Finally I know my Regions :)
Friday morning 2nd July 2010, Weekend almost started as soon as I reached office as my desktop was just not waking up from the slumber.. Apparently, it was DEAD and I was happy. After a long time I went to library and went through journals and magazines when BOSS called up.
He asked 'kahan hei' (where r u?).I told I would be there in a minute. He insists 'where r u' ..I told Library and am coming :). (day before he was out smoking when I entered office @ 10:30, he arrives @ 7:30).
Big news, Ashutosh you have to handle toughest economies CHINA, TAIWAN and HONG KONG. It seems that they had asked 42 year old Chinese lady to put papers as I would handle this portfolio.
At least, she was Chinese and probably knew Chinese language...so why replace with me? Can't understand the logic but hurray at least I know my regions now :)
Meanwhile 3 IIM guys have just joined below us and then few from Narsee Munjee and other colleges at junior positions.
Good part about this job, Though I shifted from IT to Banking still I got designation matching my experience :) . Bad part...After 1.5 month in job, I have still now got my salary.
ICICI bank is my Borrower :)
So if you have loan from ICICI, you might be using my hard earned money :(
Friday, July 02, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Me @ ICICI! Kissa Kursi ka!
Week 1:
Day1:
Reported at Andheri-E office. HR had earlier informed me to get medical done after arriving in Mumbai (didn’t tell that it has to be before joining). So, they asked me to go for medical and then to join the office next day. No salary for 24th May , the first day in office. Bad Omen!
Caught a cab for lower parell and went through medical tests same day. Thereon proceeded to BKC- ICICI bank’s headquarters and joined the office on same day to ensure 24th is ‘The day’ for salary
HR still considers 25th as the day.
Day2: Asked for seat allocation. Discussed with Anirudh (boss). He told he will take care of it.
Day3,4,5: Friday and I was still without a seat, workstation and identity card. Got some gyan on international banking, bank products and ICICI from boss. Session were held in conference room, so still w/o seat!!
Week2:
Very optimistic that this week I would be most productive. Boss flew off to China for a week, super boss was out on a whirl wind world tour. No one to fight for me, so took initiative and ran door to door, drilled upto 4 levels to catch hold of person in authority. Blooper, the guy in question was not in India and none could take a call on his behalf..!
Wed, super boss came back to India and I apprehended him of the situation. He came out and surveyed the area to locate an appropriate work station for me. Finally things were working out but this was my perception! Next day, I prodded him further and got reply that my seat allocation is in his agenda. ‘Coz, he knows that I won’t be fully functional until I get my place in this building with ample capacity and empty seats.
Most unproductive week!
Week3
Boss came back from China on Monday but super boss was out on another trip. Frustrated, I went to HR who directed me to an AGM, someone senior than even my super boss.
Nonetheless, Anirudh asked me to analyze China market and asses risk off Chinese real estate meltdown. Hungry/Crazy for work, I stayed late night so that I could access computers of other colleagues after they leave! Did this for 2 days, passed on my suggestion and presented a ppt with typical MBA facts, figures and analysis. Enjoyed the work
Today is 10th, Friday of 3rd week and I still don’t have a seat! No work station.
I could be found sitting in library, reading journals, articles, books etc. on topics unrelated to my current job but would help me in future job search. !!
Suggestion Galore!
Oldies suggested, I should at least get my i-card, SIM# and other formalities done but in ICICI, until u have a seat you are not an employee! So, can’t apply for GYM, SIM, salary coz I cant access ICICI system from other computers as only 1 profile could be accessed from a terminal. Coming from IT, it sound archaic and stupid!
Librarian refuses to issue books w/o a card.
Security refuses to issue card w/o telephone extn on my name.
Exchange guys cant issue phone until seat has been allocated finally.
Welcome to ICICI bank!!
After 6 years in Infosys, where I didn’t spend a single day on bench; ICICI has shown me what frustration means!
Let me know if you have another job, I would do that for free but you need to commit me a computer and a seat!
Week 1:
Day1:
Reported at Andheri-E office. HR had earlier informed me to get medical done after arriving in Mumbai (didn’t tell that it has to be before joining). So, they asked me to go for medical and then to join the office next day. No salary for 24th May , the first day in office. Bad Omen!
Caught a cab for lower parell and went through medical tests same day. Thereon proceeded to BKC- ICICI bank’s headquarters and joined the office on same day to ensure 24th is ‘The day’ for salary
HR still considers 25th as the day.
Day2: Asked for seat allocation. Discussed with Anirudh (boss). He told he will take care of it.
Day3,4,5: Friday and I was still without a seat, workstation and identity card. Got some gyan on international banking, bank products and ICICI from boss. Session were held in conference room, so still w/o seat!!
Week2:
Very optimistic that this week I would be most productive. Boss flew off to China for a week, super boss was out on a whirl wind world tour. No one to fight for me, so took initiative and ran door to door, drilled upto 4 levels to catch hold of person in authority. Blooper, the guy in question was not in India and none could take a call on his behalf..!
Wed, super boss came back to India and I apprehended him of the situation. He came out and surveyed the area to locate an appropriate work station for me. Finally things were working out but this was my perception! Next day, I prodded him further and got reply that my seat allocation is in his agenda. ‘Coz, he knows that I won’t be fully functional until I get my place in this building with ample capacity and empty seats.
Most unproductive week!
Week3
Boss came back from China on Monday but super boss was out on another trip. Frustrated, I went to HR who directed me to an AGM, someone senior than even my super boss.
