GEOLOGY
Earth Scientists
Here is a field that is ideal for those with a nose for science and a sense of adventure coupled with a strong desire to be a part of Mother Earth’s evolutionary story
Usha Albuquerque

I am sure reading about snowstorm Sandy, how it blustered through the East Coast of America and caused so much damage, must have got you thinking. What causes such freak weather conditions? You probably have also thought about other questions such as what makes a continent move, or a volcano erupt? What effects will shrinking glaciers have on the oceans and climate? Why did the dinosaur become extinct? And so on.

The Earth is an amazing outdoor laboratory filled with opportunities to observe so many natural processes in action. There are scientists who work in this giant laboratory, gathering and interpreting data about the Earth and other planets. They use their knowledge to increase our understanding of the Earth processes, and to improve the quality of human life. They are called geo scientists, as “geo” in Greek means earth. As there are so many different aspects of the earth and the work so broad and diverse, there are many disciplines in geosciences, the major ones being — geology, geophysics, hydrology, oceanography, marine science, atmospheric science, planetary science, meteorology, environmental science, and soil science.

Geology is a subject that is gaining in importance, more so as our populations increase with the consequent need for exploring and utilising our natural resources and mineral wealth. Geologists are scientists who study the earth’s crust to obtain an accurate picture of its structure, history, and composition. Most geologists work or supervise exploration work at a variety of sites — deserts, land forms, ocean floors, riverbeds, mountains, etc.

They identify rocks, minerals, and fossils, conduct geological surveys, construct maps and use instruments such as the gravimeter and magnetometer to measure the earth’s gravity and magnetic field.

The work

Geological work involves location of physical data and material by drilling of deep holes to obtain samples for studying materials found on or near the earth’s surface and in the sea.

Geologists explore areas rich in under-water resources, oil, natural gas and minerals and determine the quality of soil by conducting geo-chemical and geo-physical tests. They analyse information collected through seismic prospecting that involves bouncing sound waves off deeply buried rock layers, examine surface rocks and samples of buried rocks and study information collected by satellites.

They can assess whether the conditions in particular areas are suitable for laying railway lines, construction of roads, bridges, buildings and other major infrastructure projects.

Geologists also explore for crude oil and natural gas by studying rock formations, and use microscopes to examine rocks fragments (cuttings) from wells that are being drilled. Geologists develop surface and subsurface maps to locate oil and gas resources.

They locate rock layers cropping out on the surface of the ground and use data from the existing wells to make subsurface maps of the reservoir rocks. By matching rock layers between wells, they can draw cross sections to find petroleum traps.

Reflecting the complexity of the natural world in which they work, most geologists possess interdisciplinary skills and often work in teams with other geoscientists whose expertise complements their own. They work closely with geophysicists who use the principles of physics, mathematics, and chemistry to study not only the earth’s surface, but its internal composition, ground and surface waters, atmosphere, oceans, and magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. In recent years geophysicists working with petroleum geologists have been able to locate more precisely oil and gas deposits through means of seismic exploration and using advanced computer modeling.

Most geophysicists use three methods of oil exploration: magnetic, gravity, and seismic.

In magnetic exploration, a magnetometer is used to determine the strength of the earth’s magnetic field at a specific point on the earth’s surface.

In gravity exploration, a gravity meter, or gravimeter, is used to determine the strength of the earth’s gravity at a specific location. The magnetometer and gravity meter are used to locate hidden, sub-surface petroleum traps.

In seismic exploration, sound is transmitted into the ground by an explosive, such as dynamite, or by a thumper truck. As the sound passes into the sub-surface, it is reflected off sub-surface rock layers and returned to the surface as echoes. The echoes are detected and recorded at the surface with microphones, called geophones, or jugs. The recordings are processed to form a picture of sub-surface rock layers.

Specialisation areas

Specialised areas of work for geologist could include economic geology, to explore and study mineral deposits for economic purposes; engineering geology, applying geological data, techniques, and principles to study rock and soil materials and ground water that could affect the construction of structures such as bridges, buildings, airports, and dams; environmental geology to study the interaction between the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, and work to solve problems associated with pollution, waste management, urbanisation, and so on; as well as volcanology for investigating volcanoes and volcanic phenomena to understand these natural hazards and predict eruptions, as also geochemistry, hydrogeology, marine geology, mineralogy, planetology, and other such fields.

Getting in

The work of geologists is inter-disciplinary in nature, involving the application of principles from biology, chemistry and physics, and therefore students getting into this field require to have a broad science background strongly focused on research and work-related expertise. There are many universities in India offering courses in geology including BSc and MSc in geology and applied geology as well as MTech in Petroleum Geosciences and Geoexploration Some of the universities include — University of Pune, BHU Faculty of Science, Kurukshetra University, National Geophysical Research Institute, Hyderabad, Maharishi Dayanand University Rohtak and others. Geoscience can be an attractive and challenging career because of the opportunity to work outdoors, often in beautiful environs located far from the busy trappings of urban life. Work in this field involves a fair dose of field work, carrying out geologic mapping, sample collection, various types of data-gathering, as well as laboratory research. Much like a detective a geoscientist gathers data of many types – often from the field or from samples, or both – and looks for relationships that can be explained through application of basic principles of geology and other sciences. Using data and observations, geoscientists typically construct detailed models to explain their findings, discuss their ideas with colleagues, and present the conclusions both orally and in print. Working so close to nature and often being rewarded by the sheer thrill of making new discoveries can make this a fascinating career.

