Net Neutrality.

We are being bombarded with advertisements by a corporate from US aimed at convincing us that their offerings 'Free Basics Internet' is a must to alleviate the poor from the dark world, where they are with out access to internet. The advertisements make you believe that once they get access their problems may be solved and by 'denying' them this we may be committing a sin!!

If this were to be true, let me commit the sin and I may be called the sinner. 

Why? 

1. Because it is not clear how TRAI can regulate this entity whose operations are beyond the purview of Indian Law.  
2. Because 'Free' does not mean no cost. No one notices that the term charity and grant is not used. So it is Free for some but others will have to pay the bill for providing the Free services. Of course, for doing this ' noble thing the intermediary, will pocket costs for the services provided which would include the costs to service their shareholder. 
3. Because, we are not informed what this company tells its shareholder why these costs being incurred and what are the projected returns.
4. Because we could provide the lowest cost for voice calls with out the need for assistance from such corporates. So we have a model which is proven. Increase the competition and provide a level playing field; you can achieve it. 
5. Because, I would like to believe my government which may be just 69 years old but functions once in a while, to a company which is just 7 years old and may not be existing after the next 7. 
6. Because I do not want to believe in a company which cannot be sued in our courts and held accountable. 
7. Because the costs and profits generated by such a company is not taxable in our shores. 
8. Because such a company can choose to favour a political party, mostly the ruling one next time.
9. The sponsor in his Facebook campaign does not have an option to vote 'against' or say 'no opinion'. 

I did an impromptu survey amongst the persons whom I met int he course of the day at work today. Most of the elite class in the age group over 50 were against and the ones around 40, net savvy were for it. The advertisement blitz is having effect.

It is time such advertisements are regulated in future, especially, given the fact that there is clearly a 'Foreign Hand'

I hope the Net Neutrality remains and Free Basic Internet is not allowed.  I leave the readers with these two wonderful pieces which I read today.

• Crony connectivity, and Internet for us by Nitin Pai
• Nothing free or basic about it by Prabir Purkayastha 

RIP Sadhana - Sussane Hober Joseph.

Being year end and having the luxury of an extended week end allowed me to read at length the stories in morning paper today(26/12/15).

Two pieces, both obituaries are staying in mind; for their achievements and their life in general.

One  Style icon Sadhana - the erstwhile lead actor of those times when my friends introduced to these and more at college in Pilani. But it was tragic to know that she was all alone and desired to be left alone in her last days. It is very difficult to comment unless one knows the many reasons which made her choose this option; but it is suffice to say that the support systems should have been available had one chosen to come out of such self denials.

Contrasting this with the other obituary os Ms. Sussane Hober  Rudolph. I am not familiar with her writings or her. This is the first time I read about her. But it was touching and reflects how a determined individual can make provide an insight of the functioning of a society to which she does not belong.

A quote from her book will stay with me for long:

“The assumption that modernity and tradition are radically contradictory rests on a misdiagnosis of tradition as it is found in traditional societies, a misunderstanding of modernity as it found in modern societies, and a misapprehension of the relationship between them.”

RIP Sadhana, Sussane Hober Joseph.

Make In India - How to make it a reality... Suggestions

'Make In India' is  a very catchy slogan, with appeals all around. Since the word has been 'politicized' it has developed many hues and many are involved in the discussions. It is fair to say that there are genuine discussions and otherwise. Under otherwise, I would classify, interests of corporates, to see an opportunity to grow and capture value for their key stake holders, the share holders.

In this context, an interesting article by Mr. Josy Joseph titled 'For now Make In India is a mere Slogan', is timely. There are valid questions raised and opinions in this piece.

For me, a professional who has been in the industry and observing the 'Defence Procurement' as an option to diversify and scale business for the vertical I am involved in, had never escaped my attention, till I made a failed attempt.

It takes, phenomenal mental strength, very deep pockets and well established 'network' to enter the corridors of ' Defense Procurement'. Starting with specifying the requirement and inviting 'Expression of Interest' to 'Request for Qualification' to 'Request for Proposal' to  award, may take years.

To scale up involvement of Indian manufacturers in this process, (I am deliberately not using corporates for the tag of crony capitalism is unfortunately tagged to them, though I tend to disagree), it is essential that the procurement process needs to be thoroughly recast. A significant mind set change is also needed in  the administration of contracts.

Here are my suggestions:

1. Instead of 'Inviting' tenders or 'Expression of Interests', government should encourage grass root growth of the industry. For this initial set of resources (including funds) could be identified through committed groups, organisations or corporates. 
2. These groups shall be encouraged to work in clusters and an organisation shall be mandated to provide the initial set of resources, like seed capital, high technology labs, basic ready quality infrastructure and so on so forth. 
3. This organisation shall also be mandated to develop from drawing board stage components and products and involve competent firms from these clusters for  development of cutting edge products.

One can go on and on - but I am sure there are enough reports and studies which will throw multiple options and guidance for incubation of such clusters.

Another area which needs reform is the 'DEFAULT by government departments in honouring their commitments of the contract.

Today it is the norm to de risk the government from everything and pass it on to the other side. Arguments typically heard in such discussions are - "if you do not know why do you come for this?"

The fact is the risk which is passed on by government is unknown to them as well. Classic example of this is the management of 'Right of Way', which the law enforcing agencies are not able to acquire but private agencies are expected to!  

So there has to be a change of mind set and a participative approach has to be built in. 

