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Sensible sharing
Career Hotline
Back on track
Call of Computers
New Horizons
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Sensible sharing
If someone were to ask “what is the perpetual problem faced by IT?”, more often than not, the answer would be — “how to increase computing capacity without investing in new infrastructure, licensing new software or training new personnel”.
This is where the latest buzzword of IT comes in — Cloud Computing — simply put; it’s a means of utilising computing power without investing in new infrastructure or software. It is about using computing capacity of a third party to grow your business, thus paying only for what you use. Let’s look at the official definition of the term, (from the latest draft of the NIST — working definition of cloud computing published by the US government’s National institute of standards and technology): Cloud computing is a model for enabling convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction. To translate this into an example, let us look at a small enterprise – say, a florist. Now the florist’s primary expertise is to make brilliant flower arrangements. To get the business going, he has to deliver the flowers to various addresses in the city. Let us say he has hired a few vehicles and has employed a certain number of people to deliver the flowers. The business, of course, is sometimes good (and either more vehicles and people are required, or deliveries are delayed) and is slow at other times (in which case there are vehicles and people sitting idle, without enough cash coming in). Our florist thus has a problem. To solve this, he signs a contract with a company that has a number of delivery personnel and vehicles, and he can use them as often as needed, to whatever capacity he requires. Life is good again, and business grows. The florist naturally takes orders online as well, and needs a certain amount of computing capacity, which he can manage in his office. He slowly expands the business and opens a chain of flower shops, from where orders are taken and deliveries are made. Of course, with this expansion, he has to spend a considerable amount of money on computing infrastructure, hire personnel, maintain server space, etc. To tide over this problem, let us say the florist outsources his computing needs to a third-party provider, who takes care of server space, software, and all allied computing infrastructure requirements. All our florist needs to do is connect to the provider’s network through the Internet, and go about business as usual. Just like in the case of the delivery vehicles, he pays for what he uses, doesn’t have idle labour or infrastructure and ends up saving a lot of money. Our florist has adopted Cloud Computing. Cloud computing, therefore, serves as an easy to use solution to an individual’s or a company’s computing needs. There are four different ways in which Cloud Computing can be deployed — the choice of a deployment model depends upon the exact requirements that the consumer has: Public cloud: Public cloud services are characterised as being available to clients from a third party service provider via the Internet. The term “public” doesn’t always mean free, even though it can be free or fairly inexpensive to use. A public cloud doesn’t mean that a user’s data is publically visible; public cloud vendors typically provide an access control mechanism for their users. Public clouds provide an elastic, cost effective means to deploy solutions. Private cloud: Private cloud services offer many of the benefits of a public cloud environment, such as being elastic and service based. The difference is that in a private cloud, data and processes are managed within the organisation without the restrictions of network bandwidth, security exposures and legal requirements that using public cloud services might entail. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the hardware for computing is located within the organisation’s premises — it can be managed by a third party. In addition, private services offer the provider and the user greater control of the cloud infrastructure, improving security and resilience because user access and the networks used are restricted and designated. Community cloud: Community clouds are controlled and used by a group of organisations that have shared interests, such as specific security requirements or a comon mission. The members of the community share access to the data and applications in the cloud. Hybrid cloud: A Hybrid cloud is a combination of a public and private cloud that interoperates. In this model users typically outsource non business-critical information and processing to the public cloud, while keeping business-critical services and data in their control. The most common concern while talking about cloud computing is that of data/resource safety. This is not a trivial concern. There have been data losses by some online storage vendors, who were unable to recover it for customers. There’s also the danger that sensitive data could fall into the wrong hands. To make the dealing as foolproof as possible, before signing up with any cloud vendor, customers should demand information about data security practices, scrutinise SLAs, and make sure they have the ability to encrypt data both in transit and at rest. While the disadvantages of cloud computing include data safety as well as the fact that the customer doesn’t own the infrastructure, the pros of the technology far outweigh these disadvantages. The biggest selling point of Cloud Computing is lower cost. The fact is that companies would incur significantly lower technology-based capital expenditures, which should enable them to focus their money on delivering the goods and services that they specialise in. There will be more device and location independence, enabling users to access systems no matter where they are located or what kind of device they are using. The sharing of costs and resources amongst so many users will also allow for efficiencies and cost savings around things like performance, load balancing, and even locations (locating data centers and infrastructure in areas with lower real estate costs, for example). Cloud computing is also thought to affect reliability and scalability in positive ways. Besides, Cloud Computing results in improved resource utilization, which is good for the sustainability movement (i.e. green technology or clean technology) There are a number of speedbreakers in the path of this technology taking off; however, a few large educational companies like Aptech have launched a course in CC to spread the already widespread acceptance. But the only thing that can be said with certainty is that Cloud Computing is here to stay, and is bound to change the way computing is done, all over the world. (The writer is COO Aptech Ltd. & Global Head, Aptech Computer Education)
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Career Hotline
Q. I am a 23 year-old and about to complete my BAMS. I have heard that the demand for qualified ayurveda doctors is growing in the spa and wellness industry. What should I do to avail of this opportunity?
