K.Talwar.
This book is essential for management aspirants with high goal in life and career and also for those who loves to read history in alternative narration. I am being categorical only because Ravi Mathai chased the excellence, so is doing T.T. Rammohan…this work strictly revolves around the story of excellence.
Atul Kumar Thakur
June 28, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
An Activist Police
Amitabh Thakur {now only Amitabh} exudes courage and integrity-a mechanical engineer from IIT Kanpur, who left the chance to join Indian Revenue Service/IRS in 1991 for a challenging career in Indian Police Service next year . Presently pursuing fellowship programme in management from IIM Lucknow, this UP Cadre IPS officer is also a co-author of book on entrepreneurship, The Fresh Brew…besides that he is also serving as President with National RTI Forum, which was founded by him with doubtless commitment for transparency in public life. Like a true activist police, he is quite sanguine about the glimmering Right to Information…both as administrator and an activist, he sees RTI as empowering tool for governance. Recently we had a substantial talk in Delhi which finally appearing here as interview…
Q: - You joined IPS in 1992, and then your choice was as transient as was the economy of India. With an IIT degree in hand, why you only aspired for IPS?
A: - It was a tough decision to go against the stream but my aspirations were strong…my first choice was to join IAS, which didn’t materialize, so I opted for my second dream-IPS. These two services give the proper opportunity to assimilate with peoples and to be proactive part of machinery.
Q: - You were never a camp follower and always defied the aegis of protection, likes of caste, religion or any other hide bound categorization-how you with fallouts?
A: - Until I joined IPS in 1992, I was largely unaware about the actual equation on which systemic function rests…later I came to know how even the battered parochial views could be thrive under the strength of cronyism and influence the entire machinery. A duty bound officer like me who runs without any sanctum faces many hurdles from opposite camps with vested interest to make the system vulnerable. During initial years of my service in eastern UP, I had to confront many such grim political pressures but outgrowing the intermittent adversities, I saved my integrity.
Q: - What’s your view on Police-peoples interface and overall reform in Policy system?
A: - I support maximum participation of peoples in maintaining law& order…there must be use of local wisdom and expertise in any form of governance. So, interface is essential…yes, Police reform is the need of hour. It should be start from introducing new human resource policy and adoption of technology from the basic to top level in Police system. That will be a moral boosting exercise.
Q: - How you stepped in RTI Movement despite serving in bureaucracy?
A: - It was little bit unusual but not completely as sizable number among government officials including those who are in police have positive thinking about RTI. A fair official has nothing to afraid from RTI which is a gateway of transparency and lastly an important factor for good governance. Remarkably, RTI has enhanced the honest official’s confidence and reputation which was impossible through any other means. After gathering the inside perspectives of administration and realizing hassle of official procedures, I decided to back this movement by joining a voluntary position of President, National RTI Forum, Lucknow.
Q: - Do you think CBI should be come under the RTI Act?
A: - Yes, it will make overarching effects in other areas too that may finally enhance the people’s perception for these offices of last resort. I don’t think it may be taken as facile opinion to introduce RTI at most of places, only excluding those falls under the strategic area.
Q: - RTI Activists are frequently under the attacks that to an extant diminishing the calibrated part of activism, how you first think as an activist and later Police?
A: - It’s indeed a big concern…as an activist; it seems me like cruelty against the evangelists of fair governance. As a Police, I think it should be deal as law & order problem…once law will take it course, such terrible incidents will be sure come down.
Q: - You spent around two decades as an IPS in UP, tell us the upshot of caste politics in state which initially spread under the pseudo cover of social justice?
A: - What happened in UP in last two decades in the name of caste is shocking and frustrating. Once the nerve of central politics has diminished to merely shadow of its past…law &order is lagging behind here in absence of professional work ethics and enormous political pressure. The most worrying thing is the caste being used as means of exploitation…natural merit has no place here before the status of natural birth in a categorized caste.
Q: - Enforcement of law is essence of Policing but the state of prison is an area which is completely bereft from it, what you will suggest for reform?
A: - Speedy trial and reformist treatment with prisoners will make the positive difference besides the jail inmates should be allowed to be productive inside the define territory. If someone wants to pursue education, let him/her allow to doing …it’s nice to see many such examples in Tihar jail and even in some of smaller jails. A change can take place in human, even after the conviction of crime…that must be taken as a welcome possibility by the prison authorities and also judiciary. For these behavioural changes, we don’t have to look outside; the inspiration of Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave are quite conducive for infusing humane touch with prisoners.