Another extreme case is the withholding of funds and extracting guarantees. Today to do business with any governmental organisations means that you are required to leverage your balance sheet significantly and seek bankers support to furnish the multiple guarantees for possible liabilities, which may emerge out of the risks which I highlighted above - unknown to both sides but government is not liable! We hear many cases of invoking of Bank Guarantees in the industry that I am surprised there is no thinking on the part of government to look at the reasons for such large failure and identifying possible systemic flaws, which need to be corrected. 

This has to be the another major area of reform if we have to 'Make In India' successful.  

Does an Organisations 'culture' make you cheat?

I read an interesting piece in 'Pulse', the new LinkedIn app on my phone this morning and found it justifying the actions of a company who someone would identify as a cheat and betrayer!. The article titled "How Volkswagens company culture could have led employees to cheat" does make some interesting points. My take on this:

Culture of an organization is unique. It is like a community which develops its 'Code', some call it religion. They have their own rules, which define and what they believe shapes the future for the better for them. Some of them do openly defy common laws or beliefs with a clear conviction that is better for them! And that paves the way for breakthrough in any domain.

As a company is set up, its founders frame the 'Code' and set about doing their main business. As it grows and scales up, it inducts varied talent, which bring in different perspectives and beliefs. The marketplace is another high influencer. The governing guidelines imposed by regulators, who are entrusted with the supervision of these organisations, their practices and the civil & criminal laws, which organisations are to complaint with again dictate how the organisations shape up across geographies and emerge successful.

When the experiences of so many individual talents combined with rules and regulations around the globe, shape the policies and day to day actions of the company, 'Culture' emerges.

So ‘Culture’ is not something which is dictated upon by one or a group of individuals to a community. It is, I believe, a way of living, developed over a period of time. To lay the blame on an individual or a small group is therefore not appropriate.

Given the employment opportunities available in the market or fields to choose from and the diversity of beliefs, a culture cannot be sustained for long in a global enterprise across geographies, as in VW case for decades, if employees do not coopt. They are responsible for their actions as my much as employers. It is therefore incumbent on the employee to understand the culture of the organization when he or she reaches the middle management level, or enter laterally and make a choice. I believe that an organization which can openly be aggressive to deliver on certain key elements would always believe that certain inappropriate actions - inappropriate as in the general world - can be done time and again as long as their primary objectives and goals are achieved. 

Once the situation deteriorates and an unacceptable culture permeates a global enterprise, it is time for a sweeping change. Two sets of people can change this culture - incumbent Employees (if supported by other key stakeholders) and a Proactive Independent Regulator.

Solutions on offer can be many for a case if Employees were to decide to do something. For this they must work to overcome the 'moral muteness'.

But solution from the regulator point of view is only one - Merge with a more ethical organization.

If this is not done you can be prepared for another disaster, from the affected company or someone from similar.

Why I refuse and resist?

"Why I refuse and resist?" is a very good read on the Open Page of 'The Hindu' penned by Sri. Balaji Rao.

This is another exasperated outpouring on the issues around wedding celebrations which has become the norm since the last few decades. And yes - many would tend to sympathize with Mr. Rao and join him in resisting attending weddings.

If Mr. Balaji Rao had attended my wedding or that of my elder daughter, which I jointly hosted, he would be right on the dot with his complaints, if one chooses to complain on those facts highlighted.

But do I have any regrets or do I refuse to attend similar weddings. The answer is a resounding 'NO'.

I refuse to change because I want to proudly announce to the community around us - me, my spouse, the uniting families on either sides, that our children have chosen to marry and seek our blessings.

I refuse to change because such an event is Life time event which we want to celebrate with friends and well wishers.

I refuse to change because it gives me an opportunity to meet and say Thank you, even though very very briefly.

I refuse to change because, nowadays, my network of friends and relatives is large and it is impossible to host at home such a large number of persons. 

I refuse because on this occasion it is not for me to choose who I invite, but for them to decide.

So Mr. Balaji rao, I will call you for the wedding and I wish you choose to attend.

And will I do it differently. .hmmm. Please attend and see.

My walks.

I have been walking regularly since 1987, when my elder daughter joined the family and I became a more responsible man.

Walks have since been an integral part of my life. If I do not go for the morning walk, I miss something and if this continues for more than a few days at a stretch I have noticed I was not comfortable. Classic withdrawal symptoms of an addict one would say.

Yes. I am an addict of walking, especially the morning ones. And I would like to do it alone at my pace. That is the time I use to reflect on many fundamental issues and plan, partly dreaming of course. After the dawn of iPod, I started listening to music and podcasts. The varied lectures and discussions I listened to enriched me and opened new vistas that helped me engage with the next generation.

My favourite Podcasts vary from BBC Forum, BBC Discovery, DFJ Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders from Stanford University, audio book of 'The Economist', HBR Idea Cast and of course a couple of local news from NDTV. Overall the 27 minute Podcast of the BBC is absolutely ideal for me, as I turn off at the sea. Then on it is the turn of iTunes and my favourite ragas or artist. Listening to Carnatic music, especially a Kamboj, or Bilahari sung by my favourite artist like Abhishek or Sanjay is another event which I love.

Talking about the sea ~ the wind, waves splashing on the shores and the noise with the early morning sun rising above the way is such an addictive sight that I would not miss it for anything.

