Balaji : 10th International conference on Corporate Governance LONDON, 2009

Here is my 10th International conference on Corporate Governance LONDON, 2009 articles / white paper docs.


http://www.wcfcg.net/

http://www.wcfcg.net/10ICCG_Draft_Programme_14.09.pdf

Cheers,

Balaji K, MS PMP
+91-9900151719.

Govt to codify CSR, offer sops : ECONOMICTIMES : 23-NOV-2009; 10th International conference on Corporate Governance,See my thoughts at Point 6

Govt to codify CSR, offer sops : ECONOMICTIMES : 23-NOV-2009; 10th International conference on Corporate Governance,See my thoughts at Point 6
ECONOMICTIMES : 23-NOV-2009Govt to codify CSR, offer sops : Incentives Likely For Firms Spending More Than Rate To Be Fixed In Companies Bill, 2009 Souvik Sanyal NEW DELHI
THE MINISTRY of corporate affairs is working on the broad contours of a code that will require all profit-making companies to set aside an amount proportionate to their turnover or profits for corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, an government official said. The government plans to make the process consultative, rather than prescriptive, on the proportion of funds earmarked for CSR activities to make it acceptable for corporates, he said, requesting anonymity. Once finalised, the code may be woven into the Companies Bill, 2009, that is currently being considered by a parliamentary standing committee. The proposal, if implemented, will see private companies stepping up their CSR activity. Currently, profit making PSUs across sectors are required to shell out up to 2% of their net profit towards CSR work. The proposed code may see the government coming up with incentives for companies that spend beyond a limit on CSR activities. The government, which has roped in industry association Ficci to come up with a draft paper, may consider sops for companies doing CSR work. The matter will be deliberated at the Corporate Week, scheduled to be held next month. The week, which will see a dialogue between the government and corporates, will aim at reaffirming India Inc’s commitment towards inclusive growth and sustainable development. Minister for corporate affairs Salman Khurshid had recently said that companies may even be extended fiscal relief for their involvement in CSR work. “Industry has a positive approach for extending their support towards CSR initiatives because of their business interests involved in the same,” said a person familiar with the making of the code.With the government showing some willingness to incentivise corporates for doing their bit towards social development, companies should not oppose any effort by the government to make profitable companies accountable, he said, requesting anonymity. The minister had said that one of the ways to attract companies towards CSR work is to develop a system of CSR credits, similar to carbon credits which are given to companies for green initiatives. While a method for offering incentives has not yet been finalised, the sops could be in the form of fiscal benefits equivalent to the credit points they have earned. : souvik.sanyal@timesgroup.com
http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=ETNEW&BaseHref=ETBG/2009/11/23&EntityId=Ar00904&GZ=T&AppName=1&ViewMode=HTML&GZ=T

Open Source Sofware for INDIA Benefit : http://www.networkcomputing.in/news-022sept009-open-source-can-help-india-save-10000crore-says-iim-b-study.asp

After a long time I am back to my Blog Site..

I discussed couple of months back HOW Open software could help INDIA in my Article : My Vision for INDIA dated : http://balajithoughtworks.blogspot.com/2009/03/my-vision-for-india-to-change-its.html ; Sunday, March 29, 2009.

Here is supportive research report from IIM B validating this thought process and IDEA.

http://www.networkcomputing.in/news-022sept009-open-source-can-help-india-save-10000crore-says-iim-b-study.aspx

I am refering the aritcle for reader's ..
+++++++
Open Source can Help India Save Rs 10,000 crore, says IIM-B Study
By replacing just 50 percent of proprietary software with open source in desktops and servers in 2010, India can save close to Rs 10,000 crore, says a recent research report by IIM Bangalore
By Srikanth RP, NC, September 22, 2009 1030 hrs
Even as the current economic climate has compelled the Indian government to go on the austerity drive, by asking its ministers to air travel by economy class – a more compelling option may lie in looking at replacing proprietary software with open source. A recent report titled, 'Economic Impact of Free and Open Source software – A Study in India', by a team at IIM-Bangalore, highlights several interesting insights, that show how by replacing just 50 percent of proprietary software with open source in desktops and servers, India can save close to Rs 10,000 crore in 2010.

For example, retail PC sales are projected to reach 5.47 million units by 2010. If open source software is used instead of proprietary software in only 50 percent of the projected retail PC base, then savings per PC for replacement of Office Productivity tools, is estimated to be Rs 16,500 per unit, says the IIM-B study. The total savings for the 50 percent (2.735 million units) of the projected retail PC base (using open source software) amount to Rs 4,512 crore. Similarly, for the enterprise PC market, the total savings at 50 percent projected sales of enterprise PCs in 2010, amount to a staggering Rs 4638 crore. Applying the same logic on the server side, the study says that total savings amount to Rs 138 crore.

Led under the guidance of Professor Rahul De from IIM-Bangalore, the report has been compiled by studying the experiences of twenty Indian organizations drawn from government departments, commercial firms and educational institutions. “Contrary to popular perception, open source adoption is accelerating in the country. While a majority of the enterprises that we surveyed used open source first because of cost reasons, they have subsequently discovered other compelling benefits. These benefits include scalability and security, with no additional costs,” says Professor De.

While the study mentions some small scale organizations too, it is clear that the bigger the organization is, the bigger are the benefits of going in for an open source model. Professor De cites the example of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), which has saved close to Rs 42 crores by migrating from using proprietary software on its servers and desktop to open source. Today, LIC has migrated all its servers to Linux, and uses Linux on close to 60 percent of its desktop base of over 30,000. National India Assurance (NIA), is another stellar example of a firm, that has migrated about 1500 servers to Linux. The firm also uses Linux in 4,000 desktops, out of a total base of over 7,000 desktops. The estimated cost savings are close to Rs 80 crore. Considering the scale at which large enterprises such as LIC and NIA operate, the move to an open source model can truly generate massive savings. This is also true for state governments. For example, the IT@School project of Kerala replaced Windows software with open source on 50,000 desktops in schools across the state. As a result, tangible benefits amount to Rs 49 crore.

Professor De says that it is largely misperception, and a lack of awareness that have acted as barriers, for adoption of open source. He cites the success of organizations such as LIC and NIA, who have proved beyond doubt, the success of adopting an open source model – even on the desktop. “Enterprises must first look at an open source alternative, before they sign off on a purchase agreement. As a policy recommendation, RFPs must include open source software,” says Professor De.

With a bulk of the savings coming from the initial cost of acquiring the software, supporters of proprietary software say that acquisition costs are not vital, as they amount to only a fraction of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) over a period of say, three years. Proprietary software supporters counter that if enterprises factor in costs related to training and support, the TCO of open source may be more than proprietary software. That said, Rs 10,000 crore is just too big a number to be ignored – especially in these times of austerity
+++++++++

Let's get going..

Jai Ho
Balaji

Power and Administrative Transition: After Election Polls in India

Power and Administrative Transitions: After Election Polls in India

I just want to begin with normal transition of outsources service.. when the client wants to transition the service handled by his team or other vendor to an outsource service player..see how professional they define the scope, what to deliver, who is involved, roles and responsibilities, SLA’s, Services Offering, plan and mentor / train the people involved and also monitor the deliverables for a stipulated duration after outsourcing.

Once the elections are over there is no process or hand holding mechanism for the new Govt to explain, provide updates, transition the knowledge to the newly elected party.

When the New Govt is elected and selected by the people in India.. I observed there is no Power and Administrative transition mechanism in India.

For the newly elected members, its almost a naked situation. They are not briefed about the situation, plans and strategies followed etc.

India should learn from USA where the newly formed Govt is given proper Administrative and Power transition.

Let’s hope that this will happen soon / or in the near future even in India.

Jai Ho..!!

Political Reforms : College for MLA/MP’s – Electoral College of India?

Political Reforms : College for MLA/MP’s – Electoral College of India?

Education and Training:

I feel all our MLA/MP’s should go thru a grueling 6 months to 1 year training on their roles, responsibilities, duties and also they should understand about the society and the position of the country in depth and relevantly.

I will come to you clearly where I am coming from..

We have NDA/Military school for armed forces, we have administrative staff college, we have colleges / training institutes for Bank officers, we have formal training for all the IAS, IPS, IFS, IRS, IES, IFS etc after their selection thru UPSC ( Union Public Service commission ) exams conducted by central govt. And also we have Probation period for each / every position in the Govt and Private sector ? Why not there is no Probation Period for Politicians ? Why not they are also properly educated, trained and mentored by Electoral College of India? I propose Govt. should seriously think of setting up a “Electoral College of India” an autonomous Institution run and managed by finest professionals and legendary personalities from all the fields say Army, Social, Financial, Management, Corporate, Engineering, Medical, Arts, Markets, Defense, Industrial, Service, Hospital sectors etc.. The Objective is to impart update, professional and advanced training to MLA/MP’s so that they are aware of the what’s happening in India, what should they are expected to deliver and also they should know what they be aware of..!!