Q: - There is common apathy for the bottom level of Policing, which is the biggest dent on entire Police system…what’s your take on these serious flaws of governance?
A: - Lack of professional ethics is a big concern which creates such embarrassing practices and that must be checked by the standardized rules instead of sheer upper hand action from hierarchy. At any cost, lapidary approaches have to overtake the sordid practices…with addition of ethics; technology will bring a tectonic shift in Indian Policing. Having the great IT capacity, it’s not very hard to materialize in India…whereby acronyms POLICE will justify its real meaning for all.
Q: - I hope you will subsume many issues for the sake of fair governance in Policing and will also keep holding the baton of RTI…
A: - I have been striving for the betterment of Policing and will be keep doing so…RTI activism will be also progress and I am sure days ahead are going to be very participative and full of enthusiasm for a fair and transparent governance.
Atul Kumar Thakur
June 29, 2011, Wednesday, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
Q: - You joined IPS in 1992, and then your choice was as transient as was the economy of India. With an IIT degree in hand, why you only aspired for IPS?
A: - It was a tough decision to go against the stream but my aspirations were strong…my first choice was to join IAS, which didn’t materialize, so I opted for my second dream-IPS. These two services give the proper opportunity to assimilate with peoples and to be proactive part of machinery.
Q: - You were never a camp follower and always defied the aegis of protection, likes of caste, religion or any other hide bound categorization-how you with fallouts?
A: - Until I joined IPS in 1992, I was largely unaware about the actual equation on which systemic function rests…later I came to know how even the battered parochial views could be thrive under the strength of cronyism and influence the entire machinery. A duty bound officer like me who runs without any sanctum faces many hurdles from opposite camps with vested interest to make the system vulnerable. During initial years of my service in eastern UP, I had to confront many such grim political pressures but outgrowing the intermittent adversities, I saved my integrity.
Q: - What’s your view on Police-peoples interface and overall reform in Policy system?
A: - I support maximum participation of peoples in maintaining law& order…there must be use of local wisdom and expertise in any form of governance. So, interface is essential…yes, Police reform is the need of hour. It should be start from introducing new human resource policy and adoption of technology from the basic to top level in Police system. That will be a moral boosting exercise.
Q: - How you stepped in RTI Movement despite serving in bureaucracy?
A: - It was little bit unusual but not completely as sizable number among government officials including those who are in police have positive thinking about RTI. A fair official has nothing to afraid from RTI which is a gateway of transparency and lastly an important factor for good governance. Remarkably, RTI has enhanced the honest official’s confidence and reputation which was impossible through any other means. After gathering the inside perspectives of administration and realizing hassle of official procedures, I decided to back this movement by joining a voluntary position of President, National RTI Forum, Lucknow.
Q: - Do you think CBI should be come under the RTI Act?
A: - Yes, it will make overarching effects in other areas too that may finally enhance the people’s perception for these offices of last resort. I don’t think it may be taken as facile opinion to introduce RTI at most of places, only excluding those falls under the strategic area.
Q: - RTI Activists are frequently under the attacks that to an extant diminishing the calibrated part of activism, how you first think as an activist and later Police?
A: - It’s indeed a big concern…as an activist; it seems me like cruelty against the evangelists of fair governance. As a Police, I think it should be deal as law & order problem…once law will take it course, such terrible incidents will be sure come down.
Q: - You spent around two decades as an IPS in UP, tell us the upshot of caste politics in state which initially spread under the pseudo cover of social justice?
A: - What happened in UP in last two decades in the name of caste is shocking and frustrating. Once the nerve of central politics has diminished to merely shadow of its past…law &order is lagging behind here in absence of professional work ethics and enormous political pressure. The most worrying thing is the caste being used as means of exploitation…natural merit has no place here before the status of natural birth in a categorized caste.
Q: - Enforcement of law is essence of Policing but the state of prison is an area which is completely bereft from it, what you will suggest for reform?
A: - Speedy trial and reformist treatment with prisoners will make the positive difference besides the jail inmates should be allowed to be productive inside the define territory. If someone wants to pursue education, let him/her allow to doing …it’s nice to see many such examples in Tihar jail and even in some of smaller jails. A change can take place in human, even after the conviction of crime…that must be taken as a welcome possibility by the prison authorities and also judiciary. For these behavioural changes, we don’t have to look outside; the inspiration of Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave are quite conducive for infusing humane touch with prisoners.
Q: - There is common apathy for the bottom level of Policing, which is the biggest dent on entire Police system…what’s your take on these serious flaws of governance?
