Ratan Tata: A Farewell to India's Business Icon

 

Source- NDTV

On October 9, 2024, the world bid farewell to one of India's most revered figures, Ratan Naval Tata, who passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai. As the Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons and the leader behind the Tata Group's global transformation, Ratan Tata was not just a business magnate but also a philanthropist, a visionary, and a man who exemplified ethical leadership.

# A Titan of Industry

Ratan Tata took over the leadership of the Tata Group in 1991, guiding the conglomerate through a period of significant growth and globalization. Under his stewardship, the group expanded its presence in key industries like steel, automotive, IT, and telecommunications. Some of his most notable acquisitions include Jaguar Land Rover and the British steel giant Corus, which elevated the Tata Group’s international standing. By the time of his retirement in 2012, the company had grown to generate over $100 billion in revenue, marking his tenure as one of incredible achievement.

# The Visionary Behind Tata Nano

Source- Britannica

Ratan Tata’s vision extended beyond business success. One of his most ambitious projects was the Tata Nano, an affordable car aimed at providing an economical solution for India's middle and lower classes. Despite the challenges it faced in the market, the Nano remains a testament to Tata's philosophy of innovation with social impact—a recurring theme in his leadership. He once said, *“I don’t believe in taking the right decisions. I take decisions and make them right.”* This approach defined his entire career.

# A Life of Philanthropy and Ethics

Beyond business, Tata was a dedicated philanthropist. His leadership of the Tata Trusts, which control two-thirds of the shares in Tata Sons, helped to channel immense resources into healthcare, education, and rural development. Through the Trusts, Tata supported countless causes, ranging from clean water initiatives to scholarships for underprivileged students. His donations and initiatives made a tangible difference in the lives of millions, both in India and globally.

Ratan Tata’s philanthropic spirit extended to his alma mater, Cornell University, where he funded projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing education, agriculture, and nutrition. His deep connection with the institution was a reflection of his belief in the transformative power of knowledge.

Image credit- Finshots

# A Legacy of Humility

Despite his enormous success and influence, Ratan Tata remained known for his humility and approachability. His leadership style emphasized integrity and ethics over short-term gains, earning him the respect of both his peers and competitors. Even after retiring, Tata continued to inspire young entrepreneurs, investing in startups and encouraging innovation in fields like clean energy and healthcare.

# Tributes and Mourning

In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from across the globe. Indian President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and countless leaders from business and politics expressed their grief, acknowledging Tata’s vast contributions to the country. A day of mourning was declared in Maharashtra to honor his memory, and his last rites were conducted with full state honors.

# Conclusion

Ratan Tata’s life and legacy are a shining example of how business can be a force for good. He leaves behind not only a global conglomerate but also an enduring impact on the social and economic fabric of India. His humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to nation-building will continue to inspire future generations. As the world reflects on his contributions, it is clear that Ratan Tata was not just an industrialist—he was a national treasure, a visionary leader, and a humanitarian. 

In his own words, “I would say that one of the greatest pleasures I have had is trying to do something that everybody says could not be done.” His life was proof that with integrity and vision, the impossible becomes possible.


Team Yuva Aaveg-
Mayank

Exploring the silver dividend of Bharat

Credit- The Hindu Business Line

Why in news ? Recently many famous newspapers have covered this topic more than three times in last month . Let us know more about the silver dividend of Bharat.

What is silver dividend ?
The silver dividend is a term used to describe the economic potential of an aging population. It refers to the idea that tapping into the labour force of older people can increase a country’s GDP.

It encompasses goods and services that are specifically designed to meet the needs and preference of older consumers as well as those that are used by older people but can also be consumed by people of all ages

It is expected that the aging is done in a very fast manner in recent days . India is looking towards this rapid growth , which is 10 percent of total population now (in 2024) and it is expected that it will reach to 19.5 percent in 2050 . This is a very severe concern which is faced by the two most prominent countries of the world that is BHARAT AND CHINA.

There are many problems for caring of our grandpa. Let us discuss some of them …..

RISING HEALTH CARE CONCERN…..

·    If we talk about the current scenario for spending on old age people ,it is about 7 billion dollars . This is very big amount  of health sector to be spent on a particular age group.

·    In a survey it was found that about 75 percent of old age people are facing at least one chronical ailment which also shows a great concern that the expense for these peoples will increase at a very fast rate.

·    Also the same report tells us that 1 out of 3 old age people are suffering from a depressive symptoms which is badly effecting their brain as well as their bodily organs also .

How this sector can become a Silver dividend for us . Let us explore them …..

·   

Credit- Goodreturns

Comprehensive approach::

There should be comprehensive approach for developing the  infrastructure in the field of Health , Social and economic sector as well as digital sector .

·    The focus of government as well as our public must on the health literacy so that maximum people will be able to understand about their health . Because more health literacy will cause more awareness towards ones health.

·    Recently our government has started Ayushmann scheme for the peoples who are above 70 years . In this scheme it was said that the peoples will get a health coverage of 5 lakh rupees in a year. But the main problem with this scheme is that this scheme covers only a limited hospitals in a region due to which the patient who is suffering from a severe disease is unable to get a better treatment . Our government must focus on this serious issue so that the dream of Healthy India will complete very early.

