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| JOBS & CAREERS |
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Structural engineering
smart strategy: how to get noticed at work
field in focus: media & entertainment
Dr Padmakumar Nair, Director, LM Thapar School of Management, Dera Bassi
COLLEGES&CONTESTS
course chat
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on boards
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Build a sturdy future
Gauri Chhabra
With a spurt in construction activity and with buildings growing bigger and taller there is now a need to design them in a manner that they can withstand the test of time and vagaries of nature. This is precisely what falls under the purview of Structural Engineering. Structural engineering is a subset of Civil Engineering concerned with the engineering design and behaviour of buildings, bridges, machines, and constructed facilities. It has, as its edifice, the principles of structural analysis, continuum mechanics, structural dynamics, and fracture mechanics to predict the response of structural elements supporting loads. It encompasses the end-to-end engineering structure, from conceptualisation and design, through construction and management to rehabilitation, demolition, and forensic investigation and conservation. Work profile
Without the skills and technical knowledge of structural engineers, the buildings which we inhabit and spend our time in nowadays could potentially cause serious injury or even death. During the lifetime of a typical building, various stresses and strains test its physical composition and structural engineers ensure that the structure is strong and flexible enough to remain safe and sturdy. Without the input of a structural engineer, buildings may twist, bend, or vibrate with disastrous consequences. It is also the responsibility of a structural engineer to make sure that older buildings are made safe.
Getting in
Getting into this field requires long years of arduous study. Higher maths, such as geometry, trigonometry and calculus all play an important part in excelling in this area. So if you are interested in getting into this field then you must take classes that emphasise mathematics and science such as algebra, geometry, biology and physics before completing high school. After BTech, you can go in for MTech (Structural Engineering) that provides thorough knowledge of design stage to construction and completion that is a two-year full time programme. Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College, Ludhiana, started an MTech course in Structural and Geotechnical Engineering in 2000, so that proper specialised manpower can be produced. The Civil Engineering Department is giving consultancy services to private and public sector for structural engineering and geotechnical engineering through its consultancy cell by highly specialised Faculty. The Civil Engineering department has started an awareness programme for general public in association with TATA TISCON by proving many ready-to-use structural drawing and building tips in the form of pamphlets.
Career pathways
Studying to be a structural engineer isn’t for the intellectually lazy. This is a challenging field of study; but one with great rewards. It carries with it the satisfaction of being able to create something which makes a difference in society and individual lives. There are several pathways to get ahead in this field: Project Management: The most linear progression from being a structural engineer is to work as a project manager. You would be working closely with clients, architects, contractors and other professionals on construction plans, developing design ideas, using computer aided design(CAD), investigating the properties of materials like glass, steel and concrete, and advising on which may be most suitable for the job, working out the loads and stresses on different parts of a structure like the foundation, beams, arches and walls, inspecting unsafe buildings and recommending options for repairs or demolition. Besides this making sure that the projects meet legal guidelines, environmental directives, and health and safety requirements, preparing bids for tenders and supervising project teams and giving progress reports to clients and senior managers are also in the work domain of a project manager. Forensic Department: You can dovetail your structural engineering degree and get a job in the forensic department where you will be
responsible to conduct field investigations and analyse failures involving all types of structures and construction problems including residential, commercial and industrial properties, determine the cause, origin, and extent of structural failures, water intrusions, construction defects and building system failures including envelope, roof, wall and glazing. Your work schedule may include foundation settlement investigations, structural assessments, site evaluations where you may be required to analyse failures in buildings and other infrastructure systems by conducting site visits and applying engineering principles and practices in accordance with codes and industry. Sustainability consultant: As a structural engineer you can have an enormous impact on the environment through your work. You would need to come up with new and exciting ways to build environmentally-friendly structures. As a sustainability consultant you would be consulting builders as to which material should be used - the environmental impact of using concrete or timber, the ability to reuse materials at the end of the life of a building, using appropriate materials and resources for the usage of the structure to ensure minimum waste and maximum efficiency, and using computer simulations to predict how structures will react under different conditions, for example high winds or earth tremors. Seismology department: Another avenue is working with the seismology experts. A structural engineer in this role can not only play a vital role in earthquake-prone areas where he can help improve the evolution of earthquake-resistant design of traditional and engineered structures, but can also make a huge difference in designing buildings that can withstand earthquakes and minimise the damage and destruction caused. Heritage buildings: Of late there has been an intense need to strike the right balance between the
con?icting objectives of conservation and commercial development. Some ancient monuments have been transformed into modern hotels where the job of the structural engineer is to avoid unnecessary intrusion into historic structures while balancing current needs for public safety and development. This creates further demands on creativity and problem-solving skills. Your job would not simply be that of ‘protector of heritage assets’ but would involve the challenges of integrating new with old and developing reasoned arguments for proposed changes. Work hours: You would normally work between 35 and 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday, with a combination of office work and site visits. In case you are fond of travelling, it is one profession that can take you around the world, depending on your employer and the nature of the projects you are working on.