A: - Lack of professional ethics is a big concern which creates such embarrassing practices and that must be checked by the standardized rules instead of sheer upper hand action from hierarchy. At any cost, lapidary approaches have to overtake the sordid practices…with addition of ethics; technology will bring a tectonic shift in Indian Policing. Having the great IT capacity, it’s not very hard to materialize in India…whereby acronyms POLICE will justify its real meaning for all.
Q: - I hope you will subsume many issues for the sake of fair governance in Policing and will also keep holding the baton of RTI…
A: - I have been striving for the betterment of Policing and will be keep doing so…RTI activism will be also progress and I am sure days ahead are going to be very participative and full of enthusiasm for a fair and transparent governance.
Atul Kumar Thakur
June 29, 2011, Wednesday, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Two Giant Shows!
Book Review:-SUPERPOWER? The Amazing Race between China’s Hare and India’s Tortoise by Raghav Bahl {PENGUIN, ALLEN LANE, 2010, RS699}.
The two Asian giants-Indian and China are now undoubtedly the force to reckon with, after their long hibernation out of plundering colonial setbacks, these two nations are now retrieving their civilisational glory. With many commonness and ofcourse differences, relation between India-China stands on antagonistic construct…historically very close until the defiance of trust did by the China in 1962 that permanently fixed a big if in the psyche of Indians. Though with enhanced aspirations in new world order, both Indian and China are constructively heading to defy all the adverse obstinate impediments with wider framework to usher in a special kind of relationship primarily based on economic interests. Indeed it’s a way forward to cope with the swiftly changing geo-politics…time now is to revisit the history, politics, economics, culture of these two superpower with new insights but without burying the old prudence.
Raghav Bahl {Journalist, founder Network18 Media} did this superbly with his scintillating views and meticulous documentation that easily lead the readers to comprehensive realities of the race of dominance between the two powerful neighbors. This book, {SUPERPOWER? The Amazing Race between China’s Hare and India’s Tortoise} presents the narratives, how the India and China going to make history within their own set of rules. China’s monolithic political system and India’s vibrant democracy-both with their pros and cons are occupying a stout functional feet to show the resistance at global platform. Preface marks the distinction of Indian growth which is statistically sluggish than China’s achievements…title says it better, why don’t they get India?
Prologue of the book has demystifying hold, China and the Art of Escape Velocity? Napoleon’s quote which is an all time super remarks, vehemently define the China and its inclusion completely fit here. Paul Krugman’s The Myth of Asia’s Miracle: A Cautionary Fable gives an ample back up to consider on the Raghav’s insistence on knowing closely the intricacies of Chinese miracle vis-à-vis the leaders of world economy. Albeit it will be overestimation to anticipate by the assumptions that who’s going to be swift and finally on crest-China’s Hare or India’s Tortoise…here is need to be adequately judgmental.
Which way will history turn? Raghav is exactly right in reminding the readers that history unfolds over several decades, perhaps even in fractions of centuries and a search of perfect match of growth between these two countries will be an abrupt proposition. If China rebound post financial meltdown wit huge debt and vicious deflation side-by-side the weak demand and prices-India’s experience was much better with lower debt and modest inflation. It will be also worthwhile to know that India’s nominal GDP grew twice as fast as China’s for a few quarters-remarkably, it’s a first such experience in last three decades. So, the notion of India, who? Seems eroding with a positive world view for India story. Goldman Sach’s brainchild, BRIC {2001} strengthened the world views for India’s slot only next to U.S.A and China in the years ahead…this sounds realistic, even when the author himself acknowledge the many odds in the way but China is also not immune from adversities. For knowing the fragility of Chinese growth, reading of Premshankar Jha’s scripture like work on China “Managed Chaos “gives the appropriate scenic realities behind the China’s miraculous growth!
The Race Begins:- This is a catching nomenclature of a chapter inside the book which precisely relates to what the term exists between India and China. With big markets and sound indications, China and India have emerged as “shock observer” after the global financial meltdown-may be theirs ties will be shoot up atleast in economic arena but chances are feeble that China will give India any space within the ambit of its “Asian solidarity” block. This closeness of China naturally evolve the doubting stances over its intention but the aspiration for material growth is stronger than any other tantrums, so it’s possible that China will maintain a balancing ties with its most close competitor-India. Quotation of M.J.Akbar “The language of conflict has passed its sell by date. The poor want to be part of the Indian Rising Story” can be maximized here in Chinese context too.