I have also been using an app since 2011 ' Map my Run' during these walks. And this App brought its own incentives. It collates data, while recording the speed. It gives me the feel of those days when I am little under weather, as I will not be able to do the 9.4 minute a KM and I know that I must be cautious. Other benefits include, a macro view - like it gives a monthly, annual summary and averages etc. So what are my walk statistics:

1. It has informed me that I do around 220 walks across each year ~ which means that at least I exercise for 4 days a week. 
2. I have not dropped my speed - 9 1/2 minutes per Mover 4 years and that is very good, considering that I am 59. 
3. It allows me to listen to my favourite podcasts and audio version of 'The Economist". 

The app worked very well through the years and helped me. I love this app and recommend this for everyone, who wants to track his workout to ensure that a habit is born and maintained.

So as I sign off this Blog, my only wish till the end I do these walks and see my favourite sea, listening to a Podcast in the route upto the sea and switching over to one of my favourite rags in iTunes on the return.

Chennai floods - lessons for Power Utility engineers and Decision makers

Chennai floods has seen new 'levels' with the water discharge from some of the lakes exceeding 30000 Cusecs. And to see that more than 35 lakes were overflowing adds another dimension to the possible raise of water levels in the city low lying areas.

So some of the key take away for me from this disaster are:

1. De link the city's distribution and hand it over to a separate company. It can be private or public sector owned. But it cannot be a block of a monolith like what the current situation is in Tamilnadu ~ combined with Generation company. Such a combination obfuscates the finances. 
2. Since infrastructure development requires huge funding, it is essential that this is addressed first. Form  a company and transfer the assets of city distribution to it; if there are generation companies near transfer to a subsidiary of this distribution company and have a separate balance sheet.
3. This will facilitate accountability and enable the regulator to fix appropriate tariff to recover the costs and facilitate the huge investments needed to upgrade and maintain the systems.
4. Identify the flood levels of each area and make sure that the substation is above this level.
5. It is time we up graded the substations. Given the significant softening of prices for Gas Insulated substations(GIS) it is time to replace all existing Air Insulated substation in the city and outskirts to GIS. This would also release significant land mass which can be monetized. 
6. If the existing substations are in low lying areas, relocate them at elevated ground or raise the FGL. In case of GIS substations the switchgear and all auxillary support such as DC supply, control and protection, ventilation and air condition systems shall be located at Ground plus 3 M elevation.
7. Any substation which has is more than 30 years old has to be dismantled and reconstructed taking in the new realities and must be and must be GIS.
8. Raise all LT Feeder Pillar boxes bottom to above 1.5 meter with respect to road levels as has been done for the ring main units.
9. Replace the existing feeder distribution arrangement of fuses to appropriate switching devises.

All these require investments and cooperation from the citizens. From the public point of view the key points are:

1. If Feeder Pillar  boxes are improved and switching devices are provided I am sure pilferage may happen. This has to be stopped by public action.
2. Feeder pillar boxes has to be  maintained well. Currently they are used by public as a convenient spot to urinate. This has to change. Public should raise their voice at such miscreants.

For fund raising we can opt for the old electricity act provision of introducing a surcharge for city distribution. This would show a recovery mechanism and funding agencies would look at it positively.

These are some suggestions. There are many more. But what needs to be done is definitive action; instead of forgetting the entire disaster and talking about heroics  or talking politics and blaming each other.

Chennai Floods ~ Marooned at Hyderabad

I live in Adyar and had gone to Delhi on a business trip on Monday 30/11. I finished my work and was schedule to return to Chennai on Tuesday night.

I couldn't as the airport has been shut off and I am now in Hyderabad, waiting. Though my day to day living is not affected I am anxious and wanting to get back home and see that what I am being told is correct.

There are many issues which crop up at this point of time.

The so called cellular network which is a technological break through has again let us down at this crucial juncture. I am unable to communicate with any one from here and when I went to the Vodafone show room they say that they are having this problem for the last two days. They don't even have the courtesy to message its customers of the issues. Absolutely money minded and not service oriented. If they cannot envisage such situations why are they expanding globally? Could they have got away with such breakdowns in UK or else where in the developed world where they operate? Another VW, I guess. Promises much.

Our own Airtel is again nothing to write home about. Same issues.

So the system design for such critical facilities should have plans for 72 hours back up and there should be a team placed to restore broken down elements to the extent possible; not the current model of out sourced to keep the cost down. It should be by their own employees who can be held accountable.

Another case is that of the drainage. Including me, we always joke that there are no civil engineers or Road engineers in Chennai. Every civil work is done approximately based on eye sight calculations and no clear workings. This is so because there is no defined foot path and no drainage in our roads. The excess drain water has to go through sewage system and that creates a huge problem for the sewage as it gets choked. Successive administrations are aware and sitting on this problem and will continue to do so.

After this deluge, the city has to own up and raise itself literally from below sea level to reasonable height to manage. Else the nest time we will become the second dwaraka or dhanuskodi; submerged with out a trace above water level.

As I see it we need to create artificial lakes to drain out the excess water from all areas and ensure that they can be pumped out. This way nor mal rains cane be managed. For excess discharge the existing river bans have to be strengthened / raised to carry the maximum discharge possible from the sluices with out inundating the city.

Let us work to achieve this.

Car Free Sundays

Car Free Sundays at Edwards Eliots beach is a wonderful move. Sponsored by leading corporate and brands, including the local brand 'The Hindu', it is catching on.

For me, a regular no.. addicted walker on these roads, it is indeed a great and welcome move.