Institute watch
(M.Tech in Structural Engineering):
Who will hire you?
Difference between an architect and a structural engineer
An architect makes the drawing (plan) of the building based on location and its functional requirement and follows standard architectural practice to optimally utilise the space. For example position of master bedroom with respect to other rooms.Therefore, it is typically a line diagram to demarcate the space.
On the other hand, a structural engineer works on the line diagram (plan) supplied by an architect and decides the amount of steel and concrete grade required to keep it safe and durable. In brief, an architect creates a space whereas a structural engineer builds the space which is safe and durable under adverse conditions during its life span.
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smart strategy: how to get noticed at work Jappreet Sethi Have your talent, potential and resourcefulness on the job gone unnoticed while those of others have been rewarded? Have others of equal experience risen on the corporate ladder much faster than you? If the answer to these questions is in the affirmative then it means that you have probably not mastered the fine art of increasing your visibility at the workplace. Adeptness at getting noticed at work in a positive way is a major professional resource. Here are some ways in which you can increase your “visibility” in your office: Guard against self-promotion
This does not mean that you should get busy advertising yourself, which would only make you unpopular. That said, you still need to become more prominent — albeit diplomatically — with the authorities. You do this by indicating that you are ready to contribute to the business in more responsible ways. Obviously, a great deal of tact is involved in this. The last thing you want is to find yourself labeled as over-ambitious. Getting noticed at work begins with learning more about:
After familiarising yourself with these aspects, your credibility quotient when approaching the managerial echelons will increase multifold.
Experience speaks the loudest
However, just knowing how a business works is often not enough — you need hands-on experience, too. Lack of this will show up, especially if an opportunity is given to you to prove yourself on the job. However, it may not be the best idea to experiment with untested management theories in a ‘live’ work situation. The best way to gain experience is by:
Such work gives you a chance to acquire managerial and general people-related skills under non-threatening circumstances.
Effective communication skills
The degree of your communication skills has a direct bearing on the image and potential that you project. Any business will value the presence of an employee who has good communication skills. These are most evident in one-on-one interactions and written communiqués (such as emails or even memos). The art of effective communication does not depend on getting noticed with the use of impressive words. Rather, it is reflected in your ability to get a point across as concisely, politely and clearly as possible. Trying to get noticed at work by razzle-dazzling others with impressive terminology doesn’t work. That, and the use of complicated sentences, will only mark you as a snob. That’s not what you need to get noticed at work for. Improved communication skills are useful while outlining your career objectives to your superiors, too. If you feel that your verbal technique needs working on, find some useful reference material to study and also observe how effective communicators around you handle themselves.
Creative input – A sure attention grabber
A tactical suggestion at the right time and under the right circumstances can work wonders. To get noticed at work, such a suggestion should not be trite or superficial. It should have a genuine bearing on a situation. If your input is valid in the context of overall business goals, you will get noticed. A suggestion should not be centered only what you could do to resolve a given situation. A potential manager, team leader or supervisor can never be a one-man/woman show. The ideal suggestion involves team work.
Teamwork and the ‘common touch’
Have you taken steps to get noticed as potential managerial material? Well, now your interactions with colleagues will be evaluated by your superiors. You will be judged on:
These are the traits that you get noticed at work for. The canvas on which you paint your new job profile is the shop-floor, not the director’s cabin.