A Hare on Steroids:- Chapter delves with the China’s downside of growth and its complex consumerism that yields many grave concern generally surpassed under the China’s complacent indicators. In next chapter “A Tortoise with new Muscle” inquisite the structural edge of India’s growth, here Stephan Rouch’s views gives sublime touch. The next chapter “Rule of Law, Rule by Law” searches the base of Chinese Law in “Patriotism”-infact, the Chinese state uses laws as policy instrument instead like western democracies where the principle of law believe as supreme and all public policy to be implemented within the law. Here, a missing link is quite evident from China’s own experiment with a liberal system in 1912, after the fall of Qing dynasty…today; China hardly carries even a tint of liberal vision of Sanayat Sen. Ahead of this, Raghav beautifully dwell with the India’s democratic experiments along with a full overview of Indian constitution. Reference of Bhagalpur incident of late 1980’s and Olga Tellis {1981, Bombay} protest against the BMC ruling of eviction for pavement dwellers present the uncomfortable face of our democracy. Next, a fine delineation has made over the China’s story of virtual justice and the state of corruption in both the country…byline is too much sultry-My Scam is better than your Scam!
Geo-politics:- Niall Ferguson’s brainchild CHINMERICA or Journalist Joshua Ramo’s coined term “Beijing Consensus” to draw the attention how China has maximized its stature and outgrew the “Washington Consensus” in investments, aid and trade to Africa appears too much apprehensive from western perspectives. China gave lease to such expectations by spending over $55billion during the 2010 Shanghai World Expo to remind the world that its economy remained unscratched from the grave financial recession of 2008. Undoubtedly, such showing of China and to an extant of India has rearranged the world of an Eagle {U.S.A}, a Dragon {China} and Elephant {India}.
Though this book adequately covers the India’s landmarks in foreign and strategic affairs but it scrimp few detailed take on China’s potential role in India-Pakistan &India-Nepal relation. China’s cold war era complexes are hardly fading away despite the all progress, it should be the India’s primary concern to leverage China for an all round collaboration because it’s alone China which tolls around half of India’s strategic attention. India know much better that the tag of “Sleeping Tiger” is things of past for China under the new ambition and feeble moral restraint.
Part three of the book, Entrepreneurs, Consumers and English speaking is naturally India-centric-remarks of George Soros on India “Your entrepreneurs have built world class companies which I simply don’t see in China…such views are common placed. India also has edge with demographic dividend and systemic transparency…the worst thing happened in China that its communal enterprise turned into cronyism. Still India is away from such large scale coercive methods to achieve quick and visible success…noticeable is the fact, era of Sanjay Gandhi never repeated in India unlike the Deng Xiaoping’s tracts that kept flowing relentlessly in China. China’s capitalism is complex and ambiguous; most of its enterprise is in state control or owned by the party organs and theirs command.
Part fourth of the book “Urbanization and Infrastructure” presents a sound comparison between India and China on the very important issues. Here China has lead with its single minded strategy on building infrastructure…India is now too following the big dreams with emphatic eagerness, the next few years will bring some level playing in this regard. The concluding part of the book revolves around “Social Infrastructure”-Raghav has succeeded to make his point that Chinese consumerism is on peak under the better equitable economic arrangement of China. The Indian case is of fifty-fifty market, which leading historian Ramchandra Guha said on India’s experiment with market reform…book ends with such conclusion.
At some front, China has edge but it’s grappling with many serious systemic flaws unlike the India where democracy is vibrant and freedom of action is inherent. Years ahead will be very vital for both the India and China… these two nations are now naturally placed to lead the world, if these two nations can collaborate in fresh spirits, theirs dominance will be enhanced many folds. More and more of understanding of Chinese policies are needed…work of Raghav Bahl is promising in this regard-addition of knowledge on China will be remain worthwhile from Indian perspectives…after all, we are now aspiring for new dimensions in our relationship.
Atul Kumar Thakur
May 31, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Email: summertickets@gmail.com
The two Asian giants-Indian and China are now undoubtedly the force to reckon with, after their long hibernation out of plundering colonial setbacks, these two nations are now retrieving their civilisational glory. With many commonness and ofcourse differences, relation between India-China stands on antagonistic construct…historically very close until the defiance of trust did by the China in 1962 that permanently fixed a big if in the psyche of Indians. Though with enhanced aspirations in new world order, both Indian and China are constructively heading to defy all the adverse obstinate impediments with wider framework to usher in a special kind of relationship primarily based on economic interests. Indeed it’s a way forward to cope with the swiftly changing geo-politics…time now is to revisit the history, politics, economics, culture of these two superpower with new insights but without burying the old prudence.