·    There is need of a holistic reform in our health sector . We must learn from the health sector of the developed countries like USA, Canada , Europe , Australia like countries . We must look our health sector as a revenue generator not as a burden .

·    The government must come with the more and better schemes like SAGE initiative which takes care about our elder people.

·    The reach of tele consultancy must be promoted and backed by government as well as private players . This will definitely give a huge relief to those peoples who are unable to travel here and there due to their age.

·    The government must have focus on the skill development in the health sector also . Because the data which is discussed above shows that there will be a huge demands of well skilled caretakers, doctors , nurses etc. who can serve the elder peoples on their house.

·    The government is busy in other programmes also , so a responsibility must be carried by our societies, communities that we must have to raise awareness about their health as well as the facilities which is very easier available to them . The peer support groups must also be promoted by our governments which carries at least one health expert .

·    The government must have to target the current young age population because on 2050 they are the peoples who make our economy shine like a Silver…..

And in the last I will end this discussion by giving a message to our elder peoples by giving a quote ……..

Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.” – Theodore Roosevelt.

 

 Team Yuva Aaveg-
Shashwat

 

Ayush Ministry's 'Swarna Prashan' Initiative Launched in Odisha's Kalahandi: A Step Towards Holistic Child Health

 

Source- India Today

The Ministry of Ayush, known for promoting alternative medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, has taken a significant step towards nurturing child health in rural India. In an effort to boost immunity and overall well-being in children, the Ayush Ministry recently launched its "Swarna Prashan" initiative in Kalahandi, Odisha. This region, often noted for its rich cultural heritage, is now set to witness the introduction of a time-honored Ayurvedic practice that promises to provide children with a solid foundation for long-term health.

 

### What is Swarna Prashan?

 

"Swarna Prashan" is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves administering purified gold in combination with honey, ghee, and medicinal herbs to children. Gold is considered a powerful agent in Ayurveda for boosting immunity, improving memory, enhancing digestion, and promoting overall physical and mental development in children.

 

Traditionally, "Swarna Prashan" is administered to newborns up to the age of 16 years, with the ideal time being during the first five years of life. This age group is believed to be the most responsive to treatments that enhance the body's natural growth and development processes. Administering this blend on an empty stomach on specific days, particularly during the Pushya Nakshatra (considered auspicious in Ayurveda), is said to amplify the benefits.

 

# Why Kalahandi?

 

Kalahandi, a district in Odisha known for its rural landscape and often underrepresented in healthcare infrastructure, has become the focal point for the launch of the "Swarna Prashan" initiative. The region has faced health challenges such as malnutrition and limited access to advanced healthcare facilities. By introducing "Swarna Prashan", the Ayush Ministry aims to address these issues through a preventive approach rooted in traditional knowledge.

 

The initiative is part of the Ministry’s broader goal of integrating Ayurveda into community healthcare, especially in areas where modern medical infrastructure is limited. The focus on Kalahandi reflects the government’s commitment to reaching the underserved populations and promoting preventive healthcare in a holistic manner.

# Benefits of Swarna Prashan for Children

 

1. Immunity Boosting: With recurring infections being a concern in growing children, especially in rural areas, "Swarna Prashan" can help improve immunity and resilience against common illnesses.

 

2. Enhanced Cognitive Development: Ayurvedic texts suggest that the gold-based formulation helps in improving concentration, memory, and intellectual capacity, which can be particularly beneficial in early childhood development.

 

3. Holistic Physical Growth: The combination of herbs, honey, and ghee provides the necessary nutrients to aid in digestion, metabolism, and overall physical growth.

 

4. Safe and Natural: Unlike many modern medicines that can have side effects, "Swarna Prashan" is natural and has been used for centuries without documented harmful effects when administered properly.

 

The Launch in Kalahandi: A Community-Centered Approach

 

At the launch event, local families and healthcare workers gathered to witness the inauguration of the "Swarna Prashan" program. Traditional practitioners and experts in Ayurvedic medicine were on hand to demonstrate the administration process and educate the community about its benefits.

 

The Ayush Ministry is working closely with local health workers, anganwadi centers, and schools to ensure that the practice reaches as many children as possible. Parents were also provided with educational materials explaining the importance of "Swarna Prashan" and how it complements modern healthcare practices, giving children a holistic foundation for a healthy life.

 

What Does the Future Hold?

 

The *Swarna Prashan* initiative in Kalahandi marks the beginning of a larger movement to integrate Ayurveda into the mainstream healthcare system. With its focus on preventive healthcare and natural remedies, the Ministry of Ayush is looking to expand this program to other parts of rural India, ensuring that children in underdeveloped areas have access to holistic health practices.

 

The success of the initiative in Kalahandi could pave the way for a national expansion of "Swarna Prashan" and other similar Ayurvedic interventions, providing a sustainable and natural healthcare option for India’s younger generations.