— Pooja Khanna
However, preference is given to those ayurveda professionals who have also formally learnt international spa therapies and have acquired an international certification in wellness from bodies like CIBTAC or ITEC. To make the best use of this opportunity you may consider doing a course in international spa therapies from any of the academies offering CIBTAC or ITEC certifications in India. Moving further, it will also make sense to pursue a course in SPA Management wherein you will learn the managerial and administrative aspects of spas and wellness centres. One such institute offering CIBTAC & ITEC qualifications is the Ananda Spa Institute in Hyderabad, which is part of the internationally renowned spa Ananda in the Himalayas. You can check out their various course offerings on www.anandaspainstitute.com (E-mail: ajaym@anandaspainstitute.com) The next batch for the five-month ASI Holistic Diploma starts end-August.
Institutes in metros have an edge
Q. When it comes to ticking the institutes of one’s choice in the NCHMCT form, on what basis should one decide? What are the approximate fees? Can I take the exam in Hindi? My English is OK, but not very good. — Shankar Mansukhani A. Although the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology has 21 Central and 35 affiliated institutes, it may be wise to opt for those with the best infrastructure and faculty. Be that as it may, the IHMs based in large metros like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai or Ahmedabad are popular simply because opportunities for on-campus placement are better in cities that have plenty of hotels and restaurants and fast-food joints catering to a large domestic as well as international tourist inflow. Most of the big hotel chains have their presence in these cities, which makes for excellent exposure and better compensation packages in the long run. Besides, students from smaller towns also prefer to opt for IHMs in these metros because the reputation of the institute and exposure to working in a big city gives them an edge over the local pass-outs if they decide to work in their hometown. Roughly, the fee (excluding board and lodging) for the course is approximately Rs 1.6 lakh (the private institutes charge higher). Selection is on the basis of an all-India Joint Entrance Exam (JEE). Incidentally, all the institutes falling under NCHMCT offer a BSc degree in Hospitality and Hotel Administration from IGNOU. This will also open up future avenues for students who wish to go in for higher education and further specialisation abroad. It will also prevent students from enrolling in dubious institutions merely for the sake of a degree. For details, log on to www.nchmct.org. The complete list of institutes is displayed on their website (www.nchmct.org). Besides these IHMs, there are nearly 300 registered and autonomous institutes offering degree and diploma programmes in hotel management, besides the burgeoning number of foreign players who have also entered the fray through their affiliates. The Question Paper for the JEE (3-hour) which will be held on May 8, 2010, is bilingual i.e. in English and Hindi (except for English Language Paper).
Age no bar
Q. Although I’ve been working in this company for the past 20 years (started out as a management trainee), I feel that my loyalty and experience are not being recognised. Newcomers are taken on at fancy salaries and often given the same level of responsibility. I feel very cheated. At 45 is it too late to look for a change?
— Akhilesh Mehrotra With under-40 CEOs heading MNCs, 20-something sub-editors and IT top honchos in the 25-35 range, time-bound promotions and the faithful old retainer are passé, at least in today’s professionally managed corporate world. Experience definitely counts, but by itself doesn’t guarantee security. No matter what your age, you must be fleet-footed enough to adapt to the changing environment. A dynamic and open mind, readiness to learn and acquire lateral skills (I trust you are reasonably computer savvy) and gel with the team will determine your value to the organisation. It’s the survival of the fittest, and the swiftest. As for looking for a change, just get over the idea that you’re too old to do so. Even in tough times like now, why delay changing jobs because of your age? Four years from now, you’ll be four years older whether you change careers or not. Point? In fact, age can be one of your most powerful advantages in your job search provided: i. You have the right attitude and strategy to overcome the subtle and not so subtle age bias that exists in every interview. ii. You can present your age and experience as ‘must-haves’ for your potential employer. iii. You can position yourself as the best and most qualified candidate for the job you want.