Keeping track of the highlights
Finally, keep a log of your work — especially the kind performed over and above the call of duty. This is both for your own reference as well as a record on which to make a pitch for promotion. You have the right of getting noticed at work. However, make sure that this is done discreetly. Most managers would be more than willing to give you a monthly appointment to review your performance. This is the best time to outline your professional goals, too. Your objective in getting noticed for possible managerial post in an organisation also matters. If the idea is plain one-upmanship, it will show up as a black mark on your record. The idea should always be to be an asset to the company and be justly rewarded for being a valuable
resource. — The writer is a Human Resources and business strategy professional
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field in focus: media & entertainment Usha Albuquerque
And it is not just RJs and VJs for whom opportunities are growing. As India catches up on new channels for media and entertainment, there are ever increasing avenues in the world of information and entertainment. These include: Video Jockeys (VJs)
Among the most popular TV shows are the music programmes with live VJ's. Of course for this, it is as important to look good as it is to sound good, which doesn't make a difference for DJs and RJs. Now, VJs also anchor reality shows, host countdown shows, contests and comic series along with live television programmes and chat shows.
Disc Jockeys (DJs)
A disc jockey can work with radio, television, for entertainment shows and at clubs and discotheques. A disc jockey presents a selection of music that's in tune with the rhythm of the audience. A new and important segment which has opened up in India is community radio stations developed by local communities and often funded by NGOs and educational institutions. Starting with Anna FM which was India's first campus "community" radio station, launched in 2004 and run by Anna University, Chennai, there are now over 125 community radio stations in the country at present with the government setting aside funds for up to 500 stations over the next 10 years.
The work
The work in this field covers a mixed bag of music, news, infotainment and current affairs, and so you need to be well versed in handling them all. If you are presenting a music-based programme you must be well acquainted with the music you are presenting. This calls for prior homework and preparation. Interactive dial-in programmes where RJs get to interact with their listeners are amongst the most popular. The trick lies in engaging or "connecting' with your audience with a clever mix of content, style and humour that lures them to tune in again and again.
Getting in
There are no specific eligibility criteria or training courses for being a Radio Jockey or Disc Jockey, although most channels prefer to take on a graduate. If you have a good voice, the gift of the gab, can talk non-stop and like to lose yourself in the world of music, this off-beat career can open a new world of opportunities for you. From time to time, television and radio channels invite young aspirants for VJ /RJ hunts. AIR (All India Radio) conducts auditions from time to time and these are announced on the radio or advertised in the national dailies. Usually there is a written test too. You can also apply directly to a channel for an audition and start learning on the job. You might have to undergo a written test for selection. In addition, a VJ must have good presentation skills and screen presence as well. There are short-term certificate and diploma courses and some mass communication courses that offer Radio Jockeying or Disc Jockeying as part of their syllabus. Some well-known DJs have opened their own training schools. Personality enhancement courses and language course can also equip one in becoming a RJ or VJ. But more than training, to be a good RJ or VJ you need a good voice, a strong vocabulary, coupled with good diction. Training in voice modulation can certainly take you places, and an innate ear and interest in music is another definite prerequisite. Moreover, knowledge of acoustics and sound recording and mixing can be a major help. VJs need a strong presence onscreen. In addition, a diploma or degree in acting, theatre or dance goes a long way. A DJ should have a strong understanding of the latest trends in music and what people like to listen to or dance to. Keeping up with new trends and sound tracks released internationally is part of the job. Of course some technical knowledge of mixing and handling the console along with stage presence can go a long way for a DJ, and working with an established name definitely helps to learn the ropes. Like the VJ the DJ is often called upon to be a showman too - interacting with the crowd, and literally getting them to “dance” to your tunes!
Where are the jobs?