Nonetheless, Anirudh asked me to analyze China market and asses risk off Chinese real estate meltdown. Hungry/Crazy for work, I stayed late night so that I could access computers of other colleagues after they leave! Did this for 2 days, passed on my suggestion and presented a ppt with typical MBA facts, figures and analysis. Enjoyed the work
Today is 10th, Friday of 3rd week and I still don’t have a seat! No work station.
I could be found sitting in library, reading journals, articles, books etc. on topics unrelated to my current job but would help me in future job search. !!
Suggestion Galore!
Oldies suggested, I should at least get my i-card, SIM# and other formalities done but in ICICI, until u have a seat you are not an employee! So, can’t apply for GYM, SIM, salary coz I cant access ICICI system from other computers as only 1 profile could be accessed from a terminal. Coming from IT, it sound archaic and stupid!
Librarian refuses to issue books w/o a card.
Security refuses to issue card w/o telephone extn on my name.
Exchange guys cant issue phone until seat has been allocated finally.
Welcome to ICICI bank!!
After 6 years in Infosys, where I didn’t spend a single day on bench; ICICI has shown me what frustration means!
Let me know if you have another job, I would do that for free but you need to commit me a computer and a seat!
Monday, June 07, 2010
Home search in Mumbai!
“2 diwaney sheher mein, raat aur dupahar mein, aabo dana dhoontey hein”
(Two insane searching for a home ) lines from Amol Palekar’s movie still hold true in Mumbai!!
Arvind (ISB batchmate and ICICI colleague) came to mumbai on 7th May, I came on 24th. He had searched most of areas near Dadar for 2BHK and I did same in Andheri E. Too many houses, too much confusion due to uncertainties. Neither of us were sure how long would we stick to this job, I was about to be married but dates were not fixed so couldn’t commit how long I would stay with him. On top of it, he wanted to be close to happening places and I just wanted to save some while staying in bigger houses (even if a bit far from BKC). Again, further the house costlier would be transport, so break even calculation. Of all, biggest issue was our commitment to job, Mumbai and my marriage after which I would anyways move out to individual apartment. And if we have to break the lease then why pay broker such exorbitant charges now?
Choices:
• Furnished/Unfurnished/Semi-furnished – Considering above uncertainties, choice was difficult
• 2BHK/1BHK/Studio – I wanted individual room
• Dadar/Andheri/Third place
• Paying Guest – Never on our list
Exploring Mumbai:
1. Bhakti Park: Wow! Amazing place. High rise building. Rent 20K for 1BHK unfurnished, 26K for 2BHK. Blooper ..no eating joints nearby and we didn’t want liability of a cook.
2. Andheri East – Nice big houses, old buildings, furnished 28K 2BHK. No lift?? Sher-e-punjab is all that I explored in this area
3. Sion: Old apartments, no lift, 4th floor. 20K 1 BHK – furnished (bhakti was better)
4. Kurla: Kohinoor Appartments. Nice construction but apartments empty in phase II. 1 Km walk from main road. Rainy season in Mumbai would kill us . 30K 2BHK unfurnished
Suddenly, we realized that all confusion could go off temporarily by taking a furnished PG option. Costlier option but will give time for us to think and plan. Hence we hit the road again, Arvind had explored PG options long back even before I came to Mumbai but I told him I could find him a house .
PG Hunt:
• Bandra West: Individual semi-furnished room on Turner and Carter junction, 100 m from sea and nice owners. But Bath/Toilet not attached. 12.5K p.m. Another Uncle’s house near Tawa restaurant 13K and furnished room with attached B/T. Liked both the options.
What we didn’t know: Uncle is a drunkard and would tell you stories about his wife who had left him some time back. Arvind was ok with this, I was Scared!!! I instead liked the one next to sea
• Dadar: Arvind took me to a Gujrati uncle’s tailor shop. He called his guy in Gujrati and confidently told us to follow the guy, who took us to 4th floor by STAIRS. No lift. Déjà-vu
B/w Arvind liked a PG, Uncleji wala. Paid advance, moved in and moved out same night :)!!!
Now he is onto an auntiji wala PG!! She is 75, looks younger and plays cards in club!! Poor guy!
“2 diwaney sheher mein, raat aur dupahar mein, aabo dana dhoontey hein”
(Two insane searching for a home ) lines from Amol Palekar’s movie still hold true in Mumbai!!
Arvind (ISB batchmate and ICICI colleague) came to mumbai on 7th May, I came on 24th. He had searched most of areas near Dadar for 2BHK and I did same in Andheri E. Too many houses, too much confusion due to uncertainties. Neither of us were sure how long would we stick to this job, I was about to be married but dates were not fixed so couldn’t commit how long I would stay with him. On top of it, he wanted to be close to happening places and I just wanted to save some while staying in bigger houses (even if a bit far from BKC). Again, further the house costlier would be transport, so break even calculation. Of all, biggest issue was our commitment to job, Mumbai and my marriage after which I would anyways move out to individual apartment. And if we have to break the lease then why pay broker such exorbitant charges now?
Choices:
• Furnished/Unfurnished/Semi-furnished – Considering above uncertainties, choice was difficult
• 2BHK/1BHK/Studio – I wanted individual room
• Dadar/Andheri/Third place
• Paying Guest – Never on our list
Exploring Mumbai:
1. Bhakti Park: Wow! Amazing place. High rise building. Rent 20K for 1BHK unfurnished, 26K for 2BHK. Blooper ..no eating joints nearby and we didn’t want liability of a cook.