Education research programmes
Q. I am an elementary school teacher. What is NIEPA? What programmes does it offer on education?
— Akhil Mehra In addition, NUEPA offers about 50 professional programmes. These include long-term and short-term training programmes, seminars, conferences and meetings with senior national and international education policy-makers, planners and administrators. Participants and trainees often include high school principals and It offers two (six-month) diploma programmes in educational planning and administration — one each for the national and international participants. NUEPA uses a combination of modern methodologies in training delivery, including structured presentations, practical work, syndicate work, case studies, group discussions and modern audio-visual methods. All training programmes are supported by professionally developed training material. You can get all the relevant information at its website www.nuepa.org. The snail mail address is: National University of Educational Planning & Administration, 17-B, Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi 110 016. Tel: 011-26863562, 2692335.
The writer is a noted career expert and director, Career Guidance India (CARING). Please send in your queries with your full name, complete address and academic qualifications to: The Editor, Jobs and Careers, The Tribune, Sector 29, Chandigarh-160030, or at careers
@tribunemail.com
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Back on track
The recent economic downturn hit the IT sector the hardest, raising doubts in the minds of those desirous of pursuing careers in the IT sector. Ravi Pokharna, Director of PT Education, New Delhi, feels those nurturing dreams of a bright career in the sector should not lose hope as things are going to look up soon. Excerpts from an interview:
How has the economic downturn affected computer education in India? Strengthening of rupee against dollar and consolidation of financial services sector in the US have been the reasons that had contributed to the brief lull in the otherwise vibrant Indian IT industry. No doubt IT sector’s exemplary double digit growth had left everyone in awe and the huge demand of IT/ ITeS professionals had attracted graduates from all streams to go for MCA and engineers from all branches to opt for Software development. A rationalisation was due. After a year of scare and threat the industry is on track, the last quarter results of major India IT companies, pay hikes and accelerated recruitment processes have brought back the smiles. What are the concerns of students in this field that you address as a trainer and motivator? Majority of the computer graduates are confused between MBA or MCA as a career option. The confusion stems from the belief that managers occupy higher and better positions in the industry. It is a myth. Another myth is that MCA graduates would be doing coding all through their life. Let me clarify. An MCA graduate, who has spent three-four years in the industry, has a fair chance to move into consulting, sales/ presales, business analyst position, project management etc based on his/ her presentation skills and people management skills. Are there any new areas that the youngsters should explore to enhance their career prospects? IT is a fast developing field. Our education institutes haven’t been able to keep up the course development with the pace of the sector. Today when industry is hungry for good ‘Database Managers’, ‘Database Administrators’, Mainframes programmers, programmers with expertise on J2ME, J2EE, MCA and engineering colleges in country are yet to revise their courses. Students should realise this and develop an expertise/ niche for themselves during their post graduation. IT professionals looking for entrepreneurial options should look at opportunities in areas like ‘Remote infrastructure management services’. What are the job prospects for those opting for computer courses now? The industry is back on track. We are set to achieve the software and services revenue goal of $ 73-75 billion by 2010, which was set by Nasscom. IT majors have begun fresh hiring; pay hikes have begun to happen. How much growth do you foresee for this sector in the next few years? Almost 18 months of slowdown have proved to be benificial for the Indian IT sector. Striving to keep up with the growth plans, the companies were forced to diversify towards European clients and the second major thing to happen was that companies started looking inwards, towards domestic clients. The growth in the domestic business has been more than 30 per cent, which is phenomenal. Clubbed with the ever-growing BPO/ ITeS (30-40 per cent) Indian IT sector is now well placed. What are the job opportunities in the Northern region? Interestingly, last few years have seen the IT boom shifting northwards. Cities like Gurgaon, Noida, Chandigarh, to name a few, are emerging as the next hot favourite IT destinations. This augurs well for the IT job aspirants in the region as all the major companies like Sapient, IBM are on a hiring spree.
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Call of Computers
The beauty of this field is that you don’t necessarily need a degree or an engineering qualification. Today diploma and certificate courses are developing job skills focused on employment. These are offered at computer institutes and polytechnics that work closely with industry and commerce, identify the knowledge, skills and experience demanded by employers and tailor the professional programmes accordingly.