When we a have a UPSC process for selecting IAS, IPS, IRS etc Govt. servants why not we also have this for Politicians ?

Each and every field should be run by people with basic educational qualifications and also experience. For example to become a defense minister the person should be from Defense. People with defense experience at least General level officer should be elected as defense minister.

A health minister should be at least a doctor – MBBS.. if people with no credential can also become a central health minister? Then its shameful to any country. People can say if the person is good then he can manage any portfolio ? Can any one say if there is a way to find GOOD person / citizen? Its difficult na??

That’s why when there a qualification requirement for every post / position..then there should be Qualification to Politicians also?

This way all the candidates with proper qualification and knowledge will be able to server people of India in a better way.

Let’s hope that this will happen soon / or in the near future.

Jai Ho..!!

Ref 2: Time and Importance for United IT Associates in IT Industry - India

When companies can form a union or forum like NASSCOM then there is need for all IT & ITES professionals to have a representation.

The Forum should work with a charter to bring / build a bridge between companies and employees to safe guard thier interests, protect basic rights and a crucial role to play in the growth of IT Industry in India.

In Future :

One thing is for sure.. If any company thinks they are most ethical, good in corporate governance and investor freindly then there is no reason for them not be employee friendly there by they should also promote IT UNION / IT ASSOCIATE FORUMS in thier companies.

I feel very bad even from employees side... they are only focussed on thier work, pay and growth but they have ignored thier social responsibility..

And in this tough times the only target is them only ( the employees ). Its time all employees wake up and be aware of thier basic rights, roles and responsibilities in the society.

Some Ideas and Direction:

Once all the IT & ITES professionals form an Union / Association they should voluntarly contribute at least 1 % of thier income to growth society or up liftment of other industry. The Union should show case the WORLD same way the Industry developed and show cased to the Global / International community.

First IT Company:

There fore I suggest the FIRST Company that should start work in this direction is INDIA's favorite IT bench mark company INFOSYS ( http://www.infosys.com ). When they can set bench marks in investor returns, corporate governace, ethical, employee friendly, also gives back to society then there is no reason for them not to show case other companies that they can also support IT UNION / IT ASSOCIATES / IT EMPLOYEES FORUM. This will send right signals to other companies too.

Hello Sir : Do you hear me ?

Let Mr. Narayana Murthy guide this forum.. I feel he is the best person to lead this Initiative and take forward.

There is no reason for him to be not kind enough to the IT employees.

Its also sad that in IT Industry PEOPLE ( professionals ) are only assests to companies but companies ignore thier ASSETS during the bad times and also the first target in their cost cutting plans.

What is hurting ?

Most of the IT companies are still making 30 % profit and still have plenty of cash...it is not fair for them to lay off people. Govt should interefer IMMIDIATELY ON SU MOTO CASE that only loss making IT companies should lay off as last measure.

Simple question to all IT companies running under ( STPI ):

When Govt allots land and infra., power on nominal rates, tax exemption benefits to the companies are they not using public / people's assets / property for thier own use ? How can they ignore and send people out ? Are the people or MACHINES ?

Request : All good / common sense and socially responsible professionals should think and contribute to society they are in and to the Industry ..finally to thier own good future.

The below article is one good example of what to expect in the future...

Jai Hind.

========

News item / article published in TIMES OF INDIA dated: 01st May, 2009

----------
Techies say ‘no’ to pink slips
Mini Joseph Tejaswi TNN

Bangalore: The IT/BPO workers’ association, UNITES Professionals India, will run a ‘Stop the pink slip’ signature campaign between May 1 and 31. The organization hopes to collect over a lakh signatures from tech workers in Bangalore, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram and submit it to industry body Nasscom on June 2. The move is aimed at urging employers to explore upbuilding/creative cost-cutting options, rather than layoffs. “A large number of employees today fear losing their jobs. It’s adversely impacting their performances. So it’s very important to create a safe and secure work atmosphere,’’ said Karthik Shekhar, secretary general, UNITES. Multiple channels like online, offline and Second Life will be used to take the month-long campaign across. “Pink-slipping is alien to India. Instead of firing, companies should focus on staff training, skill enhancement or learning of new languages like Chinese, Russian, German, French. They should realise that bench sitters are live intellectual bodies and not perishable commodity. And getting rid of jobs via the new-found, unscientific, biased performance evaluation is unfair,’’ said Shekhar. “It’s impossible to believe that all tax-free revenues racked up by tech/BPO firms over the years have dried up. Many companies are using recession as an excuse to prune jobs and salaries,’’ said Aadil Nagrath, a BPO employee. “Being sacked gave me a crazy feeling of uncertainty. I woke up one morning to realise that I have nowhere to go and no money is going to reach me until I find another job. It has nothing to do with pink, it’s only about being in deep red, black and blue,’’ said Cherill (name changed), a senior technology professional who was laid off by Wipro. In the campaign, each IT/BPO employee will be asked to sign a pink card, addressed to Nasscom chairman Pramod Bhasin, that will say, among other things, that issuance of pink slips should happen only if the sustainability of a company is at risk.

----------

Madam Jayalalitha's comments : on Tamils in SL

Ref: my article : Why Tamilians in Sri Lanka not Considered as Indians ?

If the Indian Govt does not act then one fine day the Tamils will ask for separate country for them from INDIA.

INDIA its time we support our own people rather ignoring them.

See Puratchi Thalaivi Jaya Lalitha's statement today..

http://election.rediff.com/report/2009/apr/30/loksabhapoll-india-army-for-eelam-promises-aiadmk.htm
I'll ask Centre to send Indian army to Lanka to form Eelam: JayaApril 30, 2009 05:17 ISTUpping the ante, All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagam supremo Jayalalithaa said on Wednesday that if a government of her choice was formed at the Centre after Lok Sabha polls, she would take steps to send the Indian army [Images] to Sri Lanka [Images] to form a separate Tamil Eelam in that country. Addressing an election meeting here, she said "naan sollum madhya arasu amayndal, India padaiyai anuppi tani eelam amaikka nadavadikkai eduppen." (If a central government of my choice is formed, I will steps to send our troops to Sri Lanka to form separate Eelam)." Attacking Congress leaders for criticising her that she was not aware of international law, Jayalalithaa asked whetherthey would flay Indira Gandhi [Images] in a similar vein for sending the Indian army to create Bangladesh and Rajiv Gandhi [Images] forsending the IPKF to Sri Lanka in 1987. Jayalalithaa's remarks came days after she made a dramatic shift in her party's position last week and said she wouldstrive for formation of a separate "Tamil Eelam" (homeland for Tamils) in Sri Lanka, saying it alone would solve the decades long ethnic strife in the island nation. The Sri Lankan Tamils issue has come to occupy centrestage in the run-up to Lok Sabha polls in Tamil Nadu
-------

What ever action ..some times ...bit crazy or very courageous steps only powerful people can think and execute. She definitely belongs to that category.

Remember in first time in history ( In India / WW ) she removed state gov employees ( around 6 laks ..that's what I remember) in one shot !!

A PM for any country needs that kind of guts. I always feel if there is any remote chance in future she is a better candidate for INDIA as PM.

Debate wide open..
-------
Indian.

SC quashes plea, Nimesh Kampani likely to be arrested: My thoughts...

All,

I feel the Independent Directors should have Ombudsman system for all the issues related Independent Directors - Corporate issues.

If such a RICH and well connected, Established man only can't escape.. think of Poor Independent Directors.

I would like all to formally send an request to Govt & MCA to work towards this Ombudsman System for Independent Directors ( ID) and Directors.

This is perhaps right time to set the Stage for the good Frame work and Governing body for ID's.

Lastly we need to put this request Sri. Madhav Mehra to consider and actively Pursue at his level.