2. Andheri East – Nice big houses, old buildings, furnished 28K 2BHK. No lift?? Sher-e-punjab is all that I explored in this area
3. Sion: Old apartments, no lift, 4th floor. 20K 1 BHK – furnished (bhakti was better)
4. Kurla: Kohinoor Appartments. Nice construction but apartments empty in phase II. 1 Km walk from main road. Rainy season in Mumbai would kill us . 30K 2BHK unfurnished
Suddenly, we realized that all confusion could go off temporarily by taking a furnished PG option. Costlier option but will give time for us to think and plan. Hence we hit the road again, Arvind had explored PG options long back even before I came to Mumbai but I told him I could find him a house .
PG Hunt:
• Bandra West: Individual semi-furnished room on Turner and Carter junction, 100 m from sea and nice owners. But Bath/Toilet not attached. 12.5K p.m. Another Uncle’s house near Tawa restaurant 13K and furnished room with attached B/T. Liked both the options.
What we didn’t know: Uncle is a drunkard and would tell you stories about his wife who had left him some time back. Arvind was ok with this, I was Scared!!! I instead liked the one next to sea
• Dadar: Arvind took me to a Gujrati uncle’s tailor shop. He called his guy in Gujrati and confidently told us to follow the guy, who took us to 4th floor by STAIRS. No lift. Déjà-vu
B/w Arvind liked a PG, Uncleji wala. Paid advance, moved in and moved out same night :)!!!
Now he is onto an auntiji wala PG!! She is 75, looks younger and plays cards in club!! Poor guy!
IT to a banker!!
Post convocation (3rd April), I went to Chennai. Back on my way to Delhi (another train journey), I got information regarding my selection as Chief Manager, International banking group in ICICI bank. This was 5th job offer for me and I was again contemplating whether to say yes or no, so I bought some time instead. Interview for ICICI bank happened on 1st April 2010, just 2 days before the convocation and 3 days after our last exam in ISB. Though role sounded good but then JP Morgan had offered VP profile, so it was not about designation but where would I be after 5 years from now. Difficult choice!
Anyways, with no other option left except L&T Finance, I had to choose b/w two. I liked L&T profile but their salary was pathetic not that ICICI’s was presentable. So competition was not for better but worse of two. Nonetheless, I selected ICICI bank and planned to give a badly needed break from neck breaking job search.
I postponed ICICI joining by 3 weeks to recuperate from ISB injury as I was undergoing physiotherapy in Delhi.
Landed in Mumbai on 24th May 00:30 AM.
Checked in Deluxe room of hotel Regency in Chakala-Andheri (E) Mumbai.
Joined office same day in BKC (Bandra Kurla complex).
Impressed with BKC infrastructure, it truly is Finance hub in India with all central, private and public entities surrounding ICICI twin towers. 1st week in job is over, not much of induction but more of on the job training so far. 2 month of honeymoon period and then I would be given targets to get business from international banks in my region. Not sure but I think I might get toughest economies namely China, Singapore and Taiwan.
Finally out of IT and partly into Finance industry. Already talking about letter of credit, macro economics, fundamentals, bank guarantees, treasury. New world for a person with 6 years of pure play IT experience (non BFSI).
Not sure, how long would I cling to the job. When I came out of DCE (engineering), I changed 3 jobs in 3 months starting from Reliance energy to Siemens and finally to Infosys where I was forced to stay put!!
Getting married soon, bank balance is dwindling and responsibilities are increasing! Getting ready for another phase in my life!
Post convocation (3rd April), I went to Chennai. Back on my way to Delhi (another train journey), I got information regarding my selection as Chief Manager, International banking group in ICICI bank. This was 5th job offer for me and I was again contemplating whether to say yes or no, so I bought some time instead. Interview for ICICI bank happened on 1st April 2010, just 2 days before the convocation and 3 days after our last exam in ISB. Though role sounded good but then JP Morgan had offered VP profile, so it was not about designation but where would I be after 5 years from now. Difficult choice!
Anyways, with no other option left except L&T Finance, I had to choose b/w two. I liked L&T profile but their salary was pathetic not that ICICI’s was presentable. So competition was not for better but worse of two. Nonetheless, I selected ICICI bank and planned to give a badly needed break from neck breaking job search.
I postponed ICICI joining by 3 weeks to recuperate from ISB injury as I was undergoing physiotherapy in Delhi.
Landed in Mumbai on 24th May 00:30 AM.
Checked in Deluxe room of hotel Regency in Chakala-Andheri (E) Mumbai.
Joined office same day in BKC (Bandra Kurla complex).
Impressed with BKC infrastructure, it truly is Finance hub in India with all central, private and public entities surrounding ICICI twin towers. 1st week in job is over, not much of induction but more of on the job training so far. 2 month of honeymoon period and then I would be given targets to get business from international banks in my region. Not sure but I think I might get toughest economies namely China, Singapore and Taiwan.
Finally out of IT and partly into Finance industry. Already talking about letter of credit, macro economics, fundamentals, bank guarantees, treasury. New world for a person with 6 years of pure play IT experience (non BFSI).
Not sure, how long would I cling to the job. When I came out of DCE (engineering), I changed 3 jobs in 3 months starting from Reliance energy to Siemens and finally to Infosys where I was forced to stay put!!
Getting married soon, bank balance is dwindling and responsibilities are increasing! Getting ready for another phase in my life!
3 IDIOTS - 1st day 1st show
Watched 3 idiots, the Amir khan comedy. I mean dude, this is one of the best movie I have ever watched since ‘Dil Chahta Hei’ and 3 Idiots surpasses DCH by miles over.
Some facts that I would like to mention about 3 IDIOTS:
TIMING: It couldn’t have been better as right now is the placement season in depressed market, at least it is still depressed in ISB . So, MANTRA ‘All is Well’ really helps in this new age of communications where even rejection SMS come right on mobile while one is appearing for his exam..Wow. Climax
LEARNING: What is an IDIOT? Well Idiot doesn’t mean insane, Idiot is someone whom world assumes to be insane until the IDIOT come out a winner and people start following him GANDHI, HITLER, BHAGAT, Ram Prasad (this one was amazing), history is full of example.