Remuneration and skills

It is also a well paid one, students graduating with MSc and PhD degrees in geology command a starting salary of about Rs 2-5 lakh in the oil industry. As much of the work requires good team work, geologists good in communication — especially in English and computer graphics — and mathematical modelling are in the highest demand. This is also a field which shows increased growth of opportunities given the continuing need for energy and natural resources, environmental protection, and improving of the nation’s infrastructure. With the increasing populations and the pressure on the land and its resources, moving towards geologically sensitive regions, there will be greater opportunities for qualified geoscientists than ever before. So for those with a nose for science and a sense of adventure with a strong desire to be a part of Mother Earth’s evolutionary story, here is a career with a difference.

— The writer is Director, Careers Smart Pvt Ltd, New Delhi

Job scape

• Most trained geologists can get jobs with the Geological Survey of India, the Central Ground Water Board, Coal India, Oil & Natural Gas Corporation, Mineral Exploration Authority, Hindustan Zinc and many other government organisations.
• The Union Public Service Commission conducts the entrance tests for jobs in these organisations.
• In addition the defence services and the para-military forces also use the services of geologists.
• The increasing oil prices and the necessity for locating fresh sources of oil have put a new urgency to the demand for qualified geologists in the petroleum industry. Government oil companies such as ONGC as also private organisations like Reliance, Cairn India and British Petroleum are struggling to find trained petroleum geologists for oil exploration work in the deserts of Rajasthan and Gujarat and from offshore oil wells.
• Geologists are also required for exploration of mineral resources as the demand for minerals such as iron ore, gold/sliver, zinc, and copper increase along with the need for exploring newer materials essential for industry, and other uses. The development of new infrastructure projects such as the construction of highways, airports, ports, dams, pipelines, and new urban complexes and the consequent demand for ground water opens possibilities for jobs for engineering geologists while the exploration for and management of water resources is increasing the demand for hydrogeologists.
• Increased processing of raw materials has come at a cost of increasing pollution of water resources, and the need for environmental geologists.

office mantra: art of corporate gifting
The gift sense
Swati Rai

The festival season in our country is also the ‘gifting’ season. However, gifting in the corporate sector is not the same as exchanging gifts in one’s personal space. It is more of a way of showing one’s appreciation for a good job done or a path to pave the way for fruitful future business interactions. It is, in fact, an art and a science which is more complex than it seems.

Gift giving and receiving is a gesture to build relations, strengthen the existing bonds and forge everlasting business relations. It is an etiquette that can mar relations if not carried out appropriately and its implications have eternal relevance. Ace the art of corporate gifting this festive season with the following tips and thumb rules.

Identify the goal

Gifting is more than a voluntary heartfelt gesture of thanking or appreciating someone. In its dynamics lies the code of obligation and reciprocal response. Therefore, the protocol of gifting etiquette, of returning a favour is wired in the same. In the corporate world, the art of gifting comes with an inherent etiquette that goes a long way in creating a favourable impression and establishing the company’s goodwill. Before setting out to ascertain the goals for gift giving. Identify the purpose of giving a gift. Do you want to applaud employees? Thank clients for their interest? Celebrate an achievement? Celebrate a festival or is it a gift for someone’s wedding. This festive season could well be a make or break one for creating a lasting impression in the corporate set up.

What to gift

Start with ensuring that the recipient’s company policy allows accepting gift. Checking corporate policy will avoid embarrassing situations of having to return your gift and such forth. Even when individual gifts are not allowed, one can always send gifts that can be shared by all the employees of the company such as gourmet gift hampers, library magazine subscriptions etc. Do keep in mind religious, cultural and dietary restrictions. Gifts should not be exaggerated or very expensive, but apt, timely and of superior quality. The kinds of gifts in the corporate sector are no longer limited to organisers or pen sets. Nowadays, a gift can be a spa jaunt, a gadget or even an adventure holiday. The new-age fad is to customise one’s corporate gift and to remember that one size doesn’t fit all!

The best corporate gifts are those that mean something and are useful to the employees and clients. Knowing the client’s preference will ensure that your gift is appreciated and becomes memorable for the right reasons! Knowing what is considered offensive in the client context becomes even more desirable in a global business scenario that we inhabit. Choosing a quality and a thoughtful gift is a long term investment as it directly reflects the company's image. Therefore, it is better to wisely choose and buy quality items that help in brand building, ensure a positive recall of your business and convey the worth and importance of the receiver.