Many Thanks for your time and response

Balaji K
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SC quashes plea, Nimesh Kampani likely to be arrested:

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/sc-quashes-plea-nimesh-kampani-likely-to-be-arrested/90152-7.html
New Delhi: Dalal Street whiz Nimesh Kampani is facing arrest after the Supreme Court on Monday refused to stop criminal proceedings against him in the Nagarjuna Finance scam case.
The bench headed by Justice Altamas Kabir, however, allowed Kampani to seek anticipatory bail.
The Mumbai-based investment banker and other executives of the Hyderabad-based non-banking financial company are under investigation for the firm's alleged failure to return around Rs 98.3 crore collected from 85,160 depositors in 1997-98.
They are wanted by the Andhra Pradesh Police in the Nagarjuna Finance scam case.
Kampani was an independent director of the company from 1989 to 1999. Kampani was reportedly hiding in Dubai for a while and moved the Supreme Court in March.
Kampani's personal wealth is valued at $1.3 billion according to
Forbes Magazine. According to same magazine, he is the 42nd richest Indian and 897th richest man in the world.
+++++++++++++++++

Post Election : How to check out MLA/MP's with fake credentials

One of the way to check out MLA/MP's after the elections is file a PIL to investigate all the MLA/MP's affidavit submitted during the elections and find thier original income...

An autonomous investigative body should be set up and should allow this Organization to conduct investigation.. those MLA/MP's assets are not as per orginal income should be debarred from the Elections for the next 10 years.

As per the declarations most of them disclosed their income improper to thier Atual income or Assets.

People should use RTI act and PIL ( Public Interest Litigations ) to knock out all the bad elements in the Assembly and Parliament.

Let us build right, honest and powerful india for the right people in the right direction.

Jai ho..

PRP - Chiru needs to Justify to AP People and to his FANS before he asks for Support and Chance

With this flash news.. I felt so sad and decided to think and analyze what's happening and probably advise what PRP needs to do quickly.

This is not what is expected from PRP. Chiru needs to justify and revisit once again before he asks for FANS and People's support.

Chiru Its time you keep ALLU ARAVIND Away from the decision making process..Other wise people will never trust any CINEMA Actor coming into Politics !! Hope it reaches CHIRU Loudly.

ACT FAST IS THE MEDICINE for this toxic culture.

Ref: http://election.rediff.com/report/2009/apr/09/loksabhapoll-top-prp-leader-quits-calls-party-a-poisonous-tree.htm

Top PRP leader quits, calls Chiranjeevi's party a 'poisonous tree'

April 09, 2009 15:07 IST
In a major setback to actor-turned-politician Chiranjeevi's party Praja Rajyam, party general secretary Prakala Prabhakar on Thursday resigned from the party and lashed out at its top leadership over the selection of candidates and style of functioning.
Prabhakar, a former Bharatiya Janata Party leader, was one of the first leaders to join the megastar's party. His resignation came after days of speculations that Prabhakar, the only Brahmin leader of the party, had decided to quit after he was denied a party ticket. He was also reportedly upset about the PRP leadership denying tickets to several candidates recommended by him, amid allegations that Chiranjeevi's brother in law Allu Arvind had sold the tickets for crores of rupees.
Prabhakar is among several top leaders of the party who have resigned in the last few days. Former state intelligence chief and retired Indian Police Service officer C Anjaneya Reddy, who was the founder vice president of the party, has also resigned. Speculations are rife that P Mitra, party general secretary and Chiranjeevi's advisor, is also planning to quit.
After the media started playing up the news of Prabhakar's resignation, a shaken Allu Arvind rushed to his residence to placate him. But Prabhakar refused to meet Arvind.
"PRP has turned into a poisonous tree and I have don't have the strength to uproot this tree. This tree is poisoning the state politics," the disgruntled leaders told reporters.
In a stinging attack on Chiranjeevi and the coterie around him, Prakala Prabhakar said that PRP had become a business house and he can not be part of the 'PRP company'.
"I have not taken this decision out of anger or rage but with a lot of pain and agony. There are inherent flaws in the party and no body can correct it," he added.
Continuing his attack, Prabhakar claimed that he failed to understand why the "PRP had been launched."
"The promise of change the party had made remains unfulfilled. The objective of the party seems to be completely different,"
Lashing out at Prabhakar, PRP's official spokesperson P Upendra said that he had quit the party because he had been denied a ticket. "We regret his resignation because he was a senior leader in the party. But we don't think it will weaken the party," he stated.
---------------

Ref : Time and Importance for United IT Associates in IT Industry - India

Here is an article in Economictimes.com news parer published dated on 8th Apr,09.

It has proved that IT Associates forming a Union to protect themselves from exploitation by companies in various forms will prove to be very successful..

---------

IT workers’ union wants EC to freeze Satyam sale
Our Bureau HYDERABAD
A UNION of information technology workers, Unites, has asked India’s Election Commission to intervene and shelve Satyam’s sale process until a new government takes over and current investigations by the CBI reaches a conclusion. The union has cited the scandal-hit company’s legal liabilities and other ambiguities as deterrents for any potential bidder to carry an effective due diligence functions. The government-appointed board is expected to announce a new Satyam owner by this month. Unites has also alleged that the authorities are in a ‘hurry’ to sell Satyam. “We feel the EC has every right to examine the whole move to get competitive bidding to buy Satyam’s 51% share, as the whole liability running into billions of dollars will eventually fall on the taxpayers of India,” Karthik Shekhar, Unite’s general secretary said in his letter to N Gopalaswami, the chief election commissioner of India. Over 2,000 Satyam employees have registered with Unites India ever since the Satyam scandal was reported few months ago. “On the liability front at least 13 class action lawsuits are already in US Courts, and the liability could easily exceed $900 million,” Unite said in its letter to Mr Gopalaswami, a copy of which was shown to ET on Tuesday. Satyam’s fixed assets are valued by the government appointed board at around Rs 1,800 crore.

-----------------

Ombudsman Mechanism for Company Independent Directors ( ID's)

With the recent Satyam scandal..the role of Independent Directors ( ID ) and thier value addition to Company and also justification of thier existance to protect the retail / minority stake holder interests.. are not so clear. The following are my thoughts what the Corporate World and also Min. of Company Affairs should start think and work with SEBI also to put a better frame work on the ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES of the Independent Directors.

1. Govt should restrict the Max number of Boards / Companys Independent Director Can represent to around 4-5 only instead 12.
2. They should also modify the existing Corporate laws to increase the Min. No of days and also Min no of hours the ID on Single Board to 1000 hours or 3 months ( 90 to 100 working days). If the ID is not able to spend reasonable efforts in the company then HE does not add value to the company and also to the minority share holders. It is better not to have the ID in the board.
3. Govt of India should create law to introduce the Ombudsman mechanism to resolve any Issues related to the ID's and thier Corporate Goverence responsibilities. So any share holder / stock holder to approach the Ombudsman and get proper support and help or information from them. Perhaps its time to create "India Corporate Directors Federation". An apex body to guide the directors.
4. Also Govt should enact strong company laws to penalize the ID/Directors for thier faults, voilations and thier failures. probably debaring them 5 years to sit on any board in India.
5. Govt should not decide the Independent Directors payement based on the number of sittings.. but perhaps based on the MEASURABLE Value he brings in to the company, No of hours and No of days he was involved in the Company operations.
6. Govt also should consider minimum qualifications for the ID's and also should provide exceptions based on their track record and credentials.
7. I feel Govt. should Propose a Management Audit Review on the ID's decision making and thier response etc in the Company Annual reports.

I think these things will happen over a period of time..

Let's help in shaping the better corporate world.

India needs..

Jai Ho

Journalist throws shoe at Chidambaram.. Who is Next ?

Ref : http://ibnlive.in.com/news/journalist-throws-shoe-at-chidambaram/89666-3.html

• Soon I predict this will become a habit / symbol to show frustration, to give fitting reply to those whose actions are irresponsible, meaning less, exploted weakness of people / employees / markets / cast / creed etc...
• Worse could come from employees who are fired / layed off in the IT industry.. People will throw Shoe at thier managers, business heads, HR manager, country heads, Directors, Boar members and CEO's etc.

Comments..?

Swiss black money can take India to the top -IIM professor R Vaidyanathan

• I am providing a link..where the Indian's Swiss money demand is coming strongly from the IIM professor R Vaidyanathan. http://election.rediff.com/interview/2009/mar/31/inter-swiss-black-money-can-take-india-to-the-top.htm

The Rediff Interview/IIM professor R Vaidyanathan'Swiss black money can take India to the top'March 31, 2009.

Indian money stashed in the Swiss Bank has become a focal point of debate, especially after the Leader of Opposition and the Bharatiya Janata Party's prime ministerial candidate L K Advani raised the issue on Sunday. If elected, the BJP has vowed to bring the black money back home. Though the Congress dismissed the idea, the Swiss bank issue is slowly becoming a hot election issue.

• 
  In fact the BJP also plans to carry out a mock election across the country on April 6 where people will have to cast their vote indicating whether Indian money in Swiss banks should be brought back to India or not.
  