“So, be an idiot or follow the herd” … Take is yours!!!
Watched 3 idiots, the Amir khan comedy. I mean dude, this is one of the best movie I have ever watched since ‘Dil Chahta Hei’ and 3 Idiots surpasses DCH by miles over.
Some facts that I would like to mention about 3 IDIOTS:
TIMING: It couldn’t have been better as right now is the placement season in depressed market, at least it is still depressed in ISB . So, MANTRA ‘All is Well’ really helps in this new age of communications where even rejection SMS come right on mobile while one is appearing for his exam..Wow. Climax
LEARNING: What is an IDIOT? Well Idiot doesn’t mean insane, Idiot is someone whom world assumes to be insane until the IDIOT come out a winner and people start following him GANDHI, HITLER, BHAGAT, Ram Prasad (this one was amazing), history is full of example.
“So, be an idiot or follow the herd” … Take is yours!!!
Train Journey to Chennai 31st Dec 2009
Just found a word document in which I had saved some blogs, ones which I forgot to upload. So these ones were long due!!
Today, since 8:00 AM in morning, I had been applying for this Schneider and Directi jobs after successive rejections from all the big consulting firms. Also, I have to submit the IRR report article to IDFC before 31st and then couple of more things to go before I could board 4:00 PM train today, 30th Dec 2010. Papers were getting over on 29th, earlier I had planned to call my family from Delhi and Chennai to my college, ISB at Hyderabad but then Dad rules …he refused ‘coz of other commitments. So, this weekend just before my exams, I had booked train ticket for Hyd to Chennai on 30th.
I think break would help after string of rejections, especially when everyone else is getting calls. May be I got low CGPA or more experience or a combination of both and worst or best part is that I have IT background. So…dude which consulting firm would hire an old game from IT but as it has to be let us just assume I got better place to go than being a rookie in top 5.
Won’t crib nymore and I usually don’t but five shots felt like 41 shots by Bruce Springsteen…pumped up my emotions a tiny bit.
TWIST IN STORY:
I slept late yesterday, working on couple of applications, for which deadline was 31st noon but I would be travelling then. So, I had to finish my applications today on 30th if et all I wanted to go to Chennai. So, I got up at 8:00 (3 hour sleep, usual @ ISB) worked on application after application and by the time it was over it was 2:00 and my train was at 4:00. So, I called security guy to get me a cab or an Auto…but then it is “HYDERABAD IS CLOSED OUT DUE TO TELANGANA ISSUE today”. Wow ..a cropper out of nowhere, I had lost sense of time, didn’t follow news. Anyways, paid autowala 100% top up and within 30 minutes I was hitting the road.
For first time (for me), a train arrived this late (kacheguda express late by an hour). Finally got into it after having 4 samosas and 2 tea cups. Belly is bloating right now.
Train started at 5:00, and I am writing this blog from train itself.
I enjoy the experience of train, I am travelling in sleeper class a different experience in itself. Train just stopped, which station is this? ‘ JADCHERLA’..small town in Andhra Pradesh.
Train is jam packed with Special Forces, wary of Naxalites or Telangana activists who try to sabotage the trains. Thanks to them we feel safer.
Anyways, So I was describing how I enjoy travelling in sleeper class. Here comes my favorite ‘Coffe guy’, he can fix a coffee in less than 1 minute for just 5 bucks. And I have to toil at home, wish I had one at home. And then comes the ‘Samosa’ wala and Magazine and TT and small time hawkers and hunch. Well, travelling in sleeper class always brings me back to my roots and tells me that I am privileged to get elite education and exposure. Many intellectual brains don’t even see the sun for lack of opportunity and other constraints.
And suddenly, again comes back the feeling ‘ALL IS WELL’. Don’t worry, life is beautiful..there is so much to it. So why crib about pity things, placement, promotion, wining, loosing and all. In the end all that matters is ‘how happy you are’? But then this will also depend on how comfortable you are, which needs Benjamin Uncle. So, fight out in this ‘Dog eats Dog’ world but ensure that ‘Happiness’ is a ‘WAY’ of life rather than the ‘AIM’ of life.
Be Happy no matter what! All is Well.
This is why I decided…Ashu beta go…jee ley Zindagi…take a break when other break their brains. And here I am travelling to my Big Bro to celebrate ‘NEW YEAR’ 2010…year when I graduate for one final time. Year that may define my future or India as well as world economy future …Guess Guess!!!
Time to switch gears, am back to IRR report..only 63% battery is left and the whole report to finish. Don’t think I would take chance by recharging laptop from un-calibrated power plug !! Cheers for now!
By the way, we have already hit ‘Mehbubnagar’ station..and its 19:05 PM.
Night is beautiful, winter is just dawning and its cozy even in South India. Cool wind is blowing, just located a white temple with red light shimmering on the top of 5 tomb roof ..wonderful. This is why flights could never replace the train, Joy of travelling in train is immense and given liberty of time, I would always travel by train till the health allows
Just found a word document in which I had saved some blogs, ones which I forgot to upload. So these ones were long due!!
Today, since 8:00 AM in morning, I had been applying for this Schneider and Directi jobs after successive rejections from all the big consulting firms. Also, I have to submit the IRR report article to IDFC before 31st and then couple of more things to go before I could board 4:00 PM train today, 30th Dec 2010. Papers were getting over on 29th, earlier I had planned to call my family from Delhi and Chennai to my college, ISB at Hyderabad but then Dad rules …he refused ‘coz of other commitments. So, this weekend just before my exams, I had booked train ticket for Hyd to Chennai on 30th.