 

Conclusion

 

The launch of the "Swarna Prashan" initiative in Odisha’s Kalahandi district highlights the Ayush Ministry's dedication to fostering preventive and holistic healthcare. By combining the wisdom of Ayurveda with community engagement, the initiative has the potential to transform child health outcomes in rural regions. As more parents embrace this traditional practice, we may see a positive shift towards integrated healthcare approaches that benefit children both physically and mentally, setting them up for a healthier future.

 

---

 

With this initiative, the Ministry of Ayush is not only reviving an ancient tradition but also addressing modern healthcare needs in regions like Kalahandi. Through the "Swarna Prashan" initiative, the government is reinforcing the idea that true health goes beyond mere treatment—it's about prevention, care, and building resilience from a young age.



Team Yuva Aaveg-
Mayank

Beyond Medals: The impact of the Paralympic Games on Society

 

Credit- The Hindu

#) Introduction:

          The Paralympic Games are more than just a sports event; they are a powerful force for change. Starting as a small event for injured soldiers after World War II, the Paralympics have grown into a major international competition. These games show the incredible abilities of athletes with disabilities and help change how society views disability. They promote inclusion and inspire millions of people around the world. This article will explore how the Paralympic Games impact society, share stories of amazing athletes, discuss new sports technologies, and look at the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive world.

#) Historical context:

   The Paralympic Games began in 1948 with the Stoke Mandeville Games, organized by Dr. Ludwig Guttmann for World War II veterans with spinal injuries. This event, featuring 16 athletes, marked the start of using sports for rehabilitation.

      In 1960, the first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome, Italy, with 400 athletes from 23 countries. The Games continued to grow, including the first Winter Paralympics in 1976.

     Since 1988, the Paralympics have been held in the same cities and venues as the Olympics, thanks to an agreement between the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Today, the Paralympics are a major international event, promoting inclusivity and challenging perceptions of disability.

India’s Participation and First Winner; India first participated in the Paralympic Games in 1968. The country’s first Paralympic medal came in the 1972 Games when Murlikant Petkar won a gold medal in the men’s 50-meter freestyle swimming event.This victory marked a significant milestone for India in the Paralympic movement.

 

#) Social Impact:

     The Paralympic Games have significantly influenced societal attitudes towards disability and inclusivity by:

 

●       Changing Perceptions: Highlighting the abilities of athletes with disabilities, shifting views from limitations to capabilities.

●       Promoting Inclusivity: Leading to improved accessibility and inclusivity in host countries.

●       Raising Awareness: Increasing public understanding and respect through extensive media coverage.

●       Legislative Changes: Acting as a catalyst for new laws and policies benefiting people with disabilities.

●       Social and Economic Benefits: Enhancing social security, employment, and education opportunities for disabled individuals.

 

source- Wikipedia

#) Athlete Stories:

Global Paralympic Athletes:

●       Jessica Long (USA): Overcame leg amputations to win 23 Paralympic medals in swimming.

●       Melissa Stockwell (USA): Former soldier turned Paralympic triathlete after losing her leg in combat.

●       Matt Scott (USA): Four-time Paralympian in wheelchair basketball, known for his remarkable recovery from illness.

Indian Paralympic Athletes

●       Devendra Jhajharia: Two-time gold medalist in javelin throw, despite losing his left arm.

●       Deepa Malik: First Indian woman to win a Paralympic medal (silver in shot put), paralyzed from the waist down.

●       Mariyappan Thangavelu: Gold medalist in high jump, lost his right leg in an accident at age five.

 

These athletes have not only excelled in their sports but also inspired many by breaking barriers and advocating for disability rights.

 

#) Technological Advancements:

●       Prosthetics and Orthotics: Modern prosthetics, like carbon fiber running blades, enhance speed and agility for amputee athletes.

●       Wheelchair Technology: Customized sports wheelchairs improve mobility and performance in sports like basketball and racing.

●       Assistive Devices: Specialized equipment, such as release braces in archery, aid athletes with limited mobility.

●       Smart Wearable: Devices like sensors and smartwatches provide real-time performance data, optimizing training and preventing injuries.

●       VR and AR: These technologies create immersive training environments, helping athletes simulate real-world scenarios.

●       Inclusive Design: Ensures sports facilities and equipment are accessible to all, promoting inclusivity and breaking down barriers.

 

These advancements not only boost athletic performance but also enhance the overall experience for Paralympic athletes.

#) Future Prospects:

The future of the Paralympic movement is bright, with several opportunities and challenges ahead:

Opportunities

●       Increased Visibility: Growing global viewership helps challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity.

●       Technological Advancements: Innovations in assistive technologies enhance athlete performance and daily life for people with disabilities.

●       Policy Influence: The Games drive policy changes and advocacy for accessibility and rights.

●       Grassroots Development: Investment in local sports programs nurtures future athletes and promotes inclusivity.

Challenges

●       Funding: Limited financial support for athletes and programs.

●       Accessibility: Ongoing barriers in sports facilities and public spaces.

●       Representation: Need for balanced media portrayal of athletes.

●       Sustainability: Ensuring long-term investments and environmental responsibility.