How to gift

Equally important is the way in which the gift is given to the client. Handing over the gift to a courier or office boy is the easy and unimpressive way out. If you choose making a personal delivery there is also a chance to meet the client. Individual delivery also makes your client feel that you truly value and respect him/her. Therefore, rule out the options of courier or using any other delivery service. Make sure that you personally or a representative form the company goes to the extra mile of making a delivery of the gift accompanied with hand-written gift notes or tags. One might send the most luxurious gifts but if forgetting to attach a card with a hand-written note you forget to add that personal touch to the gesture.

Merely pasting a company business card with a printed message conveys a lackadaisical attitude and makes the whole process impersonal. When we talk of corporate gifts packaging the same is not oft deliberated upon. It is extremely important to pay adequate attention to packaging as it enhances the visual appeal of the gift and conveys the effort taken in this makes your corporate gift look appealing at the first look. This shows how much effort one has put into the finer nuances of the art of gifting. One must not overlook the essence of creative packaging of corporate gifts. There are many gift-wrapping services that come in handy at this time of the year to cash in on the chance of making an impression.

Reciprocal gesture

If you are the recipient of the gift, it is incumbent upon you to reciprocate the gesture. It could be in the form of a handwritten ‘thank you’ note or a small gift of acknowledgement from your company’s side. A ‘thank you’ note mentioning the thoughtfulness of the gift and its utility will ensure a lasting relation between two business partners and is usually sent after a day of having received a gift. Passing on the same gift is in bad taste and if found out can lead to a lot of unwanted heartburn between corporates. It is also expected that you do not pass on the same gift to your other clients.

— The writer is a skills trainer

Do’s and Dont’s

• Find out the likes and dislikes of the recipient before rushing into choosing a gift.
• Giving untimely gifts reeks of bad taste.
• Make sure that the gift is within the company budget but is of good quality.
• Ensure that the gift is not flashy or too cumbersome to use.
• Do not give personal items such as apparel etc. in gifts.
• Give neutral gifts to avoid suggesting sexist attitudes.
• Accept a gift graciously and write a handwritten or signed 'thank you' note.
• Sending a virtual acknowledgement on the e-mail is a strict no-no.
• Do not pass on the gift received or express displeasure over the same.

field in focus: clinical research
Follow success through research track
Gauri Chhabra

Careers have become multi-pronged over the course of time. One such off-beat career option that has evolved from a nascent stage and has carved a unique niche for itself is that of clinical research. Clinical research determines the safety and effectiveness of medications, devices, diagnostic products and treatment regimens intended for human use.

These may be used for prevention, treatment, diagnosis or for relieving symptoms of a disease. Clinical trials gained momentum in India in 2003 when it became mandatory for all the clinical trials that are conducted to follow practices in design and approval of collection of the subject data.

Step by step

The process of clinical research involves a linear step-by-step process, the first step of which is a group of investigators conducting study. These investigators can be researchers, professors, medical practitioners and medical specialists.

Clinical research is conducted in various phases and the ultimate purpose of the research is to prioritise safety. Phase one involves human testing that is, in most cases, performed on healthy subjects. Phase two and three test the safety and efficacy of the new drug in comparison with the other drugs. After a drug has been cleared, it may be given a Marketing Authorisation.

Phase four and post-marketing surveillance is the next phase. During this phase, the researchers continue to gain more information on the safety and efficacy of the drug as well as highlight the rare side effects that may only be seen after a significant number of people have used the drug.

Getting in

You can go in for specialised training in clinical research or for clinical research jobs as a part-time diploma course. Undergraduate and post-graduate degree holders in life sciences, including nursing, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology or pharmacy are potential candidates for the entry level positions. Aspiring clinical researchers could pursue medical studies, pharmaceutical studies or life sciences and then enter a doctoral programme in their field of interest.

In case you are interested in the incidence and prevalence of diseases, a doctorate in public health is a good career choice. People who prefer medical research can pursue a doctorate in biological or physical sciences or might consider a post graduate degree in medical science. Post-doctoral training in specialty research area would be available with medical research laboratories and universities.

As a potential candidate, you should also develop oral, written and team based skills needed to analyse potential markets and the ability to communicate findings to decision makers.

The Certificate in Pharmaceutical and Clinical Trials Management is open to all graduate students in the sciences and engineering, part-time students from industry, and post-doctoral fellows. This certificate is also available to those who have already completed their MS and Ph.D. degrees as graduate certificate. The certificate program is designed to introduce students to the management of Clinical Trials. The main objective is to make them analyse the linkage of risk versus benefit in the pharmaceutical industry and businesses. The certificate reviews key aspects of clinical trials design and conduct and provides students with practical skills in communication and leadership skills. This certificate offers students an opportunity to combine management skills with the drug development process. Students will have the opportunity to explore regulatory affairs as a prospective career path. If you have been a professional in pharmaceutical industry for over five years, but are from non-life sciences background, then you can also apply for the above mentioned course. For example, someone involved with clinical science data management or regulatory affairs may be eligible for the certificate only option. You may choose from the following courses: Regulatory Affairs, Concept to Market, Communication and Leadership, Ethics, Colloquium and Intellectual Property.