I think break would help after string of rejections, especially when everyone else is getting calls. May be I got low CGPA or more experience or a combination of both and worst or best part is that I have IT background. So…dude which consulting firm would hire an old game from IT but as it has to be let us just assume I got better place to go than being a rookie in top 5.
Won’t crib nymore and I usually don’t but five shots felt like 41 shots by Bruce Springsteen…pumped up my emotions a tiny bit.
TWIST IN STORY:
I slept late yesterday, working on couple of applications, for which deadline was 31st noon but I would be travelling then. So, I had to finish my applications today on 30th if et all I wanted to go to Chennai. So, I got up at 8:00 (3 hour sleep, usual @ ISB) worked on application after application and by the time it was over it was 2:00 and my train was at 4:00. So, I called security guy to get me a cab or an Auto…but then it is “HYDERABAD IS CLOSED OUT DUE TO TELANGANA ISSUE today”. Wow ..a cropper out of nowhere, I had lost sense of time, didn’t follow news. Anyways, paid autowala 100% top up and within 30 minutes I was hitting the road.
For first time (for me), a train arrived this late (kacheguda express late by an hour). Finally got into it after having 4 samosas and 2 tea cups. Belly is bloating right now.
Train started at 5:00, and I am writing this blog from train itself.
I enjoy the experience of train, I am travelling in sleeper class a different experience in itself. Train just stopped, which station is this? ‘ JADCHERLA’..small town in Andhra Pradesh.
Train is jam packed with Special Forces, wary of Naxalites or Telangana activists who try to sabotage the trains. Thanks to them we feel safer.
Anyways, So I was describing how I enjoy travelling in sleeper class. Here comes my favorite ‘Coffe guy’, he can fix a coffee in less than 1 minute for just 5 bucks. And I have to toil at home, wish I had one at home. And then comes the ‘Samosa’ wala and Magazine and TT and small time hawkers and hunch. Well, travelling in sleeper class always brings me back to my roots and tells me that I am privileged to get elite education and exposure. Many intellectual brains don’t even see the sun for lack of opportunity and other constraints.
And suddenly, again comes back the feeling ‘ALL IS WELL’. Don’t worry, life is beautiful..there is so much to it. So why crib about pity things, placement, promotion, wining, loosing and all. In the end all that matters is ‘how happy you are’? But then this will also depend on how comfortable you are, which needs Benjamin Uncle. So, fight out in this ‘Dog eats Dog’ world but ensure that ‘Happiness’ is a ‘WAY’ of life rather than the ‘AIM’ of life.
Be Happy no matter what! All is Well.
This is why I decided…Ashu beta go…jee ley Zindagi…take a break when other break their brains. And here I am travelling to my Big Bro to celebrate ‘NEW YEAR’ 2010…year when I graduate for one final time. Year that may define my future or India as well as world economy future …Guess Guess!!!
Time to switch gears, am back to IRR report..only 63% battery is left and the whole report to finish. Don’t think I would take chance by recharging laptop from un-calibrated power plug !! Cheers for now!
By the way, we have already hit ‘Mehbubnagar’ station..and its 19:05 PM.
Night is beautiful, winter is just dawning and its cozy even in South India. Cool wind is blowing, just located a white temple with red light shimmering on the top of 5 tomb roof ..wonderful. This is why flights could never replace the train, Joy of travelling in train is immense and given liberty of time, I would always travel by train till the health allows
Friday, May 07, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
I had numerous discussion on this with my fellow ISBians, more or less with the BBG that includes my inner circle in ISB.
Well you must be wondering what BBG stands for..well I bet 1000 bucks u can't guess it.
BBG = Bakar Brahman group 'coz all of us usually roam around the campus and do absolute non-sense gossip on baseless topics...
Let me introduce you to my group:
Jasmeet Singh Marwah (meekest sardarji with Sharp brain, shortest ever temper, he is known as king of all narcissists in this universe)
Shashank Dixit (Frustatma - he is known to show frustration for no reason on anything that one cannot even dare to dream of..u call him and he will say...kyuuun utha diya)
Vishwanath Machiraju (Dance master, amazing skills - lives right next door and cribs at who took his milk, cups, sugar. It is usually me as I just go to good neighbors and let them help me to have tea at 4 AM in morning :))
Mouneesh Sinha (My quadi (same quarter), Bengali. He speaks so loudly that even when he thinks, I can hear in my room :) , his sentence starts with ...WAAAAAT [try to say what at loudest decible level and u may mimic him:)], if he fells sick only chicken can get him well and he thinks that veg food will make him sick )
Sudipta Ray (another bengali, she still owe me money, she is known to have guts to come to all parties without carrying purse...One needs to learn from her..we tried but paid :) )
Shweta Tewari (Suddi's quadi, chicken bhakt, another skillful dancer of our group, Jassi's right hand or may be its other way round)
Suddi and Shweta watched all episodes of Swayamvar (yes both editions)..and all kind of TV melodramatic serials.
Common link among all - Movies
We have watched almost every movie that has been released during our 1 year of stay at ISB. Also, used to watch old movies at mouneesh's quad while partying at our favourite spot - SV3 corner.
Will write a lot more on my stay at ISB...this is just beginning. I intend to provide a descriptive narrative of our life at ISB.
Past 1 year has passed by rather fast but it was fun, together we studied hard and partied nonetheless :)
This is 1 year that will stay with me for many reasons...friends that I made here..and ISB tag that will be with me forever..not to mention the knowledge gained.
But top of all....in all probabilities as my dad told me after my admission to ISB.