By addressing these challenges and leveraging opportunities, the Paralympic movement can continue to inspire and empower people with disabilities worldwide.

  

Paris Paralympic Games 2024

The Paris Paralympic Games 2024 are set to be a landmark event, showcasing the incredible talents of athletes with disabilities from around the world. Scheduled to take place from August 28 to September 8, 2024, these Games will feature 22 sports, including new additions like Para-taekwondo and Para-badminton.

source- X

Athletes and Indian Achievements

The Paris 2024 Paralympics will see participation from top athletes globally, including a strong contingent from India. India has achieved its best-ever performance at these Games, securing a total of 29 medals - seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze.

Notable Indian Winners:

●       Avani Lekhara: Defends her title in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 shooting event, setting a world record.

●       Sumit Antil: Won gold in the men’s javelin throw F64, breaking his own Paralympic record multiple times.

●       Dharambir: Clinched gold in the men’s club throw F51, setting a new Asian record.

●       Preethi Pal: Secured bronze in the women’s 100m T35 race and another bronze in the 200m, making her India’s most successful athlete at the Games.

●       Sheetal Devi: Became India’s youngest Paralympic medalist at 17, winning bronze in the mixed team archery event.

These achievements highlight the exceptional talent and determination of Indian para-athletes, contributing to a historic performance for the country at the Paris Paralympics.

In essence, the Paris 2024 Paralympics promise to be a celebration of athletic excellence and a powerful platform for social change, driving forward the message of inclusivity and equality.

 

 

Team Yuva Aaveg

Praveen Kumar Maurya

Women’s safety : Are they safe?

 

Image credit- Red Mango Analytics

Why in news : Recently we have seen that  a girl was gang raped/raped in   RG Kar medical college of Kolkata . It was a heinous crime against a girl . We the Indians always worship our deity in the form of Shakti Swaroopa goddesses like Devi durga ji , Parvati ji etc. But when it comes to the security of our women we always shut our mouth . The persons who stand for any women or girl are often criticized by many other type of people.

Are women safe in world? : Generally our country is considered as the Rape country of the world but many nations around the world is facing a very huge problem regarding this concern. Let’s understand it by some examples :

·      Sweden which is known as one of the most peaceful country of the world is facing the violence and sexual harassment against women very badly . In 2020 it has reported about 8000 rape cases while if we talk about rate of rapes in the Europe… Sweden becomes first in this list . It is 90 on per 100000 persons.

·      About 20 percent of women of USA are facing the sexual harassment.

·      A report on sexual harassment by WHO says that 1 in every 3 girl/women in the world are facing the sexual harassment.

·      South Africa in 2020-21 has seen about 40000 rape cases .

And many other countries which are developed are facing a huge problem regarding this concern.

What may be the reason behind it ? :  The crime against a woman is always said to be crime against humanity.  There are many cause related to these cases . Let us explore some of them …..

·      Lesson given by the parents : In our Bharat the girls are always taught to be submissive . It is also seen that the parents always try to feel their child girls that they are too much sensitive with respect to the boys of the society.  They never teach their girl child to be courageous. This becomes a huge problem for the girls in future .

·      Patriarchal society: Our society has always shown that the male always dominate over the female in every cases . The society always demoralizes  to our girls in these cases . Due to which they are unable to learn those things which are common to both genders . Many cases are in the society where the girls are never kept equal as like boys in family or society.

Objectification of girls : Our cruel society has always considered to our women or the girls as an object.  The Objectification is always wrong for our society .

There are many other problems like non- sensitivization of girls the discrimination from birthplace to workplace , also on the basis of caste , religion , class always happened in our society.

A report published by National Crime Record Bureau in 2022 shows that there are 450000 cases in Bharat which are against the women violence. 

Many steps regarding safety of women has been taken . Let us discuss some of them …

Vishakha guidelines : In the case of Vishakha vs the state of Rajasthan   Supreme court made a guidelines regarding this . It is popularly known as Vishakha guidelines.  In this a important decisions was taken regarding sexual harassment of women at workplace or any other place .

Justice verma committee : This committee was made after  A very heinous rape case o which is also known as NIRBHAYA CASE OF 2012 . This committee submitted it’s report in 2013 and asked government to make strict laws for sexual harassment and on women violence also .

Bhartiya nagrik samhita 2023  has also made strict laws for security of  women  from the Rape case . Section 64 and 65 of bns gives strict punishment after the Rape of a women.

Recently government of west Bengal has came with a law known as APRAJITA women and child act 2024 . In this act there is a strong punishment given to accuse within 21 days.

There are several other judgements regarding safety of women.

How our judiciary and administration is responsible? : In Bharat a proverb is generally said for out judiciary that Justice delayed is Justice denied. The courts in Bharat has became a secure places for the peoples who have done any type of crime . Although we believe in our system but we are not satisfied by the functioning of the system . A case generally takes 4 to 5 years  to complete it .

Our administration  is very lazy in taking action against the person who has done the crime . They became Active in only two cases. First when any side of that case gives them a huge amount of money in the form of bribe and second when there is an strict order from their seniors and political parties.