Raghav Bahl {Journalist, founder Network18 Media} did this superbly with his scintillating views and meticulous documentation that easily lead the readers to comprehensive realities of the race of dominance between the two powerful neighbors. This book, {SUPERPOWER? The Amazing Race between China’s Hare and India’s Tortoise} presents the narratives, how the India and China going to make history within their own set of rules. China’s monolithic political system and India’s vibrant democracy-both with their pros and cons are occupying a stout functional feet to show the resistance at global platform. Preface marks the distinction of Indian growth which is statistically sluggish than China’s achievements…title says it better, why don’t they get India?
Prologue of the book has demystifying hold, China and the Art of Escape Velocity? Napoleon’s quote which is an all time super remarks, vehemently define the China and its inclusion completely fit here. Paul Krugman’s The Myth of Asia’s Miracle: A Cautionary Fable gives an ample back up to consider on the Raghav’s insistence on knowing closely the intricacies of Chinese miracle vis-à-vis the leaders of world economy. Albeit it will be overestimation to anticipate by the assumptions that who’s going to be swift and finally on crest-China’s Hare or India’s Tortoise…here is need to be adequately judgmental.
Which way will history turn? Raghav is exactly right in reminding the readers that history unfolds over several decades, perhaps even in fractions of centuries and a search of perfect match of growth between these two countries will be an abrupt proposition. If China rebound post financial meltdown wit huge debt and vicious deflation side-by-side the weak demand and prices-India’s experience was much better with lower debt and modest inflation. It will be also worthwhile to know that India’s nominal GDP grew twice as fast as China’s for a few quarters-remarkably, it’s a first such experience in last three decades. So, the notion of India, who? Seems eroding with a positive world view for India story. Goldman Sach’s brainchild, BRIC {2001} strengthened the world views for India’s slot only next to U.S.A and China in the years ahead…this sounds realistic, even when the author himself acknowledge the many odds in the way but China is also not immune from adversities. For knowing the fragility of Chinese growth, reading of Premshankar Jha’s scripture like work on China “Managed Chaos “gives the appropriate scenic realities behind the China’s miraculous growth!
The Race Begins:- This is a catching nomenclature of a chapter inside the book which precisely relates to what the term exists between India and China. With big markets and sound indications, China and India have emerged as “shock observer” after the global financial meltdown-may be theirs ties will be shoot up atleast in economic arena but chances are feeble that China will give India any space within the ambit of its “Asian solidarity” block. This closeness of China naturally evolve the doubting stances over its intention but the aspiration for material growth is stronger than any other tantrums, so it’s possible that China will maintain a balancing ties with its most close competitor-India. Quotation of M.J.Akbar “The language of conflict has passed its sell by date. The poor want to be part of the Indian Rising Story” can be maximized here in Chinese context too.
A Hare on Steroids:- Chapter delves with the China’s downside of growth and its complex consumerism that yields many grave concern generally surpassed under the China’s complacent indicators. In next chapter “A Tortoise with new Muscle” inquisite the structural edge of India’s growth, here Stephan Rouch’s views gives sublime touch. The next chapter “Rule of Law, Rule by Law” searches the base of Chinese Law in “Patriotism”-infact, the Chinese state uses laws as policy instrument instead like western democracies where the principle of law believe as supreme and all public policy to be implemented within the law. Here, a missing link is quite evident from China’s own experiment with a liberal system in 1912, after the fall of Qing dynasty…today; China hardly carries even a tint of liberal vision of Sanayat Sen. Ahead of this, Raghav beautifully dwell with the India’s democratic experiments along with a full overview of Indian constitution. Reference of Bhagalpur incident of late 1980’s and Olga Tellis {1981, Bombay} protest against the BMC ruling of eviction for pavement dwellers present the uncomfortable face of our democracy. Next, a fine delineation has made over the China’s story of virtual justice and the state of corruption in both the country…byline is too much sultry-My Scam is better than your Scam!
Geo-politics:- Niall Ferguson’s brainchild CHINMERICA or Journalist Joshua Ramo’s coined term “Beijing Consensus” to draw the attention how China has maximized its stature and outgrew the “Washington Consensus” in investments, aid and trade to Africa appears too much apprehensive from western perspectives. China gave lease to such expectations by spending over $55billion during the 2010 Shanghai World Expo to remind the world that its economy remained unscratched from the grave financial recession of 2008. Undoubtedly, such showing of China and to an extant of India has rearranged the world of an Eagle {U.S.A}, a Dragon {China} and Elephant {India}.