One of the striking realisation for me, in this move, is the reclamation of spaces by public for their own purposes. It shows that we can collectively use the official machinery to get things done the way we want it done for what we consider as good.

Once the space is there, it allows building of habits and relationships around it. It provides the development of talents, teams and breaks barriers.

A welcome move indeed.

Hindu Dharma as I see it in the present world

An insightful article by Sri. Shiv Viswanathan titled 'Victims of war, apostles of peace' set me thinking as to what I identify as 'Hinduism' and why I am proud of calling myself as a 'Hindu'. Sri Shiv Viswanathan is a columnist and social thinker, whose views tend to bring new perspectives,

Yes I am theist and I believe in 'Hinduism'.

Our beloved Prime minister, has spent many days at a stretch and brought the attention of the world to India and its millions who are increasingly preparing to interact with the world's commerce and society at large. So there is increased attention on India and its unique offering of 'Hinduism' given that the platform in which he has claimed this spot is identified with 'Hinduism'. At the same time to may be distract an 'intolerance' debate is kept live and routinely stoked. Since everything touches, 'Hinduism' and what it stands for I thought I must question myself and answer it.

Hinduism is a way of life for me. One of its greatest 'virtues' is the definition of 'Dharmam'. What is 'Dhramam' for me is relevant to me and in my context. It need not be yours or anybody else's 'Dharma'. That doesn't it make it wrong.

It helps me understand and appreciate, uniqueness of every being and situation. It makes me realise that I am what I am because of this unique quality of creation and must therefore respect other's uniqueness.

So, how has this concept of 'Hindu' helped me through the years? To start with it has made me healthy. It has given me a sense of superiority as I believe that this concept helps me accept perceived defeats and explains the many games mind play on you, such as disappointments in finances, challenges in professional space, and rare snatching away of loved ones from amongst us. It has helped me more tolerant and may be turned to be more or less being docile to accept and practice 'Secularism' as I perceive it.

It has allowed me to change the way I lead my life whenever I choose to - from being a highly ritualistic person in the years, after marriage to minimising it now. It has helped me realise that I have to help others and above all in the context of what Shiv Viswanathan has said, it has made me non violent and abhor any form of violence.

Renewed thrust in Transmission & Sub Transmission

A news release from the firm I serve: BGR Energy secures Rs. 300 cr work order captures in brief the excitement we Transmission folks have been hoping for a some time now. While the previous 5 to 7 years concentrated ins significant creating of generation capacity, the issue of mis match of geographies, when looked at from generation location to high demand location centres, were not addressed. This is in spite of having policies to discover 'Congestion" charges. Two major issues, have been responsible for this revival. One is the revival of stranded capacity of gas power stations and under utilised capacities of pit head power stations due to the limitation of choice of buyers. The other is Renewables and associated distributed generation. 

As we launch on this new programmes, a much needed approach is the resolution of the 'Right of Way' through proactive policies and transparent & early dispute resolutions of the associated land parcels. 

Rains in Chennai

Chennai is seeing one of the worst flooding conditions in recent memory and as always every time we make the same noises. Bad planning, poor execution and so on so forth.

When will this be stopped or will it at all? The case in OMR is so pathetic. A new toll road constructed without proper drains and culverts. Building permission have been issued for so many multi stories buildings, with out holding them accountable for the storm water discharge from their compound to the public area. In short basic civic planning norms are never applied when engineering works are approved.

Add to that is the excess that every builder seems to have the right to commit. And this adds to the citizens woes. The productivity loss and the personal suffering which individuals go through are never under consideration.

On the other side 25 TMC ft of water has been discharged to the sea. No serious plan has ever been thought of to hold this runaway water and use it for basic needs.

My voice is one of the many which is overruled at the ballot as the local elections are so severely manipulated that this sorry state of affairs will continue for many decades to come.

VW vehicles with cheating fixes

I use Vento, a good car made by VW the German maker. The car is good and drives very well. I like the handling and the feeling in all respects including the mileage during long runs. But when I read the news about these guys having a software fix to cheat the regulator, I was upset and felt that I have been cheated.

I was waiting for an action by VW the car maker to come up with a plan to respond.

When I saw the response " Volkswagen diesel owners to get $ 1,000 in gift cards and vouchers" I was disappointed.

Will I accept it? No. I will seek alternatives. What are the alternatives I want? My wish list:

1. I want the software fix removed from my car and new Firmware installed which does not cheat.
2. I want the improved engine which would limit the emission to acceptable and agreed standards. I do not want to be driving around the car with a cheating engine. 
3. I want compensation for the time when I will not have the car - period during which the car will be attended to by VW in their workshop for rectifying the defects. 
4. I will wait for the licensing authority to decide on the fines which the corporate should bear for having mislead the citizens at large. 

If none of the above happens, I would sell my car may be in a year or so and change to a non German car and would through out my life say boldly that Germans can be Cheats.

Quitting Facebook makes one Happy

I read with interest the news item that 'Quitting Facebook makes one Happy' as I tend to agree. It is just by chance that I logged out of Facebook from all my devices a couple of days ago ~ just before the ensuing festival of Deepavali.

I felt better. And I didn't miss much.