• During his address, Advani said the BJP will form a task force comprising experts to prepare a strategic document for India to recommend ways to get back the national wealth stashed away illegally by corrupt politicians, businessmen and criminal overlords.
  
• One of the names he mentioned in the task force is Professor R Vaidyanathan, Professor of Finance at the Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru [Images].
  In this exclusive interview to rediff.com's Vicky Nanjappa, Vaidyanathan explains in detail the importance of bringing back the ill-gotten wealth and how the money got there in the first place.
  
• Firstly how much Indian money do you think is stashed away in the Swiss Banks?
  In 2006, the most recent Global Financial Integrity study, developing countries lost an estimated $858.6 billion (about Rs 43 lakh crore) to $1.06 trillion (abot Rs 51 lakh crore) in illicit financial outflows. Even at the lower end of the range of estimates, the volume of illicit financial flows coming out of developing countries increased at a compound rate of 18.2 percent over the five-year period analysed for the study. On average, for the five-year period of this study, Asia accounts for approximately 50 percent of overall illicit financial flows from all developing countries.
  
• This report shows that the average amount stashed away from India annually during 2002-06 is $27.3 billion (about 136,466 crore). It means that during the five-year period the amount stashed away is 27.3x5=136.5 billion (about 692,328 crore). It is not that all these amounts went to Swiss banks. It has gone to different tax and secret shelters. The share of Swiss banks in dirty money being a third of the global aggregate, some $45 billion out of the 136.5 billion stashed away from India would have been hoarded in these years in Swiss banks.
  
• The important point is that this is only for five years. More amounts were stashed away during the Nehruvian regime. So the loot for 55 years will be several times higher. In fact, in those days the rupee commanded a better value per dollar. So fewer rupee could get more dollars. So the estimation that the Indian money stashed away may be of the order of $1.4 trillion (about Rs 71 lakh crore).
  
• On what basis have you come to this conclusion?
  There is a lot of literature available as to how to estimate the illicit financial flow from developing countries. We find out what the nature of the flow is. I have also relied upon the study Illicit Financial Flows from Developing Countries: 2002-2006 Global Finanacial Intergrity authored by Dev Kar and Devon-Cartwright Smith, a project of the Ford [Images] Foundation. Financial flows in the context of this report includes the proceeds from both illicit activities such as corruption (bribery and embezzlement of national wealth), criminal activity, and the proceeds of ilicit business that become illicit when transported across borders in contravention of applicable laws and regulatory frameworks (most commonly in order to evade taxes).
• 
  Which are the various tax havens, where the ill-gotten wealth of Indian businessmen and politicians are stashed?
  There are presumably more than 70 tax havens in the world. Indian wealth could be more in Switzerland [Images] and various British /US islands. At least 40 countries market themselves aggressively as tax havens [Source: Internal Revenue Service USA on Abusive Off-shore Tax Avoidance schemes �Talking Points Jan 2008]. The well-known tax havens are Switzerland/ Liechtenstein/Luxemburg/ Channel Islands etc.
• 
  Could you elaborate and tell us how the money got there in the first place?
  There are several methods/reasons. Under invoicing/over invoicing of exports and imports and getting the balance stored abroad. Kickbacks from major defense/civilian contracts. Not bringing the earnings abroad. In the old days smuggling of gold and illegal money. Transactions done abroad and not reported here. Hawala funds. Funds earned by artists/ entertainment industry /sports people and stashed abroad. When you want to indulge in adharma, hundreds of ways are open!
  
• We would like to know the terror connection. Do you think even terrorists are stashing away cash and using the tax haven route to send across money all over the world, to finance their activities?
  M K Narayanan, our National Security Advisor, has spoken about it in Berlin recently.
  Advani says that it is important to bring this money back. How can the government go about it and what are the various ways in which India can get its money back?
  Put it on the Global Agenda. Put it in G-20. Put it in the International Monetary Fund. Put it in Egmont Group. Also take a lead among all developing countries. Support US /German/French efforts.
  
• If India decides to take the initiative, will the Swiss authorities cooperate?
  It is not due to our pressure but that of US which will make them co-operate. When a family is in deep financial crisis then it tries to look at the small amount saved under the sugar jar by grandma. Same way developed economies are desperate for every dollar. Even if we do not act due to their efforts the list of crooks may be out, then we will be in a dangerous social situation since the who's who of India will be there. Instead we should get it and get the funds and decide on the steps to sterilise it. Otherwise, the world will laugh at us.
  
• Politicians sure must be having a lot of money in Swiss Banks. Do you think this factor will deter the government from acting?
  Public pressure will make them do it. Plus, the evolving global situation against tax havens. The money belongs to the poor farmers and unorganised workers of India. Also, Indian businessmen have a lot of their ill-gotten gains in these banks. The world situation is such that Indian businessman will want to bring it back now given the attractive returns in India.
  
• Do you think that the Indian government should demand all the Indian black money in Swiss banks?
  Of course. India should and must act. We are not a banana republic.
  You wrote in your column that the German foreign intelligence agency BND got names of 1,400 clients of the Liechtenstein-based LTG bank who were supposed to be suspected tax evaders. Of the 1,400, 600 were supposed to be Germans.
• Do you think of the remaining there will be Indians as well? Has the Indian government approached the German government for the list?
  Indian names will be there. Our tax evaders and crooks are like the omnipresent Maha Vishnu [Images] -- present in all continents and all tax havens. But our government has been lukewarm in this issue. It should have despatched immediately senior officials to get the names.
  
• Isn't it important to tackle the issue of domestic black money?
  It is definitely important. At least the domestic black money is used in our economy and to that extent it is productive. But the money kept in Swiss banks is neither useful to India nor does it benefit Indians.
  
• What role should the media play?
  The media has a very important role to play. At the moment it seems like most part of the media is more interested in the diet of an actress. Pressure by the media needs to be built up on this issue and remember that a lot of Indians don't just go to Switzerland to ski.
  
• What about the names of these persons?
  India must try and get the names. But more importantly should get the money back. It should be top on the agenda and India ought to take a moral lead in this issue.
  
• Will the Indian economy improve if the money is brought back?
  It will do phenomenally. India will be in the top five league if all the ill-gotten money is brought back. It will change the Indian scenario and I have been saying this since 1993.
  
• Do you think that these people will now try and pull out the money since this issue has become a hot topic?
  I don't think so. If they do then India should create an instrument and regulate frameworks to bring the money back.
  
• What kind of punishment do you suggest for these persons?
  Punishment is not the issue now. There is a need to create fear in them and follow what the international community does on this issue.
  
• Lastly do you think this is becoming just another election issue?

The US and Germany [Images] took the lead and there is no election there. We should not treat this as an election issue. We have to take up this matter and if we don't then we will become a laughing stock of the entire world.

I am glad that it is going to gain strength step by step, inch by inch, students to youth, elders, senior citizens, unions, Professors, Teachers, Professors, Colleges, Universities to ...going forward...Irrespective of many unseen obsticles...I strongly believe that together we can achieve this GOAL.!!

It can not with stand before the WILL POWER OF THE PEOPLE..People should take this as one time life time opportunity to get back thier money and use it for people's development.. like eradicating poverty, 100 % literacy, increase the life standards for all the 120 billion people.. build houses for all the people.. No one should suffer because of food, shelter, cloth !!

This is also a chance for the YOUTH to demand, pressurise, fight untill the govt ( be it any party in the power ) to get all those money from the SWISS Bank belongs to INDIANS.

IT'S OUR BIRTH RIGHT TO DEMAND !! LET'S START FIGHTING to help the next generation of our kids to live better !!

Jai ho India..

Balaji..

LK Advani's demand on Swiss Bank money

Now I see the strong demand from Sri. LK ADVANI on this topic published in the eenadu news paper..

I feel soon it will be become Indian citizens right to demand and the Swiss Govt. and its Banks should accept this demand.. I hope all these to happen soon.

Cheers,

Balaji

My Vision for India to change its destiny in the next 5 – 10 years.

My thoughts / Vision for India to change its destiny in the next 5 – 10 years.

The following are my thoughts.. I strongly believe these programs / Ideas will have the power to change the people’s life and provide meaning full respect to the Indians world wide. In these difficult time we need to justify the freedom we got from our beloved freedom fighters, their scarifications worth more than what we are thinking and also what we achieved the last 50 to 60 years. We need to change ourselves to give life and opportunities and respect to the next generations.