With the advent of so many private radio channels, there is an increasing demand for new RJs. Moreover, once you get established as an RJ and people get to hear your voice, you can get a lot of other assignments and contracts. RJs and VJs can get called for doing voice-overs for advertisements, documentaries, etc., for CD-ROMs, computer games, and commercial films. Even audio magazines, online news channels and documentaries require experienced persons adept in voice modulation. They can be called by organizations to act as Masters of Ceremonies and for compering live shows and events. DJs can work at discotheques and nightclubs; restaurants and hotels. They can also work at music stores. Often, DJ's are invited to host live shows and events, including big parties, fashion and awards shows. Apart from this, professional RJs and DJs also keep conducting workshops for training those that have potential. One good thing about the profession of radio jockeying or even disc jockeying and video jockeying is that there are no regular working hours. Moreover, one can pursue other careers at the same time. RJs and VJs start at anything between ~20,000 and 30,000 per month, depending on the programmes they have in hand and the company they are working for. An RJ could be working three to four days a week, or even once a week. However, other projects such as voice-overs or compering can fetch them additional income. Senior RJs make around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh in a year. Depending on the nightlife of the city, a DJ can start on earning anything between Rs 5000 and Rs 10,000 per night in discotheques and nightclubs. The pay increases with one's skills and the market condition and label/club/music composer one is working with, while experienced DJs can command up to Rs 50,000-Rs 1,00,000 for a single musical programme or event. Fame comes early to those who are talented and the successful ones can make good money, but be warned, though: this career isn't all whoopee! Not everyone makes it big - you also have to work crazy hours and late nights, and be at work while the rest of the world is out partying. — The writer is Director, Career Smart, New Delhi
Radio Jockey
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Ace that interview
The mere mention of the word ‘interview’is enough to make a person apprehensive and nervous, and if it happens to be a job interview then the scale of anxiety is much higher. So if you have a job interview lined up sometime soon, remember that thorough preparation is the perfect antidote for nervousness. Here are some tips that will come in handy while preparaing for an interview:
Use the STAR method to guide your answers. This simple formula ensures that you accurately describe your experiences and highlight the results they produced. The STAR method follows like this : S: The situation-describe it, T: The task or problem – what dilemma or problem did you face ? A: The action- what action did you take to handle the situation ? R: The result- what was the result of your action ? Make sure that all the experiences you narrate include these FOUR areas. n Do not get involved in conversation with other aspirants around you because everyone gets prepared according to his/her resources available, which could be entirely different than yours. Therefore, discussion with other candidates may leave you confused.
Key Pointers
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New paradigms of management education
The rapidly changing business scenario makes it imperative for management education to also evolve, adapt and restructure its focus to deliver professionals who are competent to fit into the new and changing business set ups. Dr Padmakumar Nair, Director of LM Thapar School of Management, and an eminent researcher and management consultant of international repute, talks about the changing paradigms of management education in an interaction at the new campus in Dera Bassi. Excerpts: What are the key principles that are needed to train ‘new-age’ managers? B-schools need a more inclusive, sustainable and humanistic approach for imparting management education to train ‘new- age’ managers. The need is to train professionals who are adept at using sustainable and ethical practices and create wealth in a sustainable way. There is a need to inculcate consultative problem-solving skills wherein the professionals have the ability to reframe problems to find solutions that are practical. This is more important than just teaching the fundamentals of finance. How can this be worked out? Science, practice and philosophy are the three cornerstones of a sound curriculum. These three can be included by giving students a thorough grounding in the business fundamentals; providing them first-hand experience of real life problems in a business setting through industry interface; and by creating sensitisation about their inner self and theory of life. In the present-day scenario, management education cannot be viewed in isolation. For this reason, we impart lessons to our students in history, culture and literature to help them develop an understanding which goes beyond the conventional management education based on Western textbooks. What do you feel is lacking in the current management training modules in India? There is not much focus on social entrepreneurship in management education. This is very important in the current scenario as businesses have to be beneficial for all stakeholders and not just be money minting soul less ventures. Another point is that professionals are not trained for a consultative approach. These limitations can seriously handicap a professional in his career growth in the current business ecosystem. What is your vision for LMTSM? Based on the fundamentals of ethical decision making, inclusive human resources management, sustainable strategy development and entrepreneurial growth, this management school seeks to develop a new Indian business model by combining multiple economic and social models with technology as a backbone to create strategies for success. We are in the business of selling dreams and buying challenges. The aim is to train students in not only occupying jobs, but also in creating them through a spirit of social and commercial entrepreneurship . We are in the process of setting up a venture lab with incubation facility for potential entrepreneurs.