And why I didn't I miss this. There are four main reasons:

1. I finished a novel in the two days; yes back to my old speed in finishing off a novel. 
2. I felt happy not to see Time, Washington post, The Economist and TED talks. I started feeling the normal person I am instead of what the Facebook posting was trying to turn me to. 
3. I was glad that I didn't have to see and like the cliches for Deepavali from friends, acquaintances and relatives turned Facebook friends.
4. And finally, I spent more time out of the web.

I have still not logged on to my account. Yes I do so once in a day and immediately log out. I like it this way and this is going to be the way here afterward.

Today's Readers Editor column " Journalism is more than algorithms" reinforces my belief that Facebook is increasingly assuming that it knows it all and is loosing its humility, in the chase of ever competitive advertising dollar. This approach may undo all that it is good in it. I wish more sense would prevail on them.

Arithmetics - Back to basics - Seriously

"Cast Arithmetics dis us in says BJP" screams the headline of todays "The Hindu". Seriously is the true import has been understood or they have used the message to explain away the results and move on with life as it is.

For the sake of Indian citizens, I wish they do and correct course.

What are the facts which are crying for understanding:

1. BJP led NDA has secured a little over 38% of the total votes plotted of 56%. Assuming 56% as a good sampling size, it translates to just over 20% of overall state population believes in them. There are 80% who do not believe in them, which includes some who do not care any way. 
2. BJP has also conceded that the situation was not much different at the Lok Shabha Elections of 2014; meaning they had only one fifth of the population with them when they gained power. 
3. Having gained power, if you any one had worked to add more to the tally ~ bring in more from the 80% group to their side, then this situation would not have emerged. 
4. Not only did they not act to bring from other side, they also exhibited their total lack of understanding of the electoral arithmetic and  planned to merge victorious on some whimsical grounds. This has undone them and will continue to hurt till they realise and change their overall approach.

What should be done:

• Law and order and freedom of action beliefs shall be respected and not be allowed to be politicised as they have peculiar way of impacting if you are in power. 

Sake Saath - Sabke Vikas, cannot remain as a mere sloganeering but must be seen to be translated to action. This should be seen to be done irrespective of who claims credit, for in the end once there is vikas, there are very few claimants to it and one of them is none other that our charismatic hard working PM.

BHEL Results

"Celebrating 50 years of Engineering Excellence" screams the caption over the unaudited Financial Results for the quarter ended 30th September 2015 of Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited.

Being a power sector professional I thought I will spend some time understanding what this '50 years of engineering excellence' has brought to the majority share holder. the average Indian citizen, you and me.

Here are the highlights:

1. In a Sales of Rs. 11596 Cr, BHEL has reported a loss of Rs. 292.89 Cr.
2. Trade receivables at the end of the quarter was Rs. 25868 Cr. To put it in perspective, last year sales was Rs. 29541 Cr (net of taxes). So 87 % of last year Sales is on credit.
3. Trade payables is Rs. 7944 Cr. 6 months cost of materials is Rs. 6953 Cr.
4. Employee expenses stands marginally higher at Rs. 1481 Cr ~ 25% of sales.

My take :

• Make In India was an actionable diktat in the first 20 years of independence. Later it became a  slogan. The current effort to resuscitate this proven remedy to many of our economies ills, hope succeeds.
• Administration of contracts and honouring of contractual commitments, on the whole and in particular in power sector is so lax that utilities can arbitrarily, function.
• Poor negotiating skills of central and state utilities,  with international funding agencies, have resulted in imports of capital goods, over decades, at the cost of local 'Engineering excellence'.
• Chasing a mirage of saving on initial capital costs and artificially driving for L1 bids across equipment and services, has resulted in under performance, under recovery of costs, eroding capital of major industries. 
• No planned hand holding of development of technology or solutions is practiced with equipment majors by even central utilities, leaving the country ever dependant on import of technology.

The collective failure of the central ministries, Power and Industries put together, hence by extension, the entire union cabinet has brought this behemoth to this state. Imagine what happens to other corporates driven and state funded industries in this sector. 

The current government has its task cutout to address this issue on an urgent basis.

PSUs ~ Current Models

PSUs have played a humongous role in building the infrastructure of our country. The model which some of the old timers (people around 50 plus today) are familiar with are the additional role they played in generation of employment, building of local infrastructure such as hospitals and schools. NLC is a standing example. Slowly they became tools in the hands of politicians to scurry favours starting from favouring their constituencies for the next capital investment to influencing employment etc.

Slowly the PSU transformed to behemoths and became a sink which draining the public exchequer.  So we saw action taken to wound down some of them.

We also witnessed in the utilities sector emergence of some central utilities like NTPC, PGCIL, NHPC, NHAI and so on so forth. These PSUs are different in as much as they were incorporated by the centre, but as per the concurrent list their main functions fell in the domain of the states. So here we have central utilities built with the cost of equity paid by the state and still not receive any return on the equity, while paying for the services at market determined rates, linked to international bench mark! Over the years, these central utilities have become behemoths and now a need is felt to encourage Private sector.

So we witnessed a burst of growth in private sector investments especially in two sectors Power Generation and Roads. But that has come down to a trickle owing to various factors. Now efforts are being taken  to entice the corporate back and hope their appetite will emerge.

In the process, some of the initial roles of PSUs and prime responsibilities got hijacked and we saw unparalleled imports, which has built some of the huge global brands in South Korea and China. This made the Indian corporate to attach themselves to some of these corporations for sustenance. Services rendered by Indian corporates, their accountability to the Indian corporate tax structure never figured in the factors, which weighed in the awards of contracts and investments. Chasing foreign borrowed capital, we threw some of our main strengths ~ namely the size and the strength it offers to negotiate a deal which would benefit the large mass of Indian citizens. 'Made in India' was given the go by. Thankfully once again we hear many nosies about the theme 'Made in India'.