1. Create an “India Future Fund” worth 5 billion dollars / 50 K Crore rupees. This fund actively looks the markets in US, Europe Technology / Manufacture / Pharma Engineering / Banking Companies and acquire the companies technologies, know how, patens in this low valuation time. Develop / Enhance / Localize these technologies and deploy it across India’s requirements in Govt Office, Institutes, R & D Labs, Educational Institutes and make it available to People to use freely. For example acquire a network company ( just a case : Nortel ) and use their technologies and products to use widely at less cost across the country infrastructure. Take over a company that is capable of developing or having printers as their products and use these printers across the govt offices and also make it available to the people at less price. Fund / partner a company that can develop a GIS software to map India’s infrastructure and stream line the Land and revenue, roads etc available to citizens in the digital format. Use these software’s to reform the land, revenue offices INDIA Wide. So Think anything that can reduce India’s dependency on other country’s products. Provide tax holiday for companies that develops Products and also provides it as free to Govt with nominal cost.
2. 
   Create an Organization that trains all the fresh engineering graduates a mandatory training of 6 months. All the senior IT professional as part of the India Contribution Program.. they will train all the technologies and provide guidance /mentor using their experience. Govt and also IT Players who are under STPI and obtaining Income tax benefit should also contribute to train these work force. Industry contribution would be in providing the technologies support, sharing their technologies license and experienced staff under this program. As per NASSCOM reports every year 6 Lakh students engineering students come out from college and only 20 % are ONLY able to get / fit for the Industry requirement. This leaves the other 4.8 lakh students to add additional competencies / skills to be ready for Industry. The current IT companies mentality is to hire only experienced and bright students only. This leaves the candidates no option to get real experience and forces to put fake experience to get jobs in the IT companies. And companies fires / terminates this work force stating their fudged / doctored application and experience details. So for there is not even ONE company that tries understand and help students to get experience. I propose this Organization to train this huge work force 6-12 months training program free of cost India wide. Set up and “INDIA GOVT IT Learning Center” and train this work force. The faculty will be the senior IT employees from various IT companies as a part of their India Contribution Program. These faculties get less Income Tax on their salaries and also provides a “Preferred India Citizen” status. Use these program software for people’s needs and help to improve their lifes.
3. 
   India should demand the SWISS Banks to reveal the Indian Citizens accounts and announce these illegal money to become national assets. These funds to be attached to “India Future Fund” fund dedicatedly used for only people growth, support activities. All the illegal money / Assets disproportionate to their profile / job / wealth to attached to this fund. A Special court that resolves all these cases in a 24*7 Financial Fraud Courts to be set up all over the main mandal/ towns/district/ cities/capitals and available thru online and also to the toll free numbers.
   
4. Set up “India IT Task Force” Program and make it available to the people via web / online / offline / toll free numbers to provide suggestions, contributions. This committee uses the available Open Source Software’s and decides what applications can be used to enhance, improve, develop better and deploy across the Govt offices. This Programs intends to reduce India Govt IT budget and use the existing technologies and also develop their required softwares Internally than buying it from MNC’s and other country companies.
   
5. Set up “India help line” that is available to all the people via Internet ( www.Indiahelpline.gov.in )/ Toll free number manned by support teams 24 * 7 round the clock. The objective of this Program “India Help Line” to respond to peoples complaints and emergency needs.
   
6. Set up and maintain a Govt Owned Internet Center in every village with broad band facilities to provide information to citizens on all the India Govt Programs, Rules regulations, Contact details, programs goals, RTI act details, contact persons, Govt officials contact details, Offices, Roles and responsibilities etc. The objective of the program to provide awareness programs and also help people to understand Govt initiatives.
   
7. Develop a program that utilizes all the senior citizens, retired govt / public / private service persons availability and utilize their experience knowledge to be available to people’s benefit. Any person involved in this program should be exempted from any income tax. All these citizens to be provided free travel in any bus / trains across the country for their contributions. For example all the retired judges can be part of “India Help Line “ or “India Financials Fraud Court” judges.
   
8. Develop low cost PC/Computers, Develop Education programs to Eradicate Illiteracy and make it 100 % literary people. Also these can be used to promote / improve / enhance / provide suggestions to Govt programs.
   
9. Develop and Distribute a Single Card – Multi Purpose Identity Card to all the Indian Citizens to provide benefits, track their progress and direct and take necessary measures. For example this card should be used in the India’s fair price shop / Public distribution system to take track their transactions etc.
   
10. Set up “India people Social Security System” similar to the USA / America’s Social Security System to provide similar benefits to people.
    
11. Identify all the un used Govt lands and provide it to the poor families to make use of this land for their lively hood. The Govt provides water facility to these un irrigated lands thru borewells, check dams, canals, tanks etc. 10 % of what ever they produce.. they will donate to govt to support Govt various initiatives. Incase of any droughts this donations are exempted.
    
12. Provide All Indians an Bank Account, ATM card to reach the Govt initiates and transactions that needs to reach their people. OneIndiaBankAccount initiative.
    
13. Announce any Illegal Property / Assets disproportionate their their known wealth as – Financial Terrorism. The new act will punish the people severely as it harms their co Indian life / standards / growth / lively hood.
    
14. Transform the exiting post offices to Multi Purpose People Support service Centers. One of the similar example – Bangaloreone support centers.
    
15. Declare Nursery to PG education free for all.
    
16. Set up “India Physicall Challeged People Support” Programs and resolve their issues within 30 working days. This program is supported by an 365*24 hours helpdesk system thru a tollfree number or thru online system. The complaint is refereed by an Unique number.Any of their complaint… If their complaint is not resolved with in 30 days this should be automatically escalated to District collector and if it is not resolved in another 15 days then it should be escalated to Chief minister.
    
17. All Political Parties should Publish their Election manifesto to the people and provide opportunity to modify/include new demands/priorities/programs. All parties should declare their leader before elections. “India Call Back right” should be provided to People if the majority of the people does not like the Govt or If the elected Political party is unable to perform as per their Manifesto.
    
18. Set up “Indian Rivers Integration program”. Integrate all the Rivers in the country within 5 to 10 years period. Mandate the people who are not employed are given job in this program. Use the vast human resource in this National Program to provide benefits to them.. I will discuss this topic in a separate topic.. when I get more time ..!!
    
19. Integrate all the Govt Banks and make it as OneIndia bank with out any employee reductions. Idea is reduce the duplicate work, expense and bring standards to compete with Global banks. We need to think Bigger AND Act Much Bigger!!
    
20. Mandate Voting is must and failure to vote leads severe punishment. Let’s change the fate of Political Leaders before they change us!!
    
    These ideas are purely my ideas.. Also its my contributions to my country. I also propose these ideas to the Praja Rajyam Party ( PRP ) led by Cheeranjeevi to consider and include these ideas in their manifesto as possible. Its my gift to his party.
    
    I strongly believe a lot signals are in his favour..the wind, people is in favour of Chiru.
    
    I wish him all the best.
    
    Jai ho..
    Balaji

National Rivers Integration Project - India future Agricultural Super Power?

• National Rivers Integration Project - India Agricultural Super Power !!
  
  I would like to thanks Shri Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee the former PM of India and Mentor, statesman and most respected leader in India and BJP Party for the Quadri lateral Traingle Project that was extended to connect all the National High ways throughout India. We must salute his vision to improve the roads, infrastructure in India to become more competitive, provide better life to people, jobs, better life to Vehicles ( yes yes.. because of the smooth roads.) and to become catalyst of the India’s continous GDP growth for the last 5 years or so. Not many people recognized this importance including the current UPA Govt.
  
  Another MEGA Project is è Which is every Indian’s dream is integrating all the RIVERS in India from South India to North India and East India to West India and also Central India. This Project alone would provide millions of jobs, billions of people to become richer, billions of people to have food 3 times a day. Empower and Bring the Indian Farmer to Global level and watch how the Indian farmer can become very strong man and respected for this scale, volume. The most popular Rivers Ganga, Mahanadi, Sindu, Kaveri, Krishna, Godavari, Thunga Budra, Satlej and many more rivers crossing south to north and east to west and central part of India will enable GREEN INDIA.
  
  I strongly suggest the NEXT Govt who ever comes to take up this All Indian’s Dream Project and finish it in the next TEN YEARS. If it ( the Project ) realizes then We will not see any more deaths – just because of no food, for food starving, corruption, factionism, food starving, Time wasting mentality etc.
  
  Oh God.. Pls. provide this power to people of India and Political Parties to get involve in this Maha Yagnam soon !!
  
  Jai Ho India..
  Balaji.
  
  
  
  

Why Govt is not supporting the Travel Agents Association on - Agents ticket commission.?