Course objectives

The objectives of the Certificate in Pharmaceutical and Clinical Trials Management include:

• To apply various bio statistical descriptors and techniques to clinical trial design and use them to interpret results.
• To identify potential sources of bias in clinical trials, and select strategies to eliminate or control for bias
• To understand the developmental pipeline for small molecule and biological drugs, and the economic aspects of small molecular and biological drug development,
• To understand intellectual property and regulatory issues at transitional phases in the development process
• To have a clear understanding of why ethics are important in clinical research and be familiar with the regulatory practices to protect the researcher and the subject.
• To learn about the basic statistical procedures used to analyse data and be able to apply these techniques utilizing a standard statistical package.
• To write clinical trial and IRB protocols.
• To understand the connection between technology and business and how technical work impacts the business of organisations.

Job prospects

Though a niche and nascent field, clinical research offers several forking pathways as career options that include a professional career in the clinical research industry either as a clinical research investigator or a site coordinator at a hospital or CRO Clinical esearch Organisation conducting clinical investigations. Jobs are also available in the pharmaceutical industry, drug development field, medical writing and biostatistics or even as a manager of clinical research business development, clinical projects, clinical operations, regulatory affairs and auditing of clinical trials. Biostatisticians provide guidance for statistical analysis methodology and perform statistical programming, design, and analyses for clinical trial projects.

Programmers and analysts are the IT professionals who design and implement applications in support of clinical research and biostatistics. Bioinformatics scientists assist in the development of software and custom scripts to automate data retrieval, manipulation and analysis, application of statistics, and visualisation tools.

Future focus

For those of you who wish to take up Clinical Research as a career option, the future is on a fast track. India has one of the highest numbers of people afflicted with diseases with genetic diversity. Furthermore, since the country has implemented GCP and has a huge number of highly qualified medical practitioners, a number of global clinical trials and researches in hospitals and clinical sites from across the globe are being conducted here. Most US and European nations are outsourcing clinical trials to India. A number of prominent pharmaceutical companies too are outsourcing business related to clinical research to India.

Additionally, this industry is doubling revenue every two years and the future holds a promise for those who wish to try their luck in this unique marriage of diverse disciplines.

— The writer is a Ludhiana-based career consultant

Institute watch

ICRI Delhi Okhla, Delhi, M.Sc in Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Data Management. PG Diploma in Clinical Research

• Sikkim Manipal University, Ghaziabad M.Sc CRRA, Distance Learning.
• Amity University, Noida PG Diploma in Clinical Data Management, 1 year
• Apeejay Stya Institute for Bio Sciences & Clinical Research, Gurgaon Delhi
• Medvarsity Online Ltd, Hyderabad Fellowship in Clinical Research.
• Lotus Clinical Academy, Pvt. Ltd Bangalore, M .Pharm in Clinical Research
• Focus Institute of Pharms Skills, Bangalore, Certificate Course in Clinical Research.

first person
Scotland a safe study option

Scotland is acknowledged as having one of the world's leading systems of higher education with five of the world’s top 200 universities, an impressive portfolio of globally competitive research, and admired undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, all of which are available to overseas students at competitve fee levels. Prof. Pete Downs, Vice-Chancellor, University of Dundee, Scotland, talks about the opportunities available to Indian students planning to get admission in a university in Scotland. Excerpts:

Better bonuses in offing this Diwali

Employees may expect good bonus payouts from their employers this Diwali, as positive sentiments are trickling in at the companies from a slew of reforms announced by the government amid an improving economic climate in the country, according to experts.

More companies are planning to give out bonus to their employees as compared to last year this festive season, HR professionals have said. These bonuses can come in form of cash payouts as a percentage of the total salary, special festival incentives, gifts and a larger portion of employees’ total variable pay. According to a survey by human resource consultancy MyHiringClub.com, 65 per cent of private sector employers and 95 per cent PSUs are planning to give bonus to their employees this festive season. This is an increase by 12 per cent in private sector and 3 per cent in public sector employees last year.

Among private sector employers, 32 per cent are planning to dole out one-month basic salary to their employees as festival bonus, 29 per cent are considering to give a lump sum fixed amount and 39 per cent plan to give 5-6 per cent of CTC (Cost to Company package) as festival bonus.

In the public sector firms, 63 per cent of employers surveyed are planning to give one month basic salary to their employees as festival bonus and another 37 per cent have plans to give a lump sum fixed amount as festival bonus.

“In current situation, maximum employers are paying around 4-6 per cent of annual CTC as festival bonus,” Psyche Panacea COO Vikas Vats said. Ripples Consultancy Services MD and CEO Rishi Raman said, “It is like sharing the profits with the real worker, who actually contribute increasing the company’s market value.