Conclusion: I have nothing more to say in this part . But our society must respect the feelings of every girl as well as women . And also the women or girl must respect the emotions of their parents as well as the society . It’s request to every male persons that create your personality so big that a girl or women always feels safe when she is with you . And in the last I want to say that ….

यत्र नार्यस्तु पूज्यन्ते रमन्ते तत्र देवता:।

यत्रैतास्तु न पूज्यन्ते सर्वास्तत्राफला: क्रिया:।

Where Women are honoured, divinity blossoms there, and where ever women are dishonoured, all action no matter how noble it may be, remains unfruitful.


Team Yuva Aaveg-
Shashwat

Lateral entry -need or just a propaganda?

 

source- business today

Why in the news?

Recently, the Central Government directed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to withdraw the advertisement seeking lateral recruitment for senior basic posts.

Why Centre Drops Lateral Entry Plan

 The opposition criticized the policy because it did not provide for reservation for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Castes (OBC).

Some NDA allies, such as Janata Dal (United) and Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) also opposed the move.

Lateral entry in India has sparked controversy due to its exclusion of reservation requirements for SCs, STs, OBCs, and EWS, leading to accusations of undermining social justice and the Constitution.

This has fueled concerns about increased casual and contractual recruitment, decreased posts for marginalized communities, and favoritism towards certain groups.

The Issue has further intensified with the recent controversy surrounding the recruitment of assistant teachers in Uttar Pradesh, adding to the broader debate on reservation policies.

About:

 

Origin and Application:

The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC), which was founded in 2005, firmly supported the notion of lateral entrance when it was originally presented under the 2004–09 law. Later, in 2017, NITI Aayog suggested bringing in knowledge and new viewpoints.

The induction of middle and senior management personnel in the central government was proposed by the Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGoS) on Governance and NITI Aayog in their 3-year Action Agenda of 2017.

 

Eligibility:

Those with experience in the appropriate domains and domain knowledge from the commercial sector, state governments, autonomous bodies, or public sector initiatives are welcome to apply for these roles.

The selection criteria usually prioritize subject matter expertise and professional accomplishment.

 

Reservation in Lateral Entry:

The “13-point roster” guideline has prevented Lateral entries from being included in the reservation system.

 

A candidate’s placement on a list of job opportunities is determined by applying the “13-point roster” policy, which uses a fraction of one hundred to calculate the candidate’s group quota percentage (SC, ST, OBC, and EWS).

 

Since every lateral entry position is regarded as a “Single Post,” these appointments can be made without according to reservation standards because the reservation system does not apply to them.

 

For each department, 45 positions have been separately posted in the current recruitment round. Reservations would be in place, with special allocations for SC, ST, OBC, and EWS candidates if they were to be viewed as a single category.

 

Process of Lateral Entry Recruitment

Selection process – by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The UPSC Is requested by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to handle the lateral entrance selection procedure.

UPSC invites online applications

Submission of application- the UPSC conducts interviews of the shortlisted candidates.

Recommendation of the list of selected candidates to the DoPT.

The government then appoints the suggested candidates, usually for a term of three to five years.

Source- Unknown

Recommendations of ARC on Lateral Entry scheme :

First Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) (1966):

It was founded with the goal of professionalizing and overhauling personnel management and training within the public services, and Morarji Desai served as its chairman.

Even while it did not openly support lateral entry, it set the stage for addressing the demand for specialized knowledge in the bureaucracy.

 

Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) (2005):

 It suggested changes to increase the efficiency, openness, and citizen-friendliness of the Indian administrative system.

 

The ARC highlighted the necessity of lateral access into higher government positions in its 10^th Report, as it can facilitate the introduction of specialized knowledge and abilities that may not always be found in regular civil services.

 

It suggested hiring experts from the business world, academic institutions, and government projects to build a talent pool for contract or temporary positions.

The ARC also emphasized integrating lateral entrants while maintaining public service integrity and suggested a transparent, merit-based selection process.

 

Need for Lateral Entry

Shortage of officers: There is a shortage of 22.48% or 1,510 officers for IAS cadre: DoPT

There is a 2,418 officer deficit in the Indian Police Service (IPS) and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS).

Domain Expertise:

Domain expertise from the private sector can be brought into the central administration through lateral entry.

 

This can boost productivity and foster competition in the delivery of governance.

 

Pros of Lateral Entry :

Specialized experience and Expertise: As governance grows more complicated, lateral entry enables the government to hire specialists with experience in fields like technology, management, and finance, filling in knowledge gaps that generalist civil servants might not have.

Innovation and Reforms: By contributing their rich expertise from the private sector, non-governmental organizations, or other organizations, lateral recruiters can assist improve and changing administrative procedures and governance.

Closing the Gap:

Data from the Department of Personnel and Training indicate that there is a 1500 IAS officer shortage. Lateral entry may be useful in bridging this gap.

Bringing about a Change in Work Culture:

 It will assist in changing the government sector’s work culture, which is criticized for its rule-book bureaucracy, status quo, and red tape.