"Ashu, work hard but enjoy 'coz this is going to be your last student year". I remembered his words whenever I found it hard at ISB.
So, I will remember ISB for the learnings and fun that I had in last 1 year, after long 6 years of hard corporate life.
Well you must be wondering what BBG stands for..well I bet 1000 bucks u can't guess it.
BBG = Bakar Brahman group 'coz all of us usually roam around the campus and do absolute non-sense gossip on baseless topics...
Let me introduce you to my group:
Jasmeet Singh Marwah (meekest sardarji with Sharp brain, shortest ever temper, he is known as king of all narcissists in this universe)
Shashank Dixit (Frustatma - he is known to show frustration for no reason on anything that one cannot even dare to dream of..u call him and he will say...kyuuun utha diya)
Vishwanath Machiraju (Dance master, amazing skills - lives right next door and cribs at who took his milk, cups, sugar. It is usually me as I just go to good neighbors and let them help me to have tea at 4 AM in morning :))
Mouneesh Sinha (My quadi (same quarter), Bengali. He speaks so loudly that even when he thinks, I can hear in my room :) , his sentence starts with ...WAAAAAT [try to say what at loudest decible level and u may mimic him:)], if he fells sick only chicken can get him well and he thinks that veg food will make him sick )
Sudipta Ray (another bengali, she still owe me money, she is known to have guts to come to all parties without carrying purse...One needs to learn from her..we tried but paid :) )
Shweta Tewari (Suddi's quadi, chicken bhakt, another skillful dancer of our group, Jassi's right hand or may be its other way round)
Suddi and Shweta watched all episodes of Swayamvar (yes both editions)..and all kind of TV melodramatic serials.
Common link among all - Movies
We have watched almost every movie that has been released during our 1 year of stay at ISB. Also, used to watch old movies at mouneesh's quad while partying at our favourite spot - SV3 corner.
Will write a lot more on my stay at ISB...this is just beginning. I intend to provide a descriptive narrative of our life at ISB.
Past 1 year has passed by rather fast but it was fun, together we studied hard and partied nonetheless :)
This is 1 year that will stay with me for many reasons...friends that I made here..and ISB tag that will be with me forever..not to mention the knowledge gained.
But top of all....in all probabilities as my dad told me after my admission to ISB.
"Ashu, work hard but enjoy 'coz this is going to be your last student year". I remembered his words whenever I found it hard at ISB.
So, I will remember ISB for the learnings and fun that I had in last 1 year, after long 6 years of hard corporate life.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
PM Manmohan Singh recently mentioned, “Naxalism is single biggest internal threat to country”.
IS IT TRUE?
Not really, if we think in terms of current severity. We had Kashmir and Punjab, both driven by external support to internal discontented nationals.
But, if we evaluate the impact in terms of penetration then NAXALISM has potential to destroy Indian sub-continent. Unlike Kashmir or North-East, where terrorism impacted less than 5Million people, NAXALISM is prevalent in 30% Indian states and 450 Million people. Just imagine the impact on national politics and development if NAXALITES could further develop their support as they have been.
Remember BANGLADESH, how it suddenly appeared on world map after continuous oppression by its superior Punjabi and Sindhi rulers. We could run very well into such situation as Maoists run through single belt running from Andhra Pradesh to Nepal and then west Bengal.
HOW TO TACKLE MAOSIM?
Prime Minister and Home Minister suggested – Direct Action and use of power against Maoists
I agree – YES, I said it. I agree with use of force to CONTAIN the terrorism or Naxalism.
But, if you want to get rid of this issue permanently then INCLUSIVE growth is the only way out.
WHAT is stopping us from taking either kind of actions against them?
Think about it and think hard. Well, it is nothing but local politics as our politicians either get Maoists support in elections or use the issue to come to power. Either ways, local govt officials lack of antipathy and support from politicians provides these Maoists a safe heaven.
We can crack this by building closer coordination b/w central and local govt.
1. Train a new CRPF battalion to fight against guerrilla tactics, develop integrated intelligence unit across states and center.
2. Make poor believe that society is helping them:
Education: Initiate development activities in affected region, start by spreading education. Provide special assistance or scholarships to students from Naxal areas for higher studies.
3. Provide special assistance – subsidized fertilizers to farmers in the region.
4. Ensure PDS scheme is implemented and benefit reaches the affected families.
5. Bring industries, infrastructure development and connectivity in these areas. This will promote jobs and will hit the base of Maoist groups.
Will write more on this…
To write:
• Porter forces analysis of policing in Naxal areas – to identify SWOT
• Structured definition, analysis and conclusion of solution to the problem
• Letter to Prime minister and local parties – Tweet and Facebook Campagins
IS IT TRUE?
Not really, if we think in terms of current severity. We had Kashmir and Punjab, both driven by external support to internal discontented nationals.
But, if we evaluate the impact in terms of penetration then NAXALISM has potential to destroy Indian sub-continent. Unlike Kashmir or North-East, where terrorism impacted less than 5Million people, NAXALISM is prevalent in 30% Indian states and 450 Million people. Just imagine the impact on national politics and development if NAXALITES could further develop their support as they have been.
Remember BANGLADESH, how it suddenly appeared on world map after continuous oppression by its superior Punjabi and Sindhi rulers. We could run very well into such situation as Maoists run through single belt running from Andhra Pradesh to Nepal and then west Bengal.
HOW TO TACKLE MAOSIM?
Prime Minister and Home Minister suggested – Direct Action and use of power against Maoists
I agree – YES, I said it. I agree with use of force to CONTAIN the terrorism or Naxalism.
But, if you want to get rid of this issue permanently then INCLUSIVE growth is the only way out.