JOB AVENUES
A basic level course in computers, or an “O” level course at a DOEACC institute will teach you the basics of computer operations along with some programmes. This will enable you to work in Data Entry, which requires the feeding of information into a computer, as per the design of the programme. Typing skills and a knowledge of computer languages are essential for the task. Most jobs are usually with user organisations where large volume of data has to be entered into the computer. With some further training you could also move into programming jobs, where you would be responsible for writing and testing programmes and assisting users during the implementation phase. If you are able to pick up fluency in some computer languages and technologies like C, C++, Java, Cobol, UNIX and many others, with pre-requisities to build on future technologies, you can look forward to a good career in computers, building on newer programmes and technologies as they come along. The “A” and “B” level DOEACC programmes equivalent to graduation can prepare you to deal with development of applications for different operating systems, like Microsoft Office suite, web browsers like Internet Explorer, Paintbrush and Photoshop. Each level of fluency makes you competent enough to move into a higher and more sophisticated technology. To increase your career prospects in this field, you can learn any number of new programmes, languages and technologies according to your interest and capability. Depending on the competencies you are able to develop you could take up jobs such as that of systems analyst, systems programmers, analyst programmers, database management, networking, coders and so on. The minimum requirement for entry at this level is a logical bent of mind and a willingness to learn continuously. Systems analysts handle phases of analysis and design in software development. They are also responsible for final testing and advising clients on purchase and installation of appropriate computer systems. Work involves researching organisational procedures and evolving a plan for their computerisation. Work is with software houses, consultancy firms or large computer users. Systems programmers write and develop systems software, which direct the computer and its functions. Work is mainly with computer manufacturers, software houses and R&D institutes. Analyst programmers are programmers with enough experience to handle small and medium-sized computerisation projects in their entirety. The Analyst Programmers’ major responsibilities include analysing user requirements, programming, testing, and installation of software. Jobs are usually with small computer centres — or if very experienced — in user organisations with large computer networks. Coders must possess a thorough understanding of computer languages. Database administration implies management and maintenance of corporate data, as well as control of its access. This task requires considerable experience of database systems and business needs, and is a specialist area. In addition there are advanced jobs in computer software development and design, which require the competencies of an engineer. Whereas software professionals need to understand the working of organisations, write programmes and deal effectively with computer and non-computer people, the software engineer takes a more scientific approach and remains within the confines of the laboratory. Hardware and Networking is another aspect of computers, which offers increasing career scope. Recent surveys have revealed that the electronics and hardware sector in India is expected to grow above the $60 billion mark. There are MNCs or big IT houses with BPO like facilities with a network as vast as WAN or LAN. A networking course equips you with the knowledge required to set up computer networks and link ups. Courses like CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Administrator), MSCE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer,) are renowned and have great opportunities.
Web designing
With the development of internet and other related services, the demand for Web designers and developers has risen greatly. While web designers basically have to be creative, at the same time possessing a certain command over computer languages, web developers are basically electronics and computer engineers who are involved in constructing and developing various internet websites.
Security concerns
Today the computer has emerged as the largest storehouse of information and telecommunication technologies have become essential information system components. But much as the computer rules our lives, computer-related gadgets have become soft targets for virus attacks. Hacking has become a household word with hackers today having evolved from a small group of highly specialised people writing malicious virus codes, to widespread professional thieves stealing identities and assets, destroying individual lives and ruining businesses. As a result, there is today a great demand for information security professionals. Areas of expertise within information security, cover a huge range of jobs, both technical and non-technical. Those interested in this field can work in applications and systems development security, auditing and monitoring of security breaches, building Security architecture and models for an organization, as well as counter measures and prevention techniques for dealing with viruses, worms and other forms of deviant code. The technical skills in this profession include good programming and analytical skills, reasonable knowledge of databases, networking and operating systems and understanding of the Operating system, IP, Routers and Switches, other networking, firewalls and content security. There are limited courses available in India, among the better known is the Certified Information System Security Provision (CISSP) certification, while NIIT also offers a course in Information Security Systems. Besides this there are certain specialised courses being run by companies like Cisco, Global e-Secure, Appin Online and others, which help an individual trying to make a career in the security arena. Technology in the computer field moves so rapidly that anyone with a strong aptitude, logical skills and some leadership qualities can rise quickly within an organisation, even with little formal training. In the computer world it is your basic abilities that count, not so much your qualifications. The scope in the field of computers is immense. Opportunities for work exist within a wide range of computer companies as well user organisations. These could include banks, insurance and telecommunication firms to small consultancies and software companies.