Active government:

The government is evolving into a multi-actor, participatory endeavor in the modern era. Through lateral entry, stakeholders like non-profits and the corporate sector can get involved in the governance process.

 

Cons of Lateral Entry :

Short Tenure:

The three-year term that the Central government has established for joint secretaries is insufficient for newcomers to completely adjust to the intricate governance structures and make significant contributions.

 

Preserving Objectivity and Neutrality: Including people from different backgrounds may make it more difficult to remain impartial and objective because of possible conflicts of interest and questions about impartiality, particularly if new hires have ties to interest groups or private businesses.

Effect on the Morale of Permanent Officers: The growing number of lateral hires may cause a gulf between them and permanent staff members, which could be detrimental to career bureaucrats’ morale.

Possible Dilution of Merit-Based Recruiting: The civil services’ foundational merit-based recruiting system may be weakened by lateral entry. It could give the impression that the selection process is biased or nepotistic if it is not carried out transparently.

Outsider Syndrome: Because they are apprehensive about upsetting the status quo and causing chaos, traditional bureaucrats may be hostile to lateral entrants and see them as outsiders.

Experience Requirement for Senior Positions: Under the permanent system, IAS officers who have served for 17 years—typically at an age of 45—are promoted to the joint secretary level, where they stay for 10 years.

The best prospects may be discouraged from joining if lateral entrants are subject to similar experience criteria since they often reach their professional zenith in the private sector at that age.

Lateral entry in other countries

Several countries, including the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Belgium, have implemented lateral entry systems, allowing movement between government and private sector roles.

This “revolving door” model, while offering benefits like specialized expertise, faces criticism for potential conflicts of interest and undue influence, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, energy, and defense.

Concerns about this practice extend to various countries, with a particular focus on the energy and fossil fuel sector.

The Way Ahead

a.  Assure Transparency: Prevent suspicions of bias or favoritism by upholding an open, merit-based selection procedure for lateral hires that concentrates on pertinent knowledge, experience, and abilities.

The UK Civil Service Fast Stream program, which prioritizes applicants with specialized skills and knowledge, hires people straight into the civil service at various levels.

 

Training of Lateral Entries:

It is necessary to provide a comprehensive training program that enables people entering the civil service from the private sector to comprehend the intricate nature of work in government.

Clearly defined roles and expectations:

To ensure that contributions are in line with organizational objectives, clearly define roles, responsibilities, and expectations. You should also set up certain performance metrics and targets.

Reducing the Age Barrier:

 Candidates as young as 35 should be eligible to apply for joint secretary roles to draw in top talent. Economists like Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Bimal Jalan used to return from lucrative abroad assignments since they reached high positions earlier in life.

In summary

Like competition in any area, lateral entry has its advantages, but to guarantee that it leads to positive change, entry requirements, job roles, staffing levels, and training must be carefully considered. In addition, extensive administrative improvements require changes to the conventional seniority-based structure.

 






Team Yuva Aaveg-

Shashwat

IC 814: Kandhar Hijack - Story with various ends

The December 1999 major terrorist attack known as the Kandahar hijacking, or IC-814 hijacking, took place. The December 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814, sometimes referred to as the Kandahar hijacking, happened when the plane was traveling from Kathmandu, Nepal. It was a significant act of terrorism. Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 was taken over by five armed terrorists from the militant organization Harkat-ul-Mujahideen when it was traveling from Kathmandu, Nepal, to Delhi, India. The kidnapping took place over a few days and resulted in a heated standoff that was resolved in the Taliban-controlled city of Kandahar, Afghanistan.

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75.1) Hijack Timeline

Indian Airlines flight IC 814 was scheduled to depart from Kathmandu, Nepal, on December 24, 1999, and arrive in Delhi, India. There were 180 people on board the aircraft when it took off, including the crew and the passengers. Roberto Giori, the proprietor of De La Rue Giori at the time, which dominated the majority of the global money printing market at the time, was one of the passengers.

Senior steward Anil Sharma was approached shortly after the flight departed from Kathmandu by a man donning a ski mask, who informed him that he was carrying a bomb and that the plane was being hijacked. The hijackers gave Captain Devi Sharan the order to "fly west," and as a result, the aircraft entered Pakistani airspace. However, Pakistani Air Traffic Control denied the pilot's request to land in Lahore, Pakistan. Captain Sharan was given permission by the hijackers to land the aircraft at Amritsar, Punjab, in order to refuel when they informed him that there was not enough fuel to continue.

According to later passenger testimonies, the hijackers divided the males from the ladies and children, blindfolded them, threatened them with explosives if they did not comply, and ordered the crew to remove the lunch that had been served.

(1) Arriving in Amritsar, India, at 4:40 p.m., Indian Air Traffic Control (ATC) was notified of the hijacking. When word broke that the plane had been hijacked, the Indian government's Crisis Management Group, headed by Union Secretary Prabhat Kumar, did not meet, and neither the Research and Analysis Wing nor the Intelligence Bureau were informed of the hijacking at that time. At 7:00 p.m., Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Indian prime minister, received a briefing about the incident.