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F1 car designed
The MRV3 formula 1 racing car has five-point seat belt for safety, four hydraulic disc brakes using BOSCH TMC and Taylor steering system. The chassis can bear a load of 500 kg and front impact of 2000 km. The body of the car is made of fibre glass and has hollow circular pipes to reduce weight and improve strength. This lightweight vehicle is equipped with driver fitness tester, which does not allow a person to drive the car under the influence of alcohol. Weighing only 180 kg, the vehicle has a single cylinder diesel engine with 269cc of displacement, 3.7 HP using automatic transmission with auto clutch CVT. The engineers have customised the reduction box to achieve high efficiency and a mileage of 123 km/l. The Shell Eco Marathon is a unique combination that challenges students to design, build and drive the most energy-efficient car. At three events around the world, hundreds of teams compete to travel the farthest distance on the least amount of energy. This is Manav Rachna’s third foray at the Shell Eco Marathon. Petrol was the fuel of choice in initial years, but this time diesel is being used to drive the vehicle at the marathon.
Platform for innovators
Knimbus, a cloud-based platform that facilitates researchers across the globe, has instituted the “Knimbus Young Innovator” (KYI) Award. The Knimbus Young Innovator(s) shall receive a scholarship to take their idea forward and an opportunity to showcase their work to more than 1600 institutes using Knimbus across the globe. Knimbus has associated with technology fests of institutes such as Techfest 2014 IIT Bombay, Shaastra 2014 IIT Madras, Tryst 2014 IIT Delhi, Bitotsav 2014 BITS Ranchi and CSI Student Chapter 2014 UPES. Knimbus has received innovation ideas and project submissions from 838 teams (over 6,600 participants) from more than 643 engineering and technology institutes. These submissions have application in varied areas including robotics, aerodynamics, biotech, sustainable engineering, etc. The 20 most popular submissions by February 20, 2013 will be shortlisted for a review. A panel of judges shall choose five of these submissions on criteria such as innovation, impact etc. to present their idea at the finals of the KYI Award. Knimbus will connect the ‘Knimbus Young Innovator’ with industry experts and successful entrepreneurs which would be helpful in honing the winning idea and taking it forward on the execution path. Knimbus aims to bring further awareness and interest in research amongst India’s youth through this initiative. Young innovators will be encouraged to further research and publish their ideas, discover information and collaborate with other innovators through Knimbus and gain visibility in the knowledge community. Scholars can submit their own ideas or view and vote on others simply by signing up on Knimbus.com.
ASIS lecture series
Anglo Schools International Services (ASIS) — a new federation of British Boarding Schools, is organised a “Meet the Principal” Lecture Tour in New Delhi on last week. The tour is to educate people about ASIS and the UK education system, highlighting how a new approach to schooling can improve the learning experience for Indian students. Speaking in New Delhi as part of an India-wide ‘ Meet the Principal’ tour, Anglo Schools International Services (ASIS) Principal, David Boddy, “Eastern spiritual and emotional values have never been more needed in the world,” he said. “The western approach of pragmatism and efficiency is not enough to bring success and meet the challenges ahead. East and West need to meet on the field of education.” David, set up a new Federation of British Boarding Schools (www.angloschools. co.uk) that is offering scholarships worth over ~7 crore to Indian pupils to study in Britain. The lecture tour is taking place in Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Bangalore and Kolkata.
Human-powered vehicle challenge
This year’s design event was sponsored by Dassault Systems, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company. HPVC is an inter-college design, fabrication and racing competition for students where teams have to conceptualise, design and fabricate a human powered vehicle to participate in a three day event comprising of design competition, endurance race and a drag race. The objective of the races is to provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate the speed and reliability of their vehicles. Over the years, ASME HPVC event has attracted large number of college students from various parts of the world. This year’s event acted as a platform for students from various parts of India to showcase their technological and engineering prowess by engineering and realising a human powered vehicle as per the given requirements. The event is also a medium to promote environmental sustainability by designing viable modes of transportation for future needs. The event witnessed participation of 36 teams from across the country which included IITs NITs, BITS Pilani, ISMDhanbad.