What else can be done to correct, and bring back the focus the roles PSUs must play:

• Any capital project constructed in Indian soil shall be done by a Firm registered in India and hence are assessed under the Indian Tax structure. 
• Open siphoning of margins through 'High Sea Sale' contracts and 'Divisible Contracts' should be done away with.(Any way some of the projects are assigned the exalted status and claim exemption). 
• Each major infrastructure project generates employment, in the manufacturing sector, services sector and construction sector. PSUs are aware and actively encourage, under the garb of 'L1' bid, firms to work and optimise the cost of engagement of labour. There must be mechanisms which ensure that 'Direct' employees are employed and even 'Contract' labour are eligible for all the benefits. Open recognition of the cost of engaging 'Direct Labour' shall be factored for evaluation of a bid. They shall ensure that the employees who build the project, including the unskilled work force derive all the benefits starting from wages. These should be budgeted and expenditure monitored and shall become reportable in the statements of PSUs. 
• Cost benefit analysis should include factors like long term benefits to the Economy. Amounts spent in local area development including providing public health services attached to a Power Generation project of a PSU for instance, must be able to access cheap credit from the special schemes of the centre or grants. 

PSUs have become more important for their ability to raise capital and the other more important factors are being ignored. It is time a major structural reengineering is done and their role is substantially modified.

Inflation in Marks!!

Often we read about some of the colleges fixing admission for those who have scored 100%. An insightful piece with authenticated data (I believe because it is in The Hindu Publication) says that over the last 6 years, students who have scored more than 95% in CBSE have increased 23 times. This as most of us would tend to agree, by personal experience has become a chronic problem.

This way. the existing system fails in its primary duty of classifying the students in different groups. It is time that this issue is addressed and a better mechanism of examining the students is devised to bring out the differences.

CPGA seems to have failed. We need to look at alternatives.

At the other end, that is even after post graduation, most of the high performers we need grooming and in-depth training whatever be the field of employment.

Mismatch needs to be addressed as the money being spent on education by parents are being wasted.

Bihar Elections

There is so much which is happening in the Bihar elections. As an individual and as a 'Bahari' but Indian citizen, what do I look for as a positive outcome? My simple answer is ~ Outright victory for BJP. Why?

1. Because, after many generations, Bihar can again have an effective voice at the centre - not the obstructionist version. Congress did very little, except find specialists such as Babu Jagajivan Ram who could garner support and control at the centre but continue to ignore their home constituency. This is no longer possible. If you win the state elections and gain control at the centre, you better keep some of the promises made. 
2. For too long we have been in election mode and we need to return to governance. 
3. There are serious matters of national importance pending as the polity is fractured by individual and state level aspirations. For the better or worse, we need a central level party to look  at the nation as a complete unit and act.

Will the BJP win? 

I wager that they will. 

Why?

1. They have committed to work at booth level and ensure the first past the post work for them.
2. As this article brings out a new dimension - the kin of Bahari may be the swing factor. 
3. Caste does play even today - but can be overcome by other more mundane conditions. 
4. Anti incumbency.
5. The persona of our PM. You cannot discount the influence this will have on the rural electorate. Afterall they are seeing someone like this after Smt. Indira Gandhi and Sri Atalji.

Rejoinder on 8/11/2015

My predictions have proven wrong and way off the mark. The Mahaghatbandhan, has swept the elections. The fact that they might have had a vote differential of over 10% vote share in the final tally, speaks volumes at the alignment of the voters across ages, sexes and castes. No amount of rhetoric, could wean away the electorate from giving the leadership to Nitish. 

If there is one common factor that is common which cost the BJP Delhi and Bihar, it is the absence of  local tall leader. A bahari is not wanted by the electorate at the state level and that is the lesson which pollsters must retain from this election round. 

NJAC - Stuck down ~ Wrongly and must be corrected with a legislative effort.

Much has been said and written about this verdict. And for a change Arnab Goswami compered a discussion that brought out very interesting points. Prior to this were a series of articles and the Readers Editor of The Hindu had summed it up in his weekly report titled 'Moment to Cherish - Moment to Reflect' .

Justice Lodhas views as in the 'Op ed column' sum up one side of the argument and provides a good background to the views of the judiciary.

For me, as a citizen, this action of the judiciary to frown upon the executive, and comment adversely while not cleaning up their own domain, is a bad precedent and must be corrected through a legislative action. The constitution in Article 124 confers the power to appoint judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts on the President of India after consultations with such of the Judges as the president may deem necessary. As Justice Lodha indicated that 'consultations' has been interpreted as 'concurrence' by the judiciary. Sri Arun Jaitley, one of the most respected voices, in the current cabinet indicated many instances when this 'concurrence' has been misused.

The current genre of politicians have earned the distinction of being unreliable, corrupt and self serving and that has coloured the opinion of the judgement, is clear. It therefore assumes that the electoral system as it is in the present form, will continue to elect and empower legislature which will not be much different than the current.

Such premonitions may be well found given the mounting evidence, but does not justify by any stretch of imagination assuming the powers themselves.

The Judiciary has erred in assuming that it can provide solutions for every problem including appointing its own self. We cannot have a situation where there is continued 'Opacity' in the appointment of judges and there is a distinct possibility that a wrong decision can be made in the choice of future judges.