Some of corporate start giving Diwali bonus but the gap is huge if we see the statics percentage only maximum to 10 per cent of companies started or already giving.”

“In the past two years we have seen lots of change happening in terms of employee benefit structure. For sure soon these bonuses will definitely encourage the prospective of candidates,” he added.

Besides, companies in the sectors like IT and IT-enabled, financial services and automobile are planning to shell out festive bonuses to employees. The trend is likely to be encouraging in sectors like auto and retail which mostly record impressive sales during the festival period. For several such companies, the festive sales often contribute 30-40 per cent of their annual sales. HR experts also believe that hiring activities is likely to be improved from the next month after a tough job market.

Thus, industry experts believe firms will give out bonuses or variable pay hikes for retaining employees. — Agencies

Employability programme

Indian division of Sweden's research-intensive company Saab India has launched an employability enhancement and skill development programme for Indian College Engineering students. The Saab Diploma Employment Enhancement Program (DEEP) is designed to bridge the gap between industry's requirements and the Indian technical education system. The first pilot classes in collaboration with Indian Technical Institutes will start in December 2012.

The six-month Saab DEEP programme is designed to help engineering students learn and hone the right mix of technical and soft skills while they are still in college. Students of different branches of the diploma will follow different, specifically designed tracks. The programmes will have an initial focus on mechanical engineering. Subsequently, the programmes will focus on aviation engineering and automotive engineering.

The curriculum involves classroom training and a two-month on-the-job training and internship. The programme will involve 100 per cent placements for students in partnering Indian companies and Swedish companies in India.

Saab has shortlisted institutions for collaboration for the programme in Gudivada and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh. Both places were short listed due to the number of polytechnic / diploma and engineering courses available and taking into account the number of students graduating every year in these two regions. Saab is already active in Andhra Pradesh with on-going cooperation with Mahindra Satyam and establishment of the Saab India Technology Centre in Hyderabad.

According to Head of Saab India, Lars-Olof Lindgren, “Saab India’s DEEP initiative intends to fill an important gap that will result in a stronger, more technically proficient workforce. Our partnership with the educational institutes is an important step towards our goal of creating a chain of technology skills that span from institutes in Sweden to students in India.” The initial training of teachers will take place in Sweden. The class will be imparted in a 3-month theory and 3-month practical module, the training will involve a mix of instructor-led training, workshops, hands-on practice in the labs, assignments and mini-projects and assessments. The Saab DEEP programme will create industry relevant competencies like ability to apply knowledge; design skills; problem solving skills; technical competence; ability to work in multidisciplinary teams; communication skills; sensitivity towards global, societal and environmental issues; sensitivity towards ethical and professional issues and readiness for lifelong learning. During the course it will also be interaction between both teachers and students in India and relevant counterparts in Sweden.

New business school in Mysore
Geetu Vaid

“Research-based curriculum, faculty with a global vision and exposure along with an added focus on socially meaningful projects should be the key focus of management courses if the employability quotient of MBAs in our country has to be increased,” said Rajiv K Sinha, Professor of Marketing and the Lonnie Ostrom Chair in Business at the W.P. Carey School of Business, Arizona State University and the Dean of Myra School of Business at the launch of the campus of this new B-school in Mysore earlier this week.

The Rs 14-crore futuristic campus based on Tadao Ando’s philosophy of creating architectural spaces in which one can experience intellectual stimulation was inaugurated by HDFC Chairman, Deepak Parekh. Setting up a global ambience with unique concepts like floating classrooms and a fluid open design, the campus complements the vision to impart knowledge through exploration and discovery. Putting this vision in words Sunil Sharma, Director, IMF regional training Institute, Singapore and member of the governing board said, "Public and private partnership is the call for the day. Corporates are no longer dependent on overstretched governments to solve problems. They are themselves coming forward to design innovative solutions and find answers. It implies breakdown of academic silos— combined technical knowledge, fostering social entrepreneurship and there is a need to inculcate entrepreneurial spirit in the budding managers. Faculties will cover the subjects using the 'Immersion model' through which the students gain an in-depth understanding of a module before commencing the second one. Also, the student along with the support of the faculty is encouraged to research on real-corporate scenarios to relate to the curriculum in a better manner.

The new school will offer two-year full-time PGDM and one-year Post Graduate Programme for Executives (PGPX) courses from the 2013 academic session.

Myra has been set up by a group of eminent academicians led by Prof. Shalini Urs, an internationally recognised Information Scientist, a Fulbright scholar, and Prof. Shrijay Devaraj Urs, a veteran academician, UNDP consultant, and educational administrator and Professor at Institute of Development Studies, University of Mysore with over three and a half decades of experience. The governing board of the B-school comprises global industry experts and academicians like Arjun Malhotra, CEO and Chairman of Headstrong Corporation, Andrew Atzert, COO, Aresty Institute of Executive Education, Wharton School University of Pennsylvania, Sunil Sharma, Director of International Monetary Fund (IMF) Regional Training Institute, Prof. Noshir Contractor, Kellogg School of Business and Tony Kirton, CEO and Partner, Nuerozone CC Cape Town among others.