Though this book adequately covers the India’s landmarks in foreign and strategic affairs but it scrimp few detailed take on China’s potential role in India-Pakistan &India-Nepal relation. China’s cold war era complexes are hardly fading away despite the all progress, it should be the India’s primary concern to leverage China for an all round collaboration because it’s alone China which tolls around half of India’s strategic attention. India know much better that the tag of “Sleeping Tiger” is things of past for China under the new ambition and feeble moral restraint.
Part three of the book, Entrepreneurs, Consumers and English speaking is naturally India-centric-remarks of George Soros on India “Your entrepreneurs have built world class companies which I simply don’t see in China…such views are common placed. India also has edge with demographic dividend and systemic transparency…the worst thing happened in China that its communal enterprise turned into cronyism. Still India is away from such large scale coercive methods to achieve quick and visible success…noticeable is the fact, era of Sanjay Gandhi never repeated in India unlike the Deng Xiaoping’s tracts that kept flowing relentlessly in China. China’s capitalism is complex and ambiguous; most of its enterprise is in state control or owned by the party organs and theirs command.
Part fourth of the book “Urbanization and Infrastructure” presents a sound comparison between India and China on the very important issues. Here China has lead with its single minded strategy on building infrastructure…India is now too following the big dreams with emphatic eagerness, the next few years will bring some level playing in this regard. The concluding part of the book revolves around “Social Infrastructure”-Raghav has succeeded to make his point that Chinese consumerism is on peak under the better equitable economic arrangement of China. The Indian case is of fifty-fifty market, which leading historian Ramchandra Guha said on India’s experiment with market reform…book ends with such conclusion.
At some front, China has edge but it’s grappling with many serious systemic flaws unlike the India where democracy is vibrant and freedom of action is inherent. Years ahead will be very vital for both the India and China… these two nations are now naturally placed to lead the world, if these two nations can collaborate in fresh spirits, theirs dominance will be enhanced many folds. More and more of understanding of Chinese policies are needed…work of Raghav Bahl is promising in this regard-addition of knowledge on China will be remain worthwhile from Indian perspectives…after all, we are now aspiring for new dimensions in our relationship.
Atul Kumar Thakur
May 31, 2011, Tuesday, New Delhi
Email: summertickets@gmail.com
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Unquiet Regulation
In India, RBI has an edge to regulate key financial markets-money markets, government securities market, credit market and forex market besides the usual role of a Central banker. This enables RBI to apply regulatory purview over the interconnected channels between banks and other financial sector entities-but with such unusual regulatory load, do RBI justify its every role as top authority from financial stability perspective? It’s hard to defy the growing overload on RBI-creation of Financial Sector Legislative Reform Council {FSLRC}&Financial Sector Development Council {FSDC} during the last Union Budget have even maximized the RBI’S overtures with Finance Ministry. The mammoth task and hyped expectations forced RBI Governor, D.Subbarao to accept the denial of additional arrival of debt market under the purview of RBI; he even laid stress for divulging the existing power from governor to respective committees on key policy decisions.
Out of conservatism and indeed with many insightful policy measures, RBI has ensured over the years a stable growth of Indian financial market albeit the shade on its autonomy and new circumstances in the post reform era have diminished its earlier touch on crucial policy matters. If RBI knows that despite hard efforts, still half of Indian population is unbanked, so the goal of financial inclusion is distant reality-on the other side, Finance Ministry works on popular temptations of growth instead considering inclusive and stable development of economy. Confrontations of RBI-Finance Ministry, especially in last few years have sharpened and it’s obviously an unfortunate outcome of Finance Minsitry’s intervention in day to day working of RBI. This is a worrying trend and must be checked out before the nerves of Indian financial market will be finally derailed from the esteemed regulation of RBI.
Following the incessant soft touch on credit policy and its ineffective impact on inflation in last few quarters, RBI has increased the Repo and Reverse Repo Rate by 50basis point and deregulated the Saving Bank Deposit Interest Rate. In a recent discussion paper on Saving Bank Deposit Interest Rate {RBI, April 2011}, the reason cited that monetary policy transmission has been suboptimal as it was unchanged since 2003 when the rate was last raised from 3.5% to 4%. As expected banking stocks promising negative past credit policy of RBI, hereafter atleast in short terms, investors will have to cope with the perplex scenarios.