Computer Institutes
There are so many different jobs and applications for the computer that anyone with an interest and aptitude for handling a computer can make a career in computers.
At the higher end there are the software engineers qualified in computer/ IT or electronics engineering, or Masters in Computer Applications (MCA), but even if you are a science or commerce graduate, a career in software can still be pursued, through training in a particular language or application process, available at hundreds of computer training institutes around the country. Depending on the field of work you wish to pursue you can select a relevant course. The Department of Electronics Accreditation of Computer Courses Scheme (DOEACC) is the main authority that regulates and recognises all computer courses. DOEACC Society imparts all round IT/Computer knowledge and skills, through its nationwide network of approved institutes. It basically imparts four Levels of courses as follows: “O” Level (Foundation) (1 year), in which you will have to clear four papers. One can then get jobs as a Programmer Assistant or Junior Programmer or Console Operator or EDP Assistant. “A” Level (Advanced Diploma) (two yrs) consists of 10 papers. Your job opportunities will be as Programmer or EDP Officer or Asst. to Database Manager or you could be a Member of the Teaching Faculty or Laboratory Demonstrator. “B” Level (MCA level) (three yrs) is where you will have to clear 25 papers. At this level, you can aim for a career as System Analyst or Software Engineer or EDP Manager or Member of Training Faculty or even as an R & D Scientist. “C” Level (MTech level) (1½ yrs) requires you to clear 16 papers. After completing this level you can have a good career as a Project Manager or Systems Specialist/Manager, or Member of Training Faculty or as a consultant. There are also private institutes like NIIT, Aptech, Tata Unisys, and so on that offer a variety of programmes. The courses include those in computer software and hardware, Java, .Net developers, Web 2.0., Creative Publishing, Systems & Networking, Business Intelligence & Data Warehousing. They also offer some industry certified programmes by global InfoTech majors including Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco, IBM etc that offer their own certification programmes and are recognised worldwide. There are also vocational and technical institutes that offer computer hardware courses.
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New Horizons
What is the industry status today? It is an upcoming career with good growth potential. As this market is still in early phase of growth in India, it will take a decade to reach the saturation point. India will have more cosmetic surgeries and non-surgical cosmetic procedures in the year to come. The market is growing at the rate of 30 to 40 per cent annually at present. What are the new trends that the industry is witnessing? In the present era of look consciousness, general outlook towards life has changed a lot. With each passing year more and more women as well as men are opting for cosmetic surgery, making it popular and acceptable. Looking young is the new beauty mantra. Men, too, are joining the trend. A few years ago the ratio between women and men going in for these procedures was 90:10, but now it has gone up to 60:40. Now we are witnessing a major shift from people who want to remain beautiful to people wanting to remain young. The recent years have shown increased popularity of procedures like face-lift, neck-lift, blepharoplasty, breast lift, thigh lift etc and this trend will continue at a much faster pace in coming years. The new trends in cosmetic surgery are butt implants, Botox, liposuction. Fat transplants and less invasive techniques are going to be more popular in the years to come. Do you think the demand for professionals in this field will increase drastically in the next few years? Certainly. There are about 1700 plastic surgeons in India at present. The Indian Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Association has 150 members. There are about 700 to 800 practicing cosmetic surgeons. Thus there is a huge scope for growth in this field as the awaremness about body image is increasing among the middle class people so in future the need for cosmetic surgeons is going to multiply and the scope is going to be more in the Tier 2 and 3 cities. Till now the growth has been concentrated in metropolitan cities but soon the trend is going to be of chains of cosmetic surgery clinics in smaller cities, too. The northern region has a tremendous scope for growth, as this is a prosperous area and more number of people can afford cosmetic procedures here. What is the skill set and qualification required for getting into this field? A person should be MBBS, MS in Surgery, M.Ch in plastic surgery and must possess specialised training in cosmetic surgery. The one major difference between a normal medical practitioner and a cosmetic surgeon is that cosmetic surgeon deals with normal people and not with people with diseases and most of the clients come voluntarily and by choice to undergo surgery. A cosmetic surgeon also has to be a psychologist. He needs to find out why a person wants to go in for a certain procedure and to ensure that the person is not suffering from body dysmorphic disorder. As a competent cosmetic surgeon it is essential to ascertain whether there is a real need for a certain procedure or the person is just imagining things. Besides this the doctor has to ensure that the client has realistic expectations and not expect drastic changes How
lucrative is this career? Those choosing this profession can work as consultants with different hospitals apart from having private praqctice. Most of big hospitals now have separate departments dealing with cosmetic surgery procedures. The salary package of cosmetic surgeons may vary from organisation to organisation. For those at the fresher level, the salary may seem to be low, but with experience, the salary of the cosmetic surgeon increases. Apart from salary one can make good money in private practice. Which are the main institutes providing a formal degree in this field? Anyone planning to pursue a course should always do plastic surgery training from a good institute like Grant Medical College-Mumbai, Nair Medical College-Mumbai, Sufdarjung Hospital, and the PGI, Chandigarh. For cosmetic surgery one should always go in for a good private institute either in India or abroad.