It has established relationships with over 25 leading corporate houses in India. These relationships will be optimally utilised for absorbing curriculum from the industry, for guest lectures, campus placements and internships etc.

The B-school has also partnered with WP Carey School of Business of Arizona State University, ranked No.1 for research productivity in high impact business journals, to offer executive management programmes for working professionals.

Happiness @ work
Gems of ancient wisdom
Unworthy can’t hold on for long

Don’t fret if some work isn’t getting done as a wrong official is in the seat of power. While the ones, who occupy a seat because they know their job, are there for a long innings, the ones who have risen by immoral means would be back in the pavilion sooner than later.

Towards the close of the fifth century AD, Vainya Gupta usurped the throne of Magadha from his cousin Narasimha Gupta Baladitya with the help of Huna leader Toramana. While Vainya Gupta ruled as Toramana’s puppet, Baladitya waited for the right moment to regain his kingdom. As soon as Toramana died, Baladitya made his move. Vainya Gupta was never seen in Magadha again.

Bhairon Nath, tantric Gorak Nath’s disciple, was so stuck by Trikuta’s beauty that he wanted her as his wife. As he pursued her relentlessly, Trikuta hid in a cave — that later became renowned as Adh Kunwari — for nine months. When Bhairon caught up with her, she transformed herself into Goddess Kali, cut off his head and walked into another cave. The Bhairon Temple stands where Bhairon’s head fell and the place Trikuta chose to meditate in is called Vaishno Devi — after Vaishnavi, the name Lord Rama gave Trikuta. As nurse Maham Anga had once saved Akbar’s life, she knew that the Mughal Emperor wouldn’t say no to her. So she placed her son Adham Khan in the place General Bairam Khan had vacated to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca. During the Mughal conquest over Malwa, Adham not only kept all the gains to himself, but also mistreated the civilians. Then, he killed Chief Minister Atkah Khan. Enraged, Akbar had him thrown down the parapet to his death.

Making the most of the death of Haider Ali, the Dalwai (Chief Minister) of Mysore, the British — under General Matthews — occupied Bidanur, a fort near Mangalore. When Haider’s son Tipu Sultan defeated the Brits in 18 days, they sought safe passage. Tipu imposed only one condition: Nothing valuable should be taken from the fort. But on their way out, the British soldiers emptied the treasury. As soon as the burglary was detected, Tipu took Matthews prisoner.

In contrast, the worthy have better retention. The nobles in Vaishali were in a quandary while deciding over the fate of a stunning dancer who was spotted under a mango tree. After naming her Amrapali, the nobles — seeking her company — started fighting with each other. Amrapali wisely said: As I belong to Vaishali, I cannot belong to any one person.

Later, Amrapali refused to surrender her rights to host the Buddha in exchange for “all the gold she wanted”.

Only the ones with roots can endure the storm.

— Sai R. Vaidyanathan

The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com

CAREER HOTLINE
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Healthcare management courses in USA

Q. I am a doctor and I’ve done my MBBS from Tianjin medical university, China. I wish to pursue a career related to healthcare management and I want to do it from USA or a university affiliated to a US university. Please give me some details of institutes offering this course and what are the requirements of the institutes?

— Dr. Preet Aarsi

A. Hospital and healthcare managers have a wide range of responsibilities that cover strategic planning, financial planning and human resource planning and personnel management, maintenance, purchase and control of supplies etc. While a majority of courses are meant for medical graduates with experience in medicine while some institutions offer postgraduate programmes which are open to all graduates.

Being a doctor gives you a definite advantage in this booming sector.

Hospital and healthcare managers have a wide range of responsibilities that cover strategic planning, financial planning and human resource planning and personnel management, maintenance of buildings, purchase and control of supplies etc in many medical settings including hospitals, health insurance companies, and nursing homes.

Being a practicing doctor would give you a definite advantage in this booming sector.

Here are some of the top-ranked health care management schools in the US:

• University of Michigan--Ann Arbor, MI
• University of Minnesota--Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN
• University of North Carolina —Chapel Hill, NC
• University of Pennsylvania (Wharton), Philadelphia, PA
• University of Alabama—Birmingham, AL
• Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
• Northwestern University (Kellogg), Evanston, IL
• University of Washington, Seattle, WA
• Rush University, Chicago, IL
• St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO
• Boston University, Boston, MA
• Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
• U.S. Army - Baylor University, Fort Sam Houston, TX
• Columbia University, New York, NY
• Cornell University (Sloan), Ithaca, NY
• Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

I would also suggest you look at Public Health as an area of study and operation.

Scope in MSc agriculture economy

Q. I am an Economics (Hons) graduate from Panjab University. Now I want to peruse MSc., Agriculture Economics from Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana. Will you please guide me about the scope of career after completing this degree? I am also interested in government service.