In my opinion, as mandated in the constitution article 124, Judges of the Supreme Court and High Court shall be appointed through a 'Consultative process', where the Legislature and Judiciary have to reach a consensus. None is superior over other ~ and each is supreme in its own sphere.

The moment has arrived when the institutions which our forefathers have framed, have to put down their mutual animosities, and mistrust and reach a consensus for a way forward. This is evident from the various exchanges, as both sides have admitted that there is scope for improvement in the current system of appointment of judges and that it is essential that this done early.

As Justcie Lodha majestically sums up in his article ~ " Appoint good judges; the rest will follow."

Another good lead by a respected Judge Re-Inventing the Collegium  

Dear Readers Editor,

I am surprised that my Reader's Editor is compelled to rely on his linguistic skills to justify the errors which continue to be reported in the process of bringing out 'The Hindu' as a final product. 

As you have eloquently defined Newspaper is a final product achieved through 'a collaborative process, where nearly 300 thousand words are processed for multiple edition by more than 800 journals within a limited time-frame with a single objective of projecting a comprehensive picture'. 

This is a process which is centuries old, but increasingly being supported by technology to drive timely delivery at multiple centres, better quality, better presentation and without errors. 

Today, there are many established systems such as KAIZEN, SIX SIGMA and other QC processes, which ensure near zero errors.  Having understood the process, it is the responsibility of the Editor and the management to put in place process improvements, checks and balances to ensure an error-free product.  It is also essential that these improvements are done in a closed loop manner. So for every error, there must be a corrective action plan implemented and verified. 

My Suggestions: 

1.  Each journalist  will be responsible and held accountable for filing an error-free report(component stage inspection);  In the event of errors cropping-up in the reports, he will have to file his report earlier for multi stage editing(introduce multiple checks to ensure error free component). 

2.  Once the journalist report is chosen for publication, the articles shall be scrutinised by Experts trained and who have the skills to identify the errors(Recruit many C.S. Naryanans or train persons to make Narayanans!).  These are human efforts and currently,  organisations like 'The Hindu' can invest in technology and develop a suitable system to make it operator free. 

3.  The Editor should set 'Zero Error' targets for each set of people and through stages to the entire Newspaper for brining out absolutely error-free edition and one day of a week, say, Saturday edition, shall be error free. Any error on the Saturday edition should be viewed seriously and punitive action taken.   

I love this paper and am making this suggestions encouraged by 'The Hindu' management and your pro-active plans. 

Regards, 
Balakrishnan V 
9840121596 

Founder's day

September 28th of every year used to be a date which I remember from 2003 for an additional reason - that it was the birthday of my CMD, BGR.

This year we observed it as the first Founder's day. 

In my wildest of my imagination I could have never thought of participating in one such function. Nevertheless there I was dressed up in simple office attire to participate and drove to the unit, where it all started for BGR in 1985.

The persons on the dais, his wife, children and the fortunate few of my colleagues who had spent more years with him than me, spoke along with a person from the worker group. They shared many tidbits and reminiscences, nostalgic memories. His daughter spoke of the personal side and shared some insight with those gathered.

The function set me off on to my thoughts to write my own tribute to BGR, whom I joined in Sept 2003.

It was a very simple decision for me to join BGR group, then GEA Energy.  The organisation, which I had worked in from 1981 till 2003 had made great strides, building up significant new capabilities and notched up achievements of national importance over the years. In 2003 it was taken over by a promoter group who had different plans. In the brief period that I operated under the promoter group, I learnt what is non professionalism. I also learnt how individual creativity can be effectively killed.

So it was refreshing to see BGR who as the CMD of a company though of much smaller size, speak out what I would later realise as the 'Management Thoughts' which I was missing and wanted at the workplace where I would serve. Added to that there was no locational change and the decision was simple. Encash the service record built painstakingly for over 22 years and move to other pastures. 

I am glad that I took that decision.

Having joined the company, it was clear from the initial days, that there were many people in the organisation, who are dreamers starting with BGR. (Many still continue) We were all employees of a small organisation, but with big thoughts and we always aimed at achieving some thing huge. 

Over time we proved that we can deliver on what we set out to achieve as a sequel to our dreams under the leadership of BGR.

Echoing the thoughts of the speakers at Founders day ceremonies, I believe BGR gave us that freedom, which has helped him shape the organisation he wanted it to be. He has taken it to the heights which we all of us are proud of today. 

Some of the dos and don'ts which reflect the qualities of a great corporate leader which I experienced first hand in the interactions with BGR and the policies he pursued are worth sharing: 

In the 10 years, I have worked with him, he has never ever overruled my decision on recruitment or procurement. If he doesn't agree he will share his views and make me change my recommendation or concur with mine. Never have I been handed down a decision. His resolve to honour commitments especially to the financial institutions is exemplary. He respected his executives, and was willing to reward performance.

Even when I did something which was to his total dislike, he felt it necessary to seek why I did it before reprimanding the action. Even though it was only once, he didn't mention it again. He was though highly opinionated and some of us knew to live with it. This aspect of his tended to favour a few and work to some other's disadvantage; but then it had its virtues as well.

He would expect his executives are respected by every one. Any one who is discourteous to his executive, will be treated as having been discourteous to him as well.