I have been watching this Air line industry for a while.. where the travel agents charge upto 5 % as commission on the air tickets. But some of the other country air lines like Singapore Airlines and also one more Air line not agreeing to pay the agent commission on the tickets they sold.
As per the industry.. the agents who set up the shops every corner of the cities are selling more than 80 to 85 % of the total air tickets sold. Can the Air lines afford to ignore thier importance ? Can they set up the shops and attract and manage the customers like agents ..? Can they sustain these set up costs ?

When the agent commission is common in all the countries all over the world why not Govt not helping this un organized sector providing thousands and laks of jobs directly or indirectly ? Time Govt support these agents and get the Air lines to follow the track..!!

Some more facts.. when time permitts..

Balaji

Why Tamilians in Sri Lanka not Considered as Indians ?

I am surprised that Indian Govt never thinks the Tamilians in Sri lanka are Indians. It is very appears to me that they think the Tamil people in SL are only Tamilians not as Indians. If they think they are also Indian's then thier relationship with SL would be in a different plane..!! People can question always these are people who killed our ex Prime minister Rajeev Gandhi. But its the Indian Govt who killed its own Tamil people during IPKLF - operation in SL.

Its fact and no body can change that fact. !!

But People also needs to remember that the Father of the Nation - Mahathma Gandhi was killed by Nathuram Godse - belongs to ( Maharastra -North India). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nathuram_Godse

Can we afford to Ignore all our own people in North India. feeling they are not Indians?? When Govt does not help in solving the problems of its own people..people get diverted by the few extremist elements. It is responsibility of the Govt to balance and take care all its own people.

I would like to know what others think about it.

Jai Ho India.
Balaji...
Indian first then Andhraite later.

PM Candidate Name before the Elections - INDIA Political and EC Next reforms.

• PM Candidate Name before the Elections - INDIA Political and EC Next reforms.
  
  I am very much ashamed to see political parties statements without announcing the part’s PM candidate. Why should people vote, support, elect leaders when they don’t know who would be the PM candidate ?
  
  The Election Commission (EC)should mandate that the National Partys should their PM candidate before the elections. If the People does not who would be the PM then is not cheating them ?
  
  The EC should BAN any Political Party if they fail to deliver their PARTY MANIFASTO released during the elections. I feel it is similar like giving a contract to build a fly over, roads, buildings to the companies / contractors and penalize them if they don’t deliver what they agreed for?
  
  The EC should not entertain any MLA/MP candidate or those who are contesting the elections with CRIMAL / CIVIL cases against them. Why not people of India do not deserve / expect clean representative/Leaders? If the EC fails to do then they do not have the right to EXIST. To give more simplistic view when Govt recruits Officers they are doing all the back ground checks? Why not it is not applicable to our SO called POLITICIANS ?
  
  When Educational Qualification is mandatory for all most all the GOVT. giris / posts why not it is applicable to MLA/MP/CM/PM/President’s ? Let’s think and DEMAND. Its our birth right.!!
  
  EC should not allow a candidate contesting not more than ONE CONSTITUTION. Is it fair to contest from more than one Location/Constitution?
  
  EC should also give fair chance when responding to New Political Party’s Election Symbol. It is still following the age old policy of meeting the minimum % percentage of votes a party should get before it seeks the Symbol. They should also accept if the Party provides evidence that they have enough support from the people then EC should review and accept their demand. At this point of time.. I am taking the Chiru’s Praja Rajyam Party (PRP) demand. PRP should collect signatures from the people say 10 % of total population or 10 % votes polled in the last elections in the State. A good measure to follow.
  
  Finally the CEC and also EC should not be appointed by the Political Party.. These positions should be filled on the basis of Merit, capabilities and Impeccable track record of the Candidate during his service.
  
  Finally.. all the people should cast their votes.
  
  It is People right to demand the Voter Card and Cast during the elections.
  
  Jai Ho India.
  Jai Janma Bhumi. ( Jai mother land )

IBM and SUN deal better for IBM's future

The possible merger of IBM (IBM) and Sun Microsystems (JAVA) comes at a critical time for the tech industry. A major shift in the way companies and consumers handle a vast array of computing tasks is at hand. With Sun's Internet technologies in its arsenal, IBM would be better poised to deal with the change.
Sun would give IBM a large portfolio of computer, chip, and software technologies and some of the most innovative scientists and engineers in the tech world. It would also strengthen IBM's hand in key markets, including government and telecommunications.
Perhaps the most important element of the deal lies in Sun's potential for cloud computing. This emerging technology lets people and businesses buy processing power as a service, over the Internet, rather than having to purchase, own, and manage their own expensive machines. Cloud computing consumers pay monthly fees for services provided by companies that specialize in operating computers super-efficiently in vast data centers. "Cloud computing is a different way of consuming and delivering computing," says Erich Clementi, general manager of enterprise initiatives at IBM, who spoke to BusinessWeek two weeks before news of the Sun negotiations was made public. "It has the potential to transform nearly everything we do."
Sun might help IBM better go after that market, analysts say. IBM has for decades been the leading provider of tech products and services for large corporate data centers. For corporate customers, IBM currently builds cloud-based data centers or provides computing services from its own data centers. A Sun acquisition would give IBM a better entry into another segment of the nascent market: providing technology to the companies that operate cloud data centers for large consumer-oriented Web services such as Facebook and Google's (GOOG) YouTube.

With its array of Internet technologies, including the Java software programming language, Sun has long been a favorite among Web startup companies. That affinity would clearly have some value for IBM.

In these days of trillions and billions in bail-outs and welfare, it looks like someone is willing to bail Sun out with $7 billion. I am just perplexed to see that entity is IBM, not Obama.
The only explanation seems to be that IBM wants to block Cisco and also HP.

If IBM can pull in Sun for 7B, it will be a great deal. 7 billion less the 3.1b in cash that Sun has on its books would mean a net of 3.9b for 12b in sales with an average margin of 47% = 5.64b of gross profit.Most of Sun expenses are R&D, 2.1B, and Opex 27%. Sun is already planning massive layoffs to get this more in line with industry average of 15-18%. I think IBM will be even more aggressive given that they already have sales, service, and marketing organization. There is nearly 100% duplicate organization structure bewteen IBM and Sun.
This rumored acquisition is a financial victory for IBM. They get strong product family with an enterprise operating system and solidify their position in many traditional markets (mainframes, Financial services accounts) while expanding their coverage in near ones (HPC, Education, etc).
IBM would be taking a risk by purchasing Sun…with no assurances that Sun's cloud offerings will take off. Still, its chances of being a major player in the era of cloud computing would be enhanced by the merger. And IBM, with a $13 billion cash hoard, can afford to pay the price.

All in all HP is lagging always in introducing new technologies, catching the trends (Cloud computing), not able to get rid off the legacy products, not able to identify and develop new business applications/solutions that will cater to WW Markets. Looks like only focused on acquiring companies and integrate the products. Many of them are overlapping thier existing products..!!Perhaps instead of Inventions they should say Technology Services as their caption or something better.

Why Not Age Bar to Politicians ?

Why Not Age Bar to Politicians ?

When there is age limit or age bar to all the Govt. positions, Public / Private industry jobs why not for politicians? As they are also Public servants they also should have this age limit ? People should put a PIL ( Public Interest Litigation ) to restrict Politicians.

What are the qualifications set for the Politicians?

1. If anybody wants to become a Politican..then they should also have minimum educational qualifications. Minimum a graduation with first class.
2. There should not be any criminal cases or back ground against the candidates
3. They can not make money / have investments in any company
4. They have to follow national service code that limits an individual income to max 1 crore rupees.
   

National Service Day - For Indians – (Manasa Vacha Karmena)

National Service Day - For Indians – (Manasa Vacha Karmena)

I urge all my friends, brothers, sisters, Political parties, citizens of my country to think – (Manasa Vacha Karmena ) to avoid celebrating the national holidays like Children’s day, Women’s day, Valentines Day, Teachers Day, Festivals etc except Nations Independence Day / Republic Day.

All these kinds of celebrations are of national waste/loss in terms of time, energy, focus, unnecessary money spent. The idea is not to insult existing system / way of thinking / way of celebrating / what the nation is getting back /out comes. I have been follower the current way of celebrations / or simply spending it as another holiday. Extra ordinary time requires Extra ordinary thoughts / solutions/ ideas.

We need to protect our country in these tough times..!! Think of 1.2 billion people wasting of minimum of 8 working hours in those days..Are we not reducing our contributions to Nation’s GDP ( Gross Domestic Product? Are we not making our country less competitive ? Are we helping our people to save their jobs. Are we giving back to what country has given to US? When we are giving back something to our parents why not to our country ? Let’s not fight with our fellow citizens. Lets avoid conflicts between the states / among the states. Let’s not hear what the politicians say.