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Happiness @ work
This way, you won’t get into a depression every time things don’t go your way at work. And after retirement, you won’t have a big vacuum to fill. “I have no work, yet I am engaged in all sorts of undertakings,” said Krishna (Gita 3.22). He was perfect in the 64 arts of life that ranged from politics, troubleshooting, teaching philosophy to knowing foreign languages, singing, dancing and sleight of hand. On a visit to Dwarka, Narada saw Krishna busy in various endeavours — spending time with wives and kids, military training, listening to scriptures, discussing matters of state etc. Gandhiji gives his recipe for a balanced life, “If all laboured for their bread and no more, there would be enough food and enough leisure for all.” In the Mahabharata, Kaushika, a talented young scholar, left his old parents unsupported to pursue higher education. The wise Dharmavyad told him, “Dharma, in fact, is in pursuing a balanced life. Go back to your parents.” It isn’t wise to first ruin your health to make money and then spending that money to regain health.
— Sai R. Vaidyanathan The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com
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If someone were to ask “what is the perpetual problem faced by IT?”, more often than not, the answer would be — “how to increase computing capacity without investing in new infrastructure, licensing new software or training new personnel”.
Spa specialist
A. Yes, you have heard right, the demand for qualified ayurveda professionals is growing rapidly in the spa and wellness sectors across the world. Ayurveda is gaining fast recognition as the traditional Indian healing method and is now being widely practiced in spas and wellness centres across the world. The demand for trained and qualified medical professionals with a BAMS / BPT has grown and more and more Indian ayurveda doctors are finding job opportunities with reasonably good salaries. 
A. In the present work environment characterised by rapid change and obsolescence, swift climbers and fast-track growth, the slow and steady don’t necessarily win the race. 
A. NIEPA is now NUEPA, National University of Educational Planning and Administration. It is the apex national institution of educational planning and administration, actively engaged in educational research, training and consultancy. Starting August 2006, the institution has been granted a deemed university status by the Government of India. Accordingly, NUEPA now has full-time MPhil and full-time as well as part-time PhD programmes in educational policy, planning, finance and administration from a broader inter-disciplinary social science perspective. The focus areas of research cover school education, higher education, inclusive education, constitutional rights and management information system, etc. from both national and international development perspectives.
Computers present a range of career opportunities for those with the right qualifications. Virtually any job today requires some computer handling skills. Whether keying in cash entries at a bank, or programming information for a TV reality show, whether preparing computer aided fashion designs or an online test for the MBA exam, the growing usage and versatility of the computer, and the ever-expanding reach of the Internet have opened a wide variety of career options for those with an interest in and aptitude for computers.
Though plastic surgery has been practiced in India since long, cosmetic surgery has gained considerable importance in the past five to six years only. Many people, especially those working in the entertainment industry, always look for some kind of modification in their physical appearance and thus, resort to cosmetic procedures. This is the reason why the importance of cosmetic surgery has increased in the present scenario. As such there is a huge demand for cosmetic surgeons. After pursuing a course in the relevant field, one can specialise in a particular part of body (for the purpose) or a surgical technique. Excerpts of an interview with famous cosmetic surgeon Dr Anup Dhir, Senior Consultant Apollo Hospital, New Delhi:
For those who have no other dimension to themselves except work, the Dalai Lama advises, “Widen your self-image. Realise that you have different roles in addition to your work.”