(2) The Indian ATC contacted flight IC 814 at 6:04 PM but had not received instructions on what to do next. Captain Devi Sharan informed Pakistani ATC that they were almost out of fuel and that they were not permitted to land in Lahore. Sharan kept in touch with ATC, asking them to get in touch with Pakistan and ask for permission to land since the hijackers had already threatened to execute ten hostages if their demands were not satisfied and they did not want to land in India. The Indian High Commission in Pakistan asked for permission for the jet to land there at 6:30 p.m., but they were turned down.

(3) After receiving a communication from Captain Sharan, flight IC 814 started to descend over the closest airport in Amritsar at 6:44 p.m., when local officials approached it. Later, Sarabjeet Singh, the state's director general of police for Punjab, said that he learned about the hijacking only after seeing it on television that evening at six o'clock. L.K. Advani, the Home Minister of the Union Government, later said that he learned about the incident via the press rather than from the Crisis Management Group, which has been constituted since then. Since Bakshi Ram, his replacement, was on leave at the time of the incident, J.P. Birdi, despite having recently resigned as the area's Inspector-General of Police, came into contact with the jet.

(4) IC 814 requested that the aircraft be refueled immediately upon landing. Later, Captain Sharan said that he had hoped that the Indian government would help prevent the hijacking and save the jet from having to take off from Amritsar once more. A local committee comprising the District Collector, the highest-ranking police and intelligence officials, and the airport manager was established in compliance with the Crisis Management Group's hijacking contingency plans. They were directed to postpone the plane's refueling as long as feasible. The committee had received these directives from the Central Government at 6:40 p.m., but their initial response was delayed due to a phone call that contained conflicting directions.

(5) Captain Sharan communicated with ATC four times throughout the takeoff and landing at 7:50 p.m., telling them that the hijackers had started killing hostages with Kalashnikov rifles and asking them to refuel the aircraft as soon as possible to avoid any more casualties. During the plane's stay in Amritsar, the hijackers had declined to speak with local law enforcement authorities. Subsequent reports claimed that the hijackers enraged about the refueling delay, had used a knife to attack Satnam Singh, a German national inside the aircraft, inflicting multiple neck wounds.

(6) The Crisis Management Group ordered the local Punjab Police Commandos to be on standby at 7:45 p.m. and to accompany the fuel-reloading vehicles to the aircraft in order to deflate the tires and immobilize the aircraft. The ATC instructed the driver of the fuel tanker, which was assigned to obstruct the aircraft's path, to slow down because the plane was approaching at a high speed. Upon getting this command, the tanker suddenly stopped. It was later discovered that this tactic led the hijackers to believe that the refueling procedure would hinder their ability to depart, so they gave Captain Sharan the order to take off right away. As a result, the aircraft barely avoided colliding with the fuel tanker on the runway. The hijackers had five people strapped into seats near the front with their hands bound, and they threatened to have them executed if the plane did not take off right away. At 7:49 p.m., the aircraft departed Amritsar, with Captain Sharan informing the ATC that "we are all dying." Just as IC 814 was taking off, commandos from the National Security Guard, an Indian special forces team, arrived at the airport.

(7) Arriving in Pakistan's Lahore: Flight IC 814 asked to land as it approached Lahore, Pakistan, but Pakistani ATC refused, turning down all of the airport's lights and navigational aids to stop a landing. Captain Sharan tried to crash-land the aircraft without using lights or navigational aids since it was running low on fuel and had not been refueled in Amritsar. He almost landed on a roadway. At 8:07 p.m., Pakistani ATC enabled the aircraft to land in Lahore by turning on navigational assistance.

(8) After learning that the aircraft had touched down in Lahore, Pakistan, India requested a helicopter to fly its High Commissioner, G. Parthasarathy, from Islamabad to the airport in Lahore. Additionally, India asked Pakistani officials to make sure the aircraft didn't take off from Lahore. Pakistani forces encircled the jet with commandos from their special forces and shut off the runway lights once more to stop the plane from taking off after it had been refueled. Additionally, they made an unsuccessful attempt to bargain with the hijackers to have the women and children on the plane released. Although a helicopter was sent for the Indian High Commissioner, G. Parthasarthy, he did not arrive in Lahore until Flight IC 814 had been refueled and cleared to depart.

(9) Arriving in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The crew left Lahore and headed toward Kabul, Afghanistan. The hijackers tried to land in Oman, though, as Kabul Airport did not have night landing capabilities at the time. When the Sultanate's officials turned down their request, the hijackers made their way to nearby Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The aircraft was given permission to land at Al Minhad Air Base after being refused entry at Dubai International Airport. 27 passengers were freed by the hijackers, among them Rupin Katyal, a 25-year-old male captive who was badly injured after being repeatedly stabbed by the hijackers. Before the plane touched down at Al Minhad Air Base, Rupin had passed away. The UAE government refused to give Indian authorities permission to attack the aircraft with Indian commandos who had received training in hijack rescue.