Inflation is much bigger issue and RBI Governor, D.Subbarao sounds very rational when he said there is no quick-fix solution for inflation control in a rapidly growing economy like ours-in a complex economic matrix, it’s truly unreasonable to expect that only monetary policy will ease the pain of inflation. Those who are in political authorities have to realize sooner that inflation is not strictly the sole by-product of demand supply mismatch from the technical parameters of Whole sale Price Index{WPI}& Consumer Price Index{CPI}. The growing cohorts nexus among Corporate, Politicians, Government officials and relentless supply of unclean funds by many routes including suspicious Sovereign Wealth Fund, Participatory notes are making this nation reach in terms of obscene numbers of billionaires and leave majority lagging behind that itself narrates the story of our wounded economy.
Amidst the surging scams, Government/Regulators stand like mute spectators which mark the complete shift of democratic values. There uses to be time, when for a few lakhs rupees of wrong investment, Nehru’s son-in law and MP, Feroze Gandhi started a historic debate in the Lok Sabha [1958}on the state-owned Life Insurance Corporation’s investments in the dubious companies of a tainted industrialist, Haridas Mundhra {The Mundhra affair, Indian Express, December 12, 2008, Inder Malhotra}-though the financial charge was a few lakhs but Nehru’s response was in sharply contrast to what happens these days. He spoke of the “Majesty of Parliament” and instantly ordered a judicial inquiry by one of the most remarkable judges, M.C.Chagla. The inquiries findings led to the resignation of finance minister T.T.Krishnamachari and an exceptional Civil Servant, H.M.Patel. This was the first such case of high official’s sacking Indian democratic history but alas, similar couldn’t replicated here onward and what we witnessed the consistent erosion in democratic values with terrible misuse of power.
In such gloomy parochial atmosphere, it’s hardly surprising to see the working of regulators like SEBI&IRDA which runs like sovereign horse… without any clear mandate or essential /constructive intervention from government. G.Mohan Gopal, a former board member, SEBI has recently highlighted how the SEBI board abused powers to protect Chandrashekhar Bhave {Then Chairmen, SEBI} in IPO scam {2003-06}-it’s an open secret now how the Bhave has stagnated the highly promising Indian Mutual Fund Industry through many ambiguous regulatory changes. He scrapped the load regime that made this sector unhappening in terms of employment &further very unfortunate spate with the insurance regulator, IRDA over ULIP products finally forced the mutual fund business on fringe. Apart from jeopardizing the business, he outgrew the credible impression of fund management in India. Following the too much technical line, no big hope can be conceive from the new Chairmen of SEBI, U.K.Sinha…most of his announcement are equally ambiguous and unusual like predecessor and holds no bright prospects at all. Without any reversal on entry loads, he has plan to widen the geographical spread of mutual fund business, which is completely ironical…another big fatal, he is going to make by pushing the investments by foreign pension and retirement funds on the line of global markets. Ruling out a review on the asset qualities and nature of funds with an extra regulatory shortfalls, here in India, mutual funds’s ordeal is still seems far from being over.
Presently, Indian financial market is grappling with many awkward regulatory instances-a swift appropriation is worthwhile in some area by little more supplementation of regulatory measures and at other end, relaxation to let them work more freely and in accordance to situation instead of popular demands. As the entry of third generation private sector banks and many other reforms are on hold, government must collaborate with regulators much efficiently and without thinking of deviating political compulsions to forward ahead the Indian financial sector from this transition. Integrity and performance by the three regulatory arms of Indian finance-RBI, SEBI and IRDA will decide the overall growth of Indian economy in coming years. The unquiet regulation can lead to dooms, so it’s terrible and undeserving…an efficient regulation instead can further the broader task, so government should choose later and let make the ground clear for good and impartial business. But in meantime, we have to wait to see when and how the financial regulation will be streamlined…
Atul Kumar Thakur
Tuesday, May 23, 2011, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
Out of conservatism and indeed with many insightful policy measures, RBI has ensured over the years a stable growth of Indian financial market albeit the shade on its autonomy and new circumstances in the post reform era have diminished its earlier touch on crucial policy matters. If RBI knows that despite hard efforts, still half of Indian population is unbanked, so the goal of financial inclusion is distant reality-on the other side, Finance Ministry works on popular temptations of growth instead considering inclusive and stable development of economy. Confrontations of RBI-Finance Ministry, especially in last few years have sharpened and it’s obviously an unfortunate outcome of Finance Minsitry’s intervention in day to day working of RBI. This is a worrying trend and must be checked out before the nerves of Indian financial market will be finally derailed from the esteemed regulation of RBI.