There were many dreams, which he had for the company through the division, which I head. One was to do something in optic fibre. I am glad that I made that happen, with we emerging as one of the preeminent performers in optic fibre installations associated with power lines. We won an award in nuclear project beating an organisation which he considered worthy of beating and that too by a whisker of a margin. He wanted us to bring in niche products, which we are yet to achieve and continue to work on it. 

He wanted the division to achieve at least a ₹1000 crore sales, with a order back log to sustain the operations and scale up. We are far away from that task and I am sure the division will work to achieve this dream also over time. 

The first order, for which we had celebrations in boat club lawns with all the key officers of the company and customer's representatives, was only Rs.30 crore. That was 10 years ago. BGR would now celebrate if we secure orders more than ₹1000 Crore and it will be my endeavour to work for it in the months and years to come. 

And when we do celebrate, which I am sure we will, we will not only miss BGR's physical presence, we will miss the great host in him as well.  Nobody will ever come close to the host BGR was. 

PADMINI SRINIVASAN

This page is dedicated to Ms. Padmini Srinivasan. I am starting this page with a request for all who have interacted with her, to recount and record. This paste shall serve to collate data on her life, her wishes, here successes and stories. She was an extraordinary persona and many loved her for what she did to them or what she represented. Once sufficient date is available, I will seek professional help to prepare a digital archive of her story. So I request every one to put their thoughts add photographs, her voices, her videos, scan and attach her handwritten letters or anything else. I want to create a reference document which the immediate family members would love to leave for the progeny.

24/10/2015. I listened to Brindavana Saranga 'Sri Rangapura Vihara". Every time I listen to this raga, this song comes and my sister's memories flood me. Her poise, confidence and ease with she used to render this piece will always resonate; she sang this song on the thirteenth day of our father and I broke down and wept uncontrollably for a while. Such was the power of her performance.

My dear Padmini

Chennai
10 02 2014.

Dear Padmini,

It is a month since I was delivered the shocking tearse statement that the medical specialists have goofed up and you are not returning home.

Yes. I should have cared more when you reported sick from work and took rest, complaining of pain. I shared a book of yoga asanas with the confidence that you would, as always sort out the issues that confront you through your own reading, dedicated, and persistent efforts.  You have shown in the past that your problems are solved by yourself. It is never shared with me even when we were in the same household, while I have always been there receiving your affection and support.

Yes I was the luckiest amongst the family and I can do no wrong, whatever I do (or not do). Being brought by well intentioned parents, but surrounded by orthodoxy and medieval attitudes of the patriarchal society, the younger sibling, me and being a male had the lion's share of everything. And their upbringing was so effective that we had built attitudes which never questioned the disservice done to you. All this while you added to it by doting on me.

I remember the days when Ambujam mami used to come and teach you music lessons, and I would slyly smile when you sing the stanza with Gopala Krishna Bharathiar mudirai in the Kedaragowla keerthana Sameke Sare Yevare. I also distinctly remember the Ananda Bhairavi and the Rithigowlai. It was followed by the days at crawford where I have memories of you lying down and reading and Amma scolding you not to do so.

Then it was time for me to move on to Pilani and see you only in my semester holidays. It was in the celebration of your marriage where I did see that I need to care more for you; but soon enough may be because of my character or your attitude I was again lulled into my complacency that I regret now.

As soon as I finished my graduation and was looking for a good career opening, your love and affection drew me to the infrastructure project which has formed the basis for my flourishing career. The simple frugal accommodation which was hired by you at Mangalore was shared by me and I feel foolish recollecting the attitude I carried as I always took it for granted. We had some very good time. I recall even now vividly the trips which we made with Appa to the udipi temple.

Then you moved to Bangalore and settled down and I had to follow; though this time on a career move initiated by me. But then you hosted me again. I do not remember ever even asking you what it cost you or openly ever saying thank you.

Then you attained the exalted status of 'Amma' which you loved so much with Dilip arriving. I moved to Koramangala and it was nice of you also to move in there. You worked in the background and made my wedding a success. I moved to Kochi and I remember you coming with family and spending time with us.

It was then time to have our own families and all along you were there for me. I never knew what you felt about me except that I can demand anything and everything from you and you would not say no.

The Brindavana saranga which you sang at the 13th day ceremony of Appa is fresh even today. I have heard many so called specialists handle this raga and the keerthana; but your voice and the emotions you poured into it is beyond compare to me.

I moved to Chennai and the contacts became more irregular. But you exchanged ideas and was always willing to give me a patient hearing and implement what you thought was appropriate for you and family. If at all there is something in which I pushed you hard and you did not do was to go ahead and make that trip abroad. Well I am sure you must have had valid reasons.

I also remember the Diwali of 2010 when I was in Banglore and we celebrated it together.

It was again wedding time in the family and you were the same active bubbly self who is everywhere whenever someone needs something or someone. You have always carried us all in your tender shoulders and large heart ubiquitously. You have been so good at this that even a fifty-seven year old matured adult has been lulled into complacency.

I didn't say this when you were amongst our midst - A BIG THANK YOU for everything you were to me. I am in this position in society and my career has grown up because of your encouragement and support in the early days of my career. Your unshaken belief in me did wonders and has been one of the reasons which has made me the person I am today.

I have two regrets though:
- I never realised what I didn't do to you and
- I never wrote this letter or say it to you in all the fifty seven years you were with me.

Life will never be the same again and I have to carry the additional burden and regret at not having returned enough to you.

Gopu.