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Training course on Bitcoin
Designed as a four-day programme, the course will be offered from all Koenig centres in India. In layman terms, Bitcoin is a form of digital currency which is controlled and stored electronically on computers and mobile phones spread across the internet. It’s not merely a simple currency but also a means to circulate, share and transact, just like PayPal or VISA. Bitcoin lets you hold money, spend and trade it too, very easily and cheaply. The open source software controlling it operates on a set of mathematical equations and laws — and also by those who collectively manage this service. Commenting on the new launch, Rohit Aggarwal, CEO and Founder, Koenig Solutions Ltd, said, “Koenig Solutions sees this as a great opportunity from which students and professionals in India and abroad can realise huge benefits. Participants enrolled for this Bitcoin course will understand what Bitcoin is, the complete process of Bitcoin mining, how to generate Bitcoins, and how they are changing the face of current online payment systems. They will learn to use Bitcoins for transactions in an easy hassle-free manner”. The course shall cover topics and skillsets such as Fundamentals of Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cryptographic, Bitcoin Transactions, Bitcoin Mining, Bitcoin Block, Bitcoin Working, Secure Trading with Bitcoin, Bitcoin Protocol Specification, Introduction to wallet, Securing Wallet, Securing Transaction with Bitcoin, Limitation of Bitcoin and the Future of Bitcoin Building Financial System. “Bitcoin holds promise for millions of internet users looking to simplify their payments and transactions in the online marketplace. Since almost everyone is a neophyte in this relatively new technology, it necessitates the need for Bitcoin training so as to get the most out of this e-currency service”, Subodh Chaudhary, GM, Koenig.
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Games Design and Art course
UK-based University of Southampton’s Winchester School of Art (WSA) is now accepting applications for its new BA (Hons) Games Design & Art programme, starting in September 2014. The course: It is a three year, full-time undergraduate programme. The course is designed to give a thorough understanding of the factors shaping the games industry and the techniques and principles used to design games to the students. Students will get an opportunity to design and prototype their own games and to analyse and consider games as a medium. How to apply: Students wishing to study BA (Hons) Games Design & Art need to make an application through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) (www.ucas.com). Eligibility: Applicants for this programme must meet Winchester School of Art’s English language entry requirements of an IELTS overall test score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each component (Or equivalent). Fee: The tuition fees for this programme are £14,440 per annum. Check out: http://www.southampton.ac.uk/wsa.
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10 commandments for physics
Aakash Chaudhary
— The writer is Director, Aakash Educational Services Ltd
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CEOs likely to get bigger pay hike
Indian companies are likely to give more than 10 per cent pay hike to their top executives this year amid hopes of revival in economic growth and business prospects, says a study. Global management consultancy Hay Group’s study released today said compensation of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and Managing Directors (MDs) are projected to increase by 10 per cent this year, higher than 9 per cent hike in 2013. Top executives, a part of the senior management team, are set to see a 10.4 per cent increase in their pay, up from 9.5 per cent seen last year. “This year, we see a return to double-digit pay increases for CEOs and their top teams, after a dip last year... The main reason for the trend is that companies expect a revival in economic growth post general elections,” Sridhar Ganesan, Country Head for Hay Group India, told PTI. Despite a very conservative economic outlook, organisations believe that this year’s general elections would give a spurt to their business prospects, he said. Hay Group said CEOs in India earn “78 times the salary of an entry-level professional” and the ratio has been consistently on the rise. According to Ganesan, external recruitment of CEOs has grown in both number and intensity. “The spotlight falls on the need for robustness in the senior team’s succession management processes, to make the internal talent pool relevant for leadership succession,” he noted. This pay ratio is higher for FMCG and real estate sectors, indicative of the CEO movements that have taken place in the last few years. The study — ‘Top Executive Compensation Report 2013-2014’— is based on an analysis of 2,524 jobs spread across 176 organisations.