— Harleen Singh

A. Achieving food security is the overriding goal of our agricultural policy. To achieve this goal, we need not only agricultural scientists but also agricultural economists who can apply the principles of economics to ensure greater productivity in agriculture. As growth in this sector is a result of greater liberalisation and investment, the demand for agricultural economists is on the rise.

Besides land appraisal, crop grading, marketing and sales, an agricultural economist is involved with farm management, co-operative management, farm utilities, custom services, wholesale and retail marketing of agricultural products, priority setting for research, how much to invest, assessment of returns on investment i.e. all those activities that ensure that agricultural productivity grows at planned rate of growth. Job prospects are promising. There are openings in cooperatives, banking & insurance sector, private firms in the agricultural sector, foreign embassies, NGOs and other donor agencies, Ministry of Agriculture, Indian Economic Service as also in the field of research and academics.

Does PTU offer part-time MTech programme?

Q. I completed my BTech from Punjab Technical University this year in Information Technology stream. Currently I’m working as a software developer in a company. I am very interested in doing further studies in this field but due to some reasons I can't go for full time course. So I’ve decided to go for Part time M.Tech from Punjab University or Deemed University. Does it provide part time M.Tech?

— Amarjeet Kaur

A. Yes, PTU does offer MTech (Part-Time) programmes for people with relevant work-experience.

The eligibility criteria for admission in MTech. (Part Time) course is a regular B.E. / B. Tech. degree of PTU or its equivalent with at least 50 per cent in aggregate, preferably with a valid GATE score. You can get all the details on: ttp://www.ptu.ac.in/mtech1.aspx

Regular MTech will be a wise choice

Q. I have completed my BTech in mechanical engineering. I am keen to pursue MTech in Automobile Engineering. Please guide me regarding colleges which offer the same including through correspondence.

— Capt. Ashutosh Sood

A. A random list of universities that you may consider are: Indian Institute of Technology, Madras; International Institute of Information Technology: School of Interdisciplinary Science & Technology, Mah, VIT University, Bharath Institute of Science & Technology, Chennai, National Institutes of Technology, Srinagar

Manipal University, SASTRA University, Thanjavur (www.sastra.edu), Amity University, Noida (www.amity.edu), Jadavpur University, Kolkata;

Anna University, Chennai, M S Ramaiah School of Advanced Studies, Bangalore

I’m not sure of the credibility of distance MTech programmes. If possible, please go in for a regular MTech as you may need good lab facilities and ongoing guidance. However, if you just don’t have an option, you could possibly look at some colleges in your city that offer MTech evening programmes which are meant for working professionals. These will give you flexibility to take classes after work-hours besides using the lab and other facilities like workshops and library at your convenience. None of which be possible if you pursue an MTech in distance mode.

You could check out the Work Integrated Learning Programmes offered by Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani (www.bits-pilani.ac.in)

NEWS BOARD

MoU for MBA course

Indian School of Business and Finance, ISBF, an Affiliate Centre of the University of London, signed an agreement with the City University of Seattle for collaboration on offering a US accredited MBA degree in India. The students will be taught by faculty from the University of London and City University of Seattle and also have an option to complete the programme in India or at the Seattle campus.

McNulty Prize for Aspire head

Amit Bhatia, CEO of Aspire, has been awarded the John P. McNulty Prize by Aspen Institute India and US. A committee of judges, including Madeleine Albright, Olara Otunnu, Shashi Tharoor and Anne McNulty selected Bhatia, in recognition of his impact in training over 50,000 students from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds to be English-fluent, tech-savvy, problem-solving new recruits and ready to fuel India’s new economy.

“By teaching the skills to take rural and semi-urban youth from education to employability, Aspire is democratising opportunity in the world’s largest democracy,” said Anne McNulty.

The McNulty Prize seeks to galvanise efforts to address the foremost social, economic and political challenges of our time by recognising the very best in high-impact work that Fellows from the Aspen Global Leadership Network undertake as part of their Fellowship. This work is assessed on creativity, impact and sustainability. — TNS

COURSE CRUISING

BITS management programme

Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, invites applications for admission to MBA Programme at Pilani Campus. The programme involves three semesters of rigorous classroom training coupled with provision for six-month exposure to industry through structured and evaluative internship.

Eligibility: BE/B.Tech in engineering disciplines from any recognised university or any integrated first degree of BITS. Candidates should have obtained a minimum of 60 per cent aggregate marks in qualifying degree.

BITS, Pilani will use CAT 2012 Scores for short-listing candidates for its MBA programme

How to apply: Eligible candidates may apply through the prescribed application form available online at www.bitsadmission.com and take a printout of the filled form. The completed application form along with the proof of fee payment of Rs 1000 should be sent to Admissions Officer

BITS, Pilani 333 031 (Rajasthan) INDIA

Deadline: December 10, 2012.