Let’s think and commit our selves to improve the country. It could be in any form – helping poor students and spending time with students teaching and enhance their understanding, serving in any of Govt offices / Pvt. Office / Any public services, helping the physically challenged people / students, planting trees, teaching and providing awareness to literacy what ever one can think.. Provide and participate in RTI act and its benefits, build houses, offices, roads, work another shift and donate that day income, working as part time and donating that income to National Service Day Fund.

I propose a “National Service Day” for India. That is the day all the citizens of my country will contribute what ever way they can to Nation. That gives immense proud and to feel as true Indian. Let’s show that an Indian is equal to any citizen in the world. It’s a first step to Develop our nation..build our nation step by step.

As From day onwards.. Anna NTR sakshiga..!! I am committed to contribute 100 % my efforts on this SPECIAL DAY to my Nation.

As a creator of this Idea I will explain, provide awareness and spread this Idea to all my friends, colleagues, brothers, sisters, seniors, juniors, industry friends and in one word to my country citizens.

My best wishes to all my country people.

Jai Ho Bharat !!
Jai Ho India !!

Balaji
Indian.

Next ruling Party in Andhra Pradesh

As per the trends, silent change revolution and sensing the people pulse and thier aspirations..there is strong possibility that The Praja Rajyam Party to win majority of the seats in Assembly and Parliament elections - Apr/May 09.
The Congress Govt initailly did a extremely good job...but at the end people started seeing Corruption, No transparency, Groupism, Telangana sentiment and issues. Voilation of many rules, Inflation, raise in the prices - all categories.

Telugu Desam - Looks like it is sinking ship. Naidu is doing all he can do.. People are not going to trust any more.. that's why Balaiah Babai, Junior NTR, Hari Krishna every body is joined Babu to get into Power. They are no more NTR's followers..Why are they saying that they want to save his dad's Party - Anna gari party - TDP when they didn't support NTR during his last CM's days..People are not going to trust the current drama any way.

Though I am a life time Fan of Anna Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao - NTR ... I am sad to see what is happening to his party - TDP ( Telugu Desam Party ).

Praja Rajyam Party : Many positive signals to this party..people want change. They are fed up with Congress, TDP. Time for Change. Its time for the next generation of people to come to power with Clean Image and thoughts. The Ajanda / Manifesto of this Party is open to People.. Its wishes and min committments to people's development. Transparency in their thoughts.. Though they are very Young and lot to learn ... there is no rule that a Party needs to have lot experience before it comes to Power.

Anna gare oka Aadharsam. Inspiration!!

Many more thoughts to add when time permitts..

Anna NTR gari Abhimani...

Next World Cup Cricket Champions & Steps to take care

I feel the way Indian cricket team demonstrating the skills, capabilities, aggression, discipline and attacking skills, match winning capabilities, No dependence on any Single Player… Conquering world the every step.. step by step, breaking the records its all shows that this team is going to take away the next world cup surely. MS Dhoni’s leadership skills, his consistent contribution to team as CAPTAIN, MENTOR, WICKET KEEPER, BATSMAN I do not see any captain matching him one to one !!

Some Suggestions to MS:

He needs to develop / mentor / give opportunity to another WICKET KEEPER keeping nation’s interest, team interest and his own interest.
He should ask the entire STAR batsmen’s to develop bowling skills – Off /Leg Spin going forward to become team of ALL ROUNDERS.
Also All Bowlers to develop some good batting skills that could score 20 to 30 runs against any team in the world.
Suggest the Captain / Vice Captain or any other play not to have extra links / focus on the CINE Stars ..Obviously – Heroines / Models
Start Searching for next set of MS Dhoni / PAthan’s / Zaheer’s/ Yuvi’s /Viru’s/Raina’s/Ishant’s/Munaf’s.
Provide them enough opportunities to Play and get practice/Experience from Other countries.
Dedicate say 10 to 15 % of total revenue BCCI gets every year to develop the youngsters.
Build new Play grounds at least One per state in the next 2-3 years. Have different Pitches to train crickers to get good exposure.
Utilize the Cricket veteran’s skills, experience to identify, train, coach junior/senior players at all levels.

My contribution to Indian team..

Balaji

Time and Importance for United IT Associates in IT Industry - India

1. When all the IT & ITES Companies can form under an umbrella called NASSCOM to protect and lobby with the Govt of India why not employees form a Union.
2. 
   When Companies lay off their employees with out a formal procedure and mechanism the employees though most of the companies in IT & ITES are not loss making companies.
   All or most of the IT & ITES companies are getting benefits from Govt in the form INCOME TAX exemption, nominal land prices, Power, Infrastructure .. whose Property is this ? Is it not People of India’s ?
   
3. The Only reason for all IT & ITES Companies under the STPI umbrella asking for INCOME TAX EXEMPTION is this IT Industry is a SUN rise industry and also in infant stage. The companies want Govt to provide help in terms of Tax, Land allocations, Lower power tariffs etc.. claiming they are providing JOBS to people and their by increasing the direct and indirect jobs to millions of others. But they forget that the IT & ITES employees are providing direct & Indirect employment to others.
   
4. The IT & ITES employees are the highest TAX payers to the Govt as their income is taxed at source ( at the company level itself ). This way they are directly helping the country in building the schools, building, roads, infra. Set up, health, education what more all things you can think of.. that is included in the budget.
   
5. When employees pay taxes to the Govt while working but Govt does not provide any security / social support system to their lives. Why not Govt think similar lines of the countries like USA etc.
   
6. How many companies are having social responsibility ? What is their profit contribution to society ? Hardly few..!! Even they got huge benefits from Govt in the form of cheap lands, power etc.
   
7. When companies terminate employees because of fake experience they produce.. Are they not getting the projects from the clients though they do not have the skills, capabilities, experience, and reference? Are they not violating basic Ethics? Where do they get the moral right to terminate employees? What will Companies will do if the Govt / employees also debar these companies who are involved in violating the rules, ethics, social responsibility?
   
8. Govt should introduce mandatory law that directs certain percentage of the profits to give back to society if they are getting Assistance from Govt.
   
9. Why not all the companies pool certain amount of their profits to form a huge organization which have training centers across the country that provides industry ready experience with nominal training fees. So that the fresher’s wont put fake experience to get jobs in the companies which demands the experience from the candidates?
   
10. The current trend / standard.. If the company finds an employee with fake experience then it terminates the employee. Why not they also terminate the HR managers who are also involved hiring process ? Also are the companies informing the client about it ? Are they terminating the contracts with the Client ? they are not doing any thing like this.. This is also one of the reason IT & ITES employees should form a Proactive, constructive, employee friendly, growth oriented development focused, socio-economic frame work based Association that talks on behalf of employees with the GOVT, with Companies, with Clients, Forums etc.
    
11. Normal when employee works more than 8 hour’s employees get Over Time ( O.T ) benefits. Though the IT employees work more than 40 hrs a week they are not paid for their additional work. Companies can claim that they are providing 2 days holidays in a week..largely its a defacto / known secret that IT employees work more than 8 hours a day.
    
12. Huge differentiations in the pay packages among the companies. Now it’s the time to introduce skills based, experience based, technology based, education based, domain based packages across the companies to remove the disparity between the employees..?
    
13. When the Govt can maintain the pay scales across the country, departs, states, taxes etc.. why not employees and company look at it ?
    
14. Some thoughts on lay off’s: In India Job is associated with Social status and hence it is more important aspect in ones life. As a part of the Indian culture we emphasize more on Jobs than entrepreneurship. Job associated to marriages, social status, style of living etc.. So Lay off’s should only be done if the company is in loss, also loss in at least 2 consecutive years. If there is dip in profits Govt should not allow the lay off’s. Additionally if the company has to lay off then a labour commissioner or his level of officers should be involved and should verify all the facts like performance, opportunities given to employees to improve and given enough communication to the individual etc and then only allow companies lay off their employees with Severance package.

Time and Importance for IT Unions / United IT Associates in IT Industry - India

When all the IT & ITES Companies can form under an umbrella called NASSCOM to protect and lobby with the Govt of India why not employees form a Union.

When Companies lay off their employees with out a formal procedure and mechanism the employees though most of the companies in IT & ITES are not loss making companies.
All or most of the IT & ITES companies are getting benefits from Govt in the form INCOME TAX exemption, nominal land prices, Power, Infrastructure .. whose Property is this ? Is it not People of India’s ?