(10) Arriving in Afghanistan's Kandahar: India first accepted the Taliban authorities' offer to arbitrate between them and the hijackers after the plane had arrived in Kandahar. India sent a representative from its High Commission in Islamabad to Kandahar since it does not recognize the Taliban government. The negotiation procedure was hindered by India's lack of prior interaction with the Taliban regime. 

75.2) Demands

While the passengers on board Flight IC 814 awaited a decision, India decided internally on December 25 and 26 how they would approach negotiations. Subsequently, the passengers said that their meals were not consistent, they had restricted access to clean restrooms and drinking water, and the hijackers used the plane's public address system to spread their message to the other passengers.

In addition to the body of Rupin Katyal, who died while the plane was in Dubai, and Satnam Singh, who was attacked by the hijackers in Amritsar and had knife wounds to his neck, Indian Airlines provided a special relief plane on December 25. The plane carried 27 passengers who had been released.

Home Minister L. K. Advani had argued against trading the hostages for the hijackers' freedom because it would damage the government's reputation, but External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh supported talks with the Taliban. Ajit Doval, an official in the Home Ministry, Vivek Katju, a Joint-Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, and C.D. Sahay, a member of the Cabinet Secretariat, led the team of negotiators dispatched by the Indian government on December 27.

The negotiations failed when Taliban representatives first refused to permit Indian special forces to do a clandestine operation and then refused to permit their own secret forces to try one as well. Taliban officials encircled the aircraft with tanks to prevent any military action, and on December 27, one of the leaders told a local newspaper that the hijackers should either down their guns or leave Afghanistan. Negotiations on the demands of the hijackers were initiated by Indian officials, who took this statement as an agreement that the hijackers would be arrested by Taliban officials upon surrender. The demands were eventually whittled down to three inmates during discussions, along with the release of Sajjad Afghani's body, US$200 million, and 36 prisoners:

(1) Maulana Masood Azhar, who established Jaish-e-Muhammed in 2000, rose to prominence due to the group's suspected involvement in the assaults on the Indian Parliament in 2001 and 2008 in Mumbai, which claimed the lives of 44 CRPF officers.

(2) Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh was detained by Pakistani officials in 2002 after Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and killed. After being jailed in relation to the 1994 kidnappings of Western tourists in India, Sheikh went on to kill Daniel Pearl and is said to have had a major involvement in the preparation of the September 11 attacks on the United States.

(3) Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar has been actively involved in the training of Islamic terrorists in Pakistan-administrated Jammu & Kashmir after his release.

A.S. Dulat, the chief of the Research and Analysis Wing, spoke with Farooq Abdullah, the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, on December 30 in an attempt to persuade him to free two convicts as the hijacker had requested. These detainees were now housed in jails in Kashmir. After cautioning Dulat about the long-term repercussions of his opposition to the detainees' release, Abdullah finally gave in to the Indian government's demands. After being freed from a prison in Srinagar, Mushtaq Ahmad Zargar was taken to Kandahar alongside Sheikh and Azhar.

By now, both the hijackers and the captives had given up their firearms and permitted the hostages to leave the aircraft. According to passenger accounts, the hijackers requested that the passengers express their gratitude to the Afghan government. After that, money was gathered and given to one of the passengers, Anuj Sharma, who was told to use it to commission a souvenir of the hijacking for a Kandahar museum. Nevertheless, Taliban authorities transported the hijackers to Quetta, Pakistan, near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, rather than apprehending them and the three captives who had been turned over to them.

75.3) Conclusion

1. Hijacking: Shortly after it entered Indian airspace on December 24, 1999, an Airbus A300 carrying 176 passengers and crew was taken over. After the hijackers forced the jet to land in Amritsar, India, it took off again without being properly intercepted because of delays and miscommunication.

2. Journey to Kandahar: Before arriving in Kandahar, Afghanistan, the hijacked aircraft stopped in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Lahore, Pakistan. 27 passengers were freed in Dubai; one of them, Rupin Katyal, had been stabbed by the hijackers and was seriously hurt.

3. Demands: Maulana Masood Azhar, Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, and Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar are three extremists who are detained in India; the hijackers wanted their freedom. They also wanted the body of a militant who was killed returned, along with $200 million in cash.

4. Negotiations: Under the direction of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Indian government held vigorous talks with the hijackers. Although they served as middlemen, the Taliban, who at the time had control of Kandahar, were widely believed to be supporting the hijackers.

5. Resolution: Following seven days of talks, the Indian government consented to the three militants' release in exchange for the passengers' safe return. After the hostages were liberated on December 31, 1999, the insurgents were transported by air to Kandahar.

6. Aftermath: There were major consequences following the attack, and the hijackers were permitted to flee. One of the terrorists who was freed, Maulana Masood Azhar, went on to form the terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed, which carried out several strikes in India, including the attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001. The IC-814 hijacking altered how such emergencies were handled and revealed weaknesses in Indian security.

The hijacking of IC-814 is still regarded as one of the scariest incidents in Indian aviation and counterterrorism history, emphasizing the difficult tasks involved in responding to terrorist demands.

— Team Yuva Aaveg

(Adarsh Tiwari)

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