WHAT is stopping us from taking either kind of actions against them?
Think about it and think hard. Well, it is nothing but local politics as our politicians either get Maoists support in elections or use the issue to come to power. Either ways, local govt officials lack of antipathy and support from politicians provides these Maoists a safe heaven.
We can crack this by building closer coordination b/w central and local govt.
1. Train a new CRPF battalion to fight against guerrilla tactics, develop integrated intelligence unit across states and center.
2. Make poor believe that society is helping them:
Education: Initiate development activities in affected region, start by spreading education. Provide special assistance or scholarships to students from Naxal areas for higher studies.
3. Provide special assistance – subsidized fertilizers to farmers in the region.
4. Ensure PDS scheme is implemented and benefit reaches the affected families.
5. Bring industries, infrastructure development and connectivity in these areas. This will promote jobs and will hit the base of Maoist groups.
Will write more on this…
To write:
• Porter forces analysis of policing in Naxal areas – to identify SWOT
• Structured definition, analysis and conclusion of solution to the problem
• Letter to Prime minister and local parties – Tweet and Facebook Campagins
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Oracle vs SAP
Interesting article (click the link above).
Summary of SAP vs Oracle (unbiased :))
Key determinants in ERP purchase decision:
• TCO (total cost of ownership)
• Functionality
Oracle has better support standards with Fusion, SAP is comparatively not that well interfaced with other systems (say via BPEL, not all modules support BPEL in SAP)
SAP implementations are larger (more modules), more complex and hence costlier. Customers with complex businesses usually go for SAP
Oracle with its high adaptability (fusion) is better for evolving and growing\dynamic companies due to better scalability, integration and platform independence.
Oracle: Vertical Specialization Lacked big time until it acquired and integrated some partner products
SAP: Strong industry\business process driven products (18-25 industries)
SAP offers business processes - Oracle offers flexibility, scalability and integration
Interesting article (click the link above).
Summary of SAP vs Oracle (unbiased :))
Key determinants in ERP purchase decision:
• TCO (total cost of ownership)
• Functionality
Oracle has better support standards with Fusion, SAP is comparatively not that well interfaced with other systems (say via BPEL, not all modules support BPEL in SAP)
SAP implementations are larger (more modules), more complex and hence costlier. Customers with complex businesses usually go for SAP
Oracle with its high adaptability (fusion) is better for evolving and growing\dynamic companies due to better scalability, integration and platform independence.
Oracle: Vertical Specialization Lacked big time until it acquired and integrated some partner products
SAP: Strong industry\business process driven products (18-25 industries)
SAP offers business processes - Oracle offers flexibility, scalability and integration
Sunday, January 31, 2010
"India is walking a tight rope"
Indian GDP gets more than 50% from Service industry.
Service industry employees 1 Million workforce
Total Indian workforce is 500 Million
Lets reflect on India's growth and superpower status if IT comes down.
What needs to be done:
1. invest in infrastructure
2. Invest in R&D - Be a product driven economy
Indian GDP gets more than 50% from Service industry.
Service industry employees 1 Million workforce
Total Indian workforce is 500 Million
Lets reflect on India's growth and superpower status if IT comes down.
What needs to be done:
1. invest in infrastructure
2. Invest in R&D - Be a product driven economy
Sunday, January 03, 2010
QUOTE: Came across a beautiful Quote, that I usually try to live by!
So chill out while your work hard and learn to appreciate what you value most :)
Life is as beautiful as one sees it.
Don't try to achieve Happiness
Make Happiness a way of life!
“Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery but today is a gift and that’s why it’s called the PRESENT.”
So chill out while your work hard and learn to appreciate what you value most :)
Life is as beautiful as one sees it.
Don't try to achieve Happiness
Make Happiness a way of life!
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Carbon Trading: Is it right time for India to be aggressive on Carbon Trading?
Introduction
“In 1997, YOY increase in emissions accelerated from 1.5% to 3%, this was just after countries signed the Kyoto accord”. It seems that some developed nations were able to reduce carbon emissions. However, a closer analysis reveals that though the developed nations reduced oil consumption to control gas price, fuel was burnt at other places (China, South East Asia) and goods were shipped to meet the developed nations’ requirement. Did it give us a cleaner world? No, actually it worsened the climate and trade balance.
Was Kyoto accord, step to protect environment, a failure? And is Copenhagen another recipe for disaster? Why did Brazil and South Africa pull back their support to US soon after the summit? Why India is aggressive on Carbon trading? What stand should India as a nation take on this sensitive issue?
India along with China leads the world trade in carbon credits. According to government statistics1, around 35% of 819 projects registered under CDM, are from India. Due to high number of transaction and interface with international community, India needs to reconsider its policies and commitment before moving forward.
Let’s ponder over some of the steps taken world over and their impact on us.
Carbon Trading Industry - Origin
Carbon credits are a key component of national and international attempts to mitigate the growth of greenhouse gases (GHG). In 1997 Kyoto protocol, attempt was made to penalize irresponsible developed nations and to reward cleaner developing countries.
The idea was to allow market mechanisms to drive industrial and commercial processes in the direction of low emissions or less ‘carbon-intensive’ approaches. In 2000, the scheme was christened ‘Clean Development Mechanism - CDM’.
CDM validates and measures projects to ensure that they produce authentic benefits and are genuinely ‘additional’ activities that would not otherwise have been undertaken. Majority of carbon trading is driven by ‘Cap and Trade’ mechanism, which is ridden with flaws and needs makeover to avoid imbalance in world trade. Though treaty was a bold step but it overlooked issues such as one-way market, arbitrage and moral hazard.