The Only reason for all IT & ITES Companies under the STPI umbrella asking for INCOME TAX EXEMPTION is this IT Industry is a SUN rise industry and also in infant stage. The companies want Govt to provide help in terms of Tax, Land allocations, Lower power tariffs etc.. claiming they are providing JOBS to people and their by increasing the direct and indirect jobs to millions of others. But they forget that the IT & ITES employees are providing direct & Indirect employment to others.

The IT & ITES employees are the highest TAX payers to the Govt as their income is taxed at source ( at the company level itself ). This way they are directly helping the country in building the schools, building, roads, infra. Set up, health, education what more all things you can think of.. that is included in the budget.

When employees pay taxes to the Govt while working but Govt does not provide any security / social support system to their lives. Why not Govt think similar lines of the countries like USA etc.

How many companies are having social responsibility ? What is their profit contribution to society ? Hardly few..!! Even they got huge benefits from Govt in the form of cheap lands, power etc.

When companies terminate employees because of fake experience they produce.. Are they not getting the projects from the clients though they do not have the skills, capabilities, experience, and reference? Are they not violating basic Ethics? Where do they get the moral right to terminate employees? What will Companies will do if the Govt / employees also debar these companies who are involved in violating the rules, ethics, social responsibility?


The current trend / standard.. If the company finds an employee with fake experience then it terminates the employee. Why not they also terminate the HR managers who are also involved hiring process ? Also are the companies informing the client about it ? Are they terminating the contracts with the Client ? they are not doing any thing like this.. This is also one of the reason IT & ITES employees should form a Proactive, constructive, employee friendly, growth oriented development focused, socio-economic frame work based Association that talks on behalf of employees with the GOVT, with Companies, with Clients, Forums etc.

Normally when employee works more than 8 hour’s employees get Over Time ( O.T ) benefits. Though the IT employees work more than 40 hrs a week they are not paid for their additional work. Companies can claim that they are providing 2 days holidays in a week..largely its a defacto / known secret that IT employees work more than 8 hours a day.

NEXT STEPS / Solutions / Ideas :

Govt should introduce mandatory law that directs certain percentage of the profits to give back to society if they are getting Assistance from Govt.

Why not all the companies pool certain amount of their profits to form a huge organization which have training centers across the country that provides industry ready experience with nominal training fees. So that the fresher’s wont put fake experience to get jobs in the companies which demands the experience from the candidates?

Huge differentiations in the pay packages among the companies. Now it’s the time to introduce skills based, experience based, technology based, education based, domain based packages across the companies to remove the disparity between the employees..?

When the Govt can maintain the pay scales across the country, departs, states, taxes etc.. why not employees and company look at it ?

Some thoughts on lay off’s: In India Job is associated with Social status and hence it is more important aspect in ones life. As a part of the Indian culture we emphasize more on Jobs than entrepreneurship. Job associated to marriages, social status, style of living etc.. So Lay off’s should only be done if the company is in loss, also loss in at least 2 consecutive years. If there is dip in profits Govt should not allow the lay off’s. Additionally if the company has to lay off then a labour commissioner or his level of officers should be involved and should verify all the facts like performance, opportunities given to employees to improve and given enough communication to the individual etc and then only allow companies lay off their employees with Severance package.

Govt Should only allow MERGERS / TAKE OVER / ACQUISATIONS with guarantees from the companies that they will not lay off employees. In the history in all the M&A the first and final impacted person is Employees only. Why should Govt allow comapnies when they removing employees rather than recruting ? Why to add / provide more security to Investors than the employees..?

Can IT & ITES companies can think of business without employees first ?

Many more to add..


Many more thoughts be added

Why Huge Packages & Bonus for CEO's in USA and Next Actions to Govt

I think its once in life time or once in 100 years or so.. that we are facing this Credit crunch WW. Millions of people are losing / will be losing thier jobs.. Its all because of the greediness ( best case : Sub prime business) of the people in developed ( majority) and also we can see in the developing nations.. People created artificial demand, hyped / hijacked the prices from real estate to crude, food items and salaries etc.. everything in one nut shell.

Because of that people, companies are now facing severe problems in all fronts. Here I am looking at the current salary/package and also bonus for the CEO’s in USA. As per one report in 2008 the Executives / CEO’s /CxO’s got US $ 18 Billion dollars. Apart from that there are N number of CEO’s taking huge packages and still laying of employees..? What moral responsibility the CEO’S have ?
I feel ….

1. The US Govt .should quickly look at it put a CAP on all CEO’s salaries or total compensation per year to very realistic.. It could be perhaps 5-8 lakh dollars maximum.. that’s about 0.5 to 0.8 mill US $’s.

2. Also the Govt. should put self-moratorium on the bonus and dividend to share holders, employees and Employers for about 2-3 years till the economy recovers.

3. No CxO’s should be allowed to use personal JETs for business purpose even if these facilities are provided to the Companies.

4. CEO’s package should have a certain percent of component related to employee satisfaction. Probably to start with 20 % of their package related to EMP. SAT.

5. If the company fails to deliver profits the CEO, Board, Executive management should a package cut immediately when they announce the Qtr results.

6. Govt. should not allow a single company to become NUMERO UNO in many fields for example software, hardware, mfg, Services etc. This will reduces the greediness & exploitation in the companies to certain extent.


Like these many of the actions to be taken to get right the industry in the right TRACK and also avoid the mass layoff’s / sufferings of the employees in these difficult times..

I am keen to help, assist in what ever way possible to save someone’s job.

Sincerely,
Balaji …

It's Time for Income Tax / Govt change thier rules..

I started thinking why does the Govt requires the supporting / proof documents for Income T ax especially for salaried employees.. Some of their thinking and logics and decisions are very OLD school of think tank..

Some of the Selective items I would like to discuss and leave the options open are..

1. Conveyance allowance
2. HRA
3. Gratuity duration
4. LTA support bills
5. Medical support bills.

1. Conveyance allowance : this amount is fixed to 800.00 irrespective of the fluctuations in the markets, cost of living, International Crude rates / India's basket rate for Crude, Inflation, local Petrol and Diesel rates. This is very unfair. Its burden on the employees ..where they are paying the INCOME TAX when their issues are not taken care / considered . Does this give fair value to the citizen or salaried employee's hard earned money ?

2. Why does the Govt also need supporting document ie the rent receipt.? If the employee is working .. he is living right..? Since Govt fixed this as around 40 % of basic..how many cases it is still relevant..? Keeping rents, cost of living and many more factors..

3. About the Gratuity duration: As of now its 5 years of continuous Service in the company where he is working. Now in the IT/software industry where employees are changing the company frequently and are paying / contributing to high income tax collections kitty and also Govt itself provided the Income Tax exemption ( STPI registered companies) to IT Companies..recognizing need to grow this industry IT SHOULD AMEND THE CURRENT Laws to 2 years of Service rather than 5 years. Employees are losing their money at least 3-4 % of their CTC and this goes to a dead account where you don't know where these funds are utilized ? Why it is not given to employee like PF amount. Some of the reasons I can also add is .. When Companies lay off employees..govt does not provide any support to these employees. look at other countries like USA where you have SOCIAL SECURITY is available.

If this is the condition why should Employees pay INCOME TAX to Govt ? So I think Govt should scrap this rule and allow employees to with draw their Gratuity like PF when they are not working irrespective of no of years they have worked in that company.

If the Govt thinks we should provide the supporting documents and also pay income tax... then Why not Govt send their income and expense info to all the TAX Payers? The people should know how their money is spent in detail. Its Time to THINK RADICAL and also put the govt in accountable shape and form.

New / Additional metrics for Future Valuations

Some of the new metrics I thought of.. or might come in the future in the corporate world ..I propose these metrics to value companies and also help in understanding the Company future trends. It would also differentiate companies from others ..set standards or bench marks for valuing a company in the near future..

1. Social responsibility Index: What is the contribution of the company to Society. For example percentage of revenue / profit every year it allocates to society development / charitable trusts / foundations etc.

2. Employee Satisfaction Percentage:

3.Corporate Governance Recognition: How the companies is respected by the industry in terms of its corporate governance. International awards, bench marks, transparency etc..

4. Corporate Earning Guidance Rate : A company able to provide the Earnings guidance and also able to maintain in terms of number of quarters / years etc..

5. Business Diversification (For example IT company getting into Mfg / Real estate etc..)
6. Vendors Confidence Index

7. Percentage of Repeat business from Clients

8. Scalability and Offerings Capabilities rate.

9. Employee Attrition Rate

Watch this space ...

From Balaji..