Following the incessant soft touch on credit policy and its ineffective impact on inflation in last few quarters, RBI has increased the Repo and Reverse Repo Rate by 50basis point and deregulated the Saving Bank Deposit Interest Rate. In a recent discussion paper on Saving Bank Deposit Interest Rate {RBI, April 2011}, the reason cited that monetary policy transmission has been suboptimal as it was unchanged since 2003 when the rate was last raised from 3.5% to 4%. As expected banking stocks promising negative past credit policy of RBI, hereafter atleast in short terms, investors will have to cope with the perplex scenarios.
Inflation is much bigger issue and RBI Governor, D.Subbarao sounds very rational when he said there is no quick-fix solution for inflation control in a rapidly growing economy like ours-in a complex economic matrix, it’s truly unreasonable to expect that only monetary policy will ease the pain of inflation. Those who are in political authorities have to realize sooner that inflation is not strictly the sole by-product of demand supply mismatch from the technical parameters of Whole sale Price Index{WPI}& Consumer Price Index{CPI}. The growing cohorts nexus among Corporate, Politicians, Government officials and relentless supply of unclean funds by many routes including suspicious Sovereign Wealth Fund, Participatory notes are making this nation reach in terms of obscene numbers of billionaires and leave majority lagging behind that itself narrates the story of our wounded economy.
Amidst the surging scams, Government/Regulators stand like mute spectators which mark the complete shift of democratic values. There uses to be time, when for a few lakhs rupees of wrong investment, Nehru’s son-in law and MP, Feroze Gandhi started a historic debate in the Lok Sabha [1958}on the state-owned Life Insurance Corporation’s investments in the dubious companies of a tainted industrialist, Haridas Mundhra {The Mundhra affair, Indian Express, December 12, 2008, Inder Malhotra}-though the financial charge was a few lakhs but Nehru’s response was in sharply contrast to what happens these days. He spoke of the “Majesty of Parliament” and instantly ordered a judicial inquiry by one of the most remarkable judges, M.C.Chagla. The inquiries findings led to the resignation of finance minister T.T.Krishnamachari and an exceptional Civil Servant, H.M.Patel. This was the first such case of high official’s sacking Indian democratic history but alas, similar couldn’t replicated here onward and what we witnessed the consistent erosion in democratic values with terrible misuse of power.
In such gloomy parochial atmosphere, it’s hardly surprising to see the working of regulators like SEBI&IRDA which runs like sovereign horse… without any clear mandate or essential /constructive intervention from government. G.Mohan Gopal, a former board member, SEBI has recently highlighted how the SEBI board abused powers to protect Chandrashekhar Bhave {Then Chairmen, SEBI} in IPO scam {2003-06}-it’s an open secret now how the Bhave has stagnated the highly promising Indian Mutual Fund Industry through many ambiguous regulatory changes. He scrapped the load regime that made this sector unhappening in terms of employment &further very unfortunate spate with the insurance regulator, IRDA over ULIP products finally forced the mutual fund business on fringe. Apart from jeopardizing the business, he outgrew the credible impression of fund management in India. Following the too much technical line, no big hope can be conceive from the new Chairmen of SEBI, U.K.Sinha…most of his announcement are equally ambiguous and unusual like predecessor and holds no bright prospects at all. Without any reversal on entry loads, he has plan to widen the geographical spread of mutual fund business, which is completely ironical…another big fatal, he is going to make by pushing the investments by foreign pension and retirement funds on the line of global markets. Ruling out a review on the asset qualities and nature of funds with an extra regulatory shortfalls, here in India, mutual funds’s ordeal is still seems far from being over.
Presently, Indian financial market is grappling with many awkward regulatory instances-a swift appropriation is worthwhile in some area by little more supplementation of regulatory measures and at other end, relaxation to let them work more freely and in accordance to situation instead of popular demands. As the entry of third generation private sector banks and many other reforms are on hold, government must collaborate with regulators much efficiently and without thinking of deviating political compulsions to forward ahead the Indian financial sector from this transition. Integrity and performance by the three regulatory arms of Indian finance-RBI, SEBI and IRDA will decide the overall growth of Indian economy in coming years. The unquiet regulation can lead to dooms, so it’s terrible and undeserving…an efficient regulation instead can further the broader task, so government should choose later and let make the ground clear for good and impartial business. But in meantime, we have to wait to see when and how the financial regulation will be streamlined…
Atul Kumar Thakur
Tuesday, May 23, 2011, New Delhi
Mail: summertickets@gmail.com
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