Challenges from Cap and Trade Mechanism
As global carbon market stabilizes, existing trading margin will erode and hence developing countries are trying to sell maximum Carbon credits by 2012. Due to arbitrage opportunities in ‘Cap and Trade’ model, danger of another Lehman in making is hovering over, this time trading in futures and spots of carbon trading. EU recently lost more money to carousel fraud than they spent on Common Agricultural policy. These are some of reasons that raise questions on aggressive pace of carbon trading proposed in India, which was also reflected in Copenhagen.
Moral Hazard
Brussels and other part of Europe were infected by corruption in carbon credit market as corporate were forced to bribe to buy carbon credits. The way market is shaping up in India with lack of policies, its imperative that moral hazard and corruption could fail the cause.
Cap & Trade creates a sink-reservoir flow between pollutant and cleaner countries. It is most advantageous for energy companies with strong lobbyist and for government officials who can dole out kickbacks, from proceeds of pollution certificates, to favored industries. Unless ‘Cap and Trade’ model is replaced with a responsible and equi-distributive scheme, India will loose more on social capital than what it will gain from carbon trading.
India needs to take a balanced approach and tread carefully on carbon trading, lest nation burns its hands as EU did. We are more susceptible to the fragilities of ‘green gold’ market dynamics as genuine claims involve control and monitoring. These two aspects are in turn core drivers of one of biggest corruption syndicate in world.
"....Not publishing the complete article for now. Article has been written for publication in Indian Infrastructure Report 2010. Will publish complete article once Report is published in flesh and blood...."
Just found this article on economist today: China holds world hostage to its power
Introduction
“In 1997, YOY increase in emissions accelerated from 1.5% to 3%, this was just after countries signed the Kyoto accord”. It seems that some developed nations were able to reduce carbon emissions. However, a closer analysis reveals that though the developed nations reduced oil consumption to control gas price, fuel was burnt at other places (China, South East Asia) and goods were shipped to meet the developed nations’ requirement. Did it give us a cleaner world? No, actually it worsened the climate and trade balance.
Was Kyoto accord, step to protect environment, a failure? And is Copenhagen another recipe for disaster? Why did Brazil and South Africa pull back their support to US soon after the summit? Why India is aggressive on Carbon trading? What stand should India as a nation take on this sensitive issue?
India along with China leads the world trade in carbon credits. According to government statistics1, around 35% of 819 projects registered under CDM, are from India. Due to high number of transaction and interface with international community, India needs to reconsider its policies and commitment before moving forward.
Let’s ponder over some of the steps taken world over and their impact on us.
Carbon Trading Industry - Origin
Carbon credits are a key component of national and international attempts to mitigate the growth of greenhouse gases (GHG). In 1997 Kyoto protocol, attempt was made to penalize irresponsible developed nations and to reward cleaner developing countries.
The idea was to allow market mechanisms to drive industrial and commercial processes in the direction of low emissions or less ‘carbon-intensive’ approaches. In 2000, the scheme was christened ‘Clean Development Mechanism - CDM’.
CDM validates and measures projects to ensure that they produce authentic benefits and are genuinely ‘additional’ activities that would not otherwise have been undertaken. Majority of carbon trading is driven by ‘Cap and Trade’ mechanism, which is ridden with flaws and needs makeover to avoid imbalance in world trade. Though treaty was a bold step but it overlooked issues such as one-way market, arbitrage and moral hazard.
Challenges from Cap and Trade Mechanism
As global carbon market stabilizes, existing trading margin will erode and hence developing countries are trying to sell maximum Carbon credits by 2012. Due to arbitrage opportunities in ‘Cap and Trade’ model, danger of another Lehman in making is hovering over, this time trading in futures and spots of carbon trading. EU recently lost more money to carousel fraud than they spent on Common Agricultural policy. These are some of reasons that raise questions on aggressive pace of carbon trading proposed in India, which was also reflected in Copenhagen.
Moral Hazard
Brussels and other part of Europe were infected by corruption in carbon credit market as corporate were forced to bribe to buy carbon credits. The way market is shaping up in India with lack of policies, its imperative that moral hazard and corruption could fail the cause.
Cap & Trade creates a sink-reservoir flow between pollutant and cleaner countries. It is most advantageous for energy companies with strong lobbyist and for government officials who can dole out kickbacks, from proceeds of pollution certificates, to favored industries. Unless ‘Cap and Trade’ model is replaced with a responsible and equi-distributive scheme, India will loose more on social capital than what it will gain from carbon trading.
India needs to take a balanced approach and tread carefully on carbon trading, lest nation burns its hands as EU did. We are more susceptible to the fragilities of ‘green gold’ market dynamics as genuine claims involve control and monitoring. These two aspects are in turn core drivers of one of biggest corruption syndicate in world.
"....Not publishing the complete article for now. Article has been written for publication in Indian Infrastructure Report 2010. Will publish complete article once Report is published in flesh and blood...."
Just found this article on economist today: China holds world hostage to its power
Carbon futures and Spots – Is it another Lehman scenario in making?
Kyoto and Copenhagen will be good only on papers unless integrated sustainable solutions replace the hasten approach taken by world leaders.
India has very unique hierarchical structure, we need to implement comprehensive but practical analysis before becoming aggressive player in the market.
Till fossils are cheapest practical option available, its usage will increase. Raise price of fossils by including cost to society.
Kyoto and Copenhagen will be good only on papers unless integrated sustainable solutions replace the hasten approach taken by world leaders.
India has very unique hierarchical structure, we need to implement comprehensive but practical analysis before becoming aggressive player in the market.
Till fossils are cheapest practical option available, its usage will increase. Raise price of fossils by including cost to society.
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