Check out:

www.bitsadmission.com.

ISM

Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad, is inviting applications for its AICTE-approved management programme for 2013-2015 session.

Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree after Plus II in any discipline from a recognised institution, with at least 50 per cent marks in aggregate or equivalent CGPA (45 per cent in case of candidates belonging to SC, ST and DA categories). For Honours graduates the aggregate will include marks of both Honours and Pass Papers.

Candidates appearing for the final bachelor's degree/equivalent qualification examination can also apply. Preference would be given to candidates having engineering degree or having PG qualification in any discipline.

Selection: Applicant shall have to appear CAT - 2012. Candidates short-listed on the basis of CAT score will be called for Group Discussion and Interview for final selection.

Seats: 62

How to apply: Application fee of Rs 2000 (Rs 1000 for SC/ST and PD candidates) should be paid through a Demand Draft drawn in favour of Registrar, Indian School of Mines and payable at Dhanbad, and should be submitted along with a print out of the filled-in online application form and necessary documents to the Deputy Registrar (Exam & Academic), Indian School of Mines, Dhanbad - 828206, Jharkhand.

Online Application Form Submission System will be available at ISM, Dhanbad website from January 14, 2013 to February 22, 2013.

Deadline: March 1, 2013.

Check out:

www.ismdhanbad.ac.in

Nursing courses

Applications have been invited by Commissioner of Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy, Chennai for admission to Diploma in Nursing Therapy (DNT) and Diploma in Integrated Pharmacy (DIP) Courses of Academic Year 2012-13 at Arignar Anna Govt. Hospital of Indian Medicine Campus, Arumbakkam, Chennai

Eligibility:

Candidates should have passed in all subjects in Plus II of the Higher Secondary Course examination conducted by the Tamil Nadu Higher Secondary State Board or the Senior Secondary School Examination under CBSE Pattern or equivalent examination with the following group of subjects in one and the same attempt.

n Maths, physics, chemistry and biology; (or)

n Physics, chemistry, botany and zoology; (or)

n Physics, chemistry, biology with any other subject.

Candidates who have passed in vocational system and private candidates are NOT eligible to apply for the courses.

How to apply: Application forms can be obtained either by hand or by post from the following centres on submitting a DD for Rs 350 in favour of Director of Indian Medicine and Homoeopathy ,Chennai-106.

Govt. Siddha Medical College, Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli District.

Govt. Siddha Medical College, Anna Hospital Campus, Arumbakkam Chennai 106.

Govt. Homeopathy Medical College, Thirumangalam, Madurai District.

Govt. Ayurveda Medical College, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari District

Candidates can also download the application form from website: www.tnhealth.org

Deadline: November 15, 2012

Check out: www.tnhealth.org

SCHOLARSHIP ROUNDUP

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship

Students who have been accepted for a master’s, PhD or engineering course in France can apply for the French ministry of Foreign and European affairs run Eiffel Excellence Scholarship programme for international students at Rouen Business School.

Eligibility:

• Bachelor degree, you should be able to apply for our MSc programmes.
• Five-year master’s degree or a four-year degree with experience
• If you have a university degree and at least three years professional experience you should be able to apply for the MBA

FORTNIGHTLY QUIZ 425

1. Name the superstorm that battered the US east coast recently.

2. Who founded the newspaper National Herald?

3. Name India’s permanent representative to the United Nations.

4. Who is the only sitting US President to have voted early in the presidential poll?

5. Which is the biggest and most populous district in Himachal Pradesh?

6. Where, in Himachal Pradesh, is the world’s highest polling station situated?

7. Who is India’s richest man for the fifth straight year, with wealth of $ 21 billion, according to Forbes magazine?

8. Name the Patiala batsman who hit a double century on his debut in a Ranji Trophy match recently.

9. In which state is Bir-Billing, famous for international paragliding championship, situated?

10. Who won the Indian F1 Grand Prix recently?

— Tarun Sharma

Winners of quiz 424: The first prize by draw of lots goes to Arindam Kalra, class VIII-A, Roll No. 26, OP Jindal Modern School,

O P Jindal Marg, Hisar Pin Code - 125005

Second: Pahulpreet Kaur, Class V-A, Divine Light International School, Shamsher Nagar, Sirhind Pin Code - 140406

Third: Atharv Arya, Class IX-C, Mount Carmel School, Sector 47-B, Chandigarh Pin Code - 160047

Answers to quiz 424: European Union; Fifty; Hillary Mantel; Vidhan Soudha; 80th; Malala Yousufzai; Jammu and Kashmir; Kaziranga National Park; Saina Nehwal; $ 330,000

Cash awards of Rs 400, 300 and 200 are given to the first, second and third prize winners, respectively. These are sent at the school address.

Note: Kindly mention the pincode of your place on the letter/postcard to facilitate the delivery of the prize money.

Answers can also be sent at quiz@tribunemail.com

Name……………….………….............................................

Class....………….......….…….........................................

School address .......................................................