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Gems of ancient wisdom Go wild
In the 22 years after being crowned on October 28, 1627, Mughal Emperor Jahangir fought many battles and suppressed many rebellions. But he found time for his hobby as a naturalist. In his zoo, he spent days for his observations. On Jahangir’s body of work, Birdman of India Salim Ali remarked, “His memoirs are a veritable gazetteer of the natural history of India of his day.” During a dispute between two neighbours over a mango tree, Birbal the wise said, “As the tree stands on the edge of your fields, pluck all the fruit and share it equally. Then cut the tree and share its wood in equal proportion.” While the false claimant agreed to the terms, the planter-nurturer of the tree began weeping. “As I have brought it up with my blood and sweat, don’t cut it down. Let my neighbour have it.” As Birbal had found the answer, the tree survived the axe. King Raja Raja Chola I ascended the throne in 985 AD. After spending a few years in conquering new lands, he commissioned the Brihadeeswara temple in Thanjavur. Legend has it that the huge Nandi statue at the entrance appeared to be growing in size. When asked, the sculptor revealed that a frog was trapped inside the idol and that caused it to grow. The king immediately ordered its release and it was placed in the temple pond. Eleventh-century saint Ramanujacharya went on a pilgrimage to Tirupati. On the way back to his abode from the temple, he saw a strange sight — in front of him was sitting a Brahmin on the road with his hand in a snake’s mouth! When he went near, he realised it was his cousin Govinda. After removing a thorn that had got stuck in the reptile’s tongue, he let it go. At Chundavurrai, in Munnar district of Kerala, is Tata’s largest tea factory. In the Ernakulam national park, the rare species of Ibex-Nilgiris are zealously guarded by Tata employees. When 15th century saint Shankar Dev of Assam — who had started on a pilgrimage from Barpeta — saw a deer trapped in a hunter’s trap, he ordered his followers to free it. Then, he left a coin as compensation for the hunter. Basaveshwara, Minister of Finance of King Bijjala of Kalyana and a revolutionary social reformer in the 12th century, campaigned aggressively against the sacrifice of animals during rituals. If corporates are doing their bit, should we citizens lag behind? — Sai R. Vaidyanathan The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com
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CAREER HOTLINE
Which are the courses available in population studies?
A. With global population growth having reached dangerous levels, Population Studies has gained increasing significance. A specialisation in this field offers opportunities to work with international aid agencies like USAID, Population Council, Ford Foundation, UNFPA, Care, etc on their various surveys and research projects. Central Government offices like the Census Office, Registrar General and Census Commission and Ministry of Family Welfare also employ specialists in Population Studies as do some NGOs and professional bodies such as the Indian Association of Population Studies. You could do your master’s in Population Studies at the following universities:
Courses: Master’s in Population Studies (MA/MSc), also available through distance learning (2-4 yrs). Eligibility: Master’s in Statistics, Maths, Econ, Sociol, Anthro, Psy or Geog.
If you wish to pursue further studies in the subject, you could opt for a host of other courses offered by IIPS or an M Phil in Population Science from JNU. Eligibility for the programme is MA in Geography. The course covers fields like Human Settlement, Methodology, Morality, Urbanisation, Census and Vital Statistics etc. Also check out some of the interesting courses offered at the Indian Institute for Human Settlements, India’s first National University for Research & Innovation based in Bangalore. Details: (www.iihs.ac.in). Besides these, several other universities offer a PG diploma courses after graduation: Punjab University, Maharshi Dayanand University, University of Madras, University of Burdwan, University of Rajasthan (post-MA Dip).
Is lateral entry allowed in BArch course?
A.
Unfortunately, there is no provision for lateral entry into the second year (or any other year) of the five-year BArch course. However, three-year diploma holders can seek admission to Year-1 of the BArch course, provided they have secured a 50 per cent aggregate and cleared the NATA / JEE test. The general eligibility requirement for admission to BArch courses is Class XII with maths and a minimum aggregate of 50 per cent, although the IITs and NITs require PCM. Unless a candidate has undergone the prescribed five-year BArch course and cleared the NATA, s/he is not eligible for registration as an architect with the Council of Architecture and consequently, cannot practise in the country. Registration with the COA is mandatory for seeking employment with Central/State Government and taking up teaching positions.
Right language!
A.
Use your versatility to your advantage! English and Hindi together combine for a very large proportion of media publications, channels and websites. Your comfort and command in English and Hindi gives you an edge both in the field and also the kind of organisations you can work in. Several large media houses as well as news agencies have multi-lingual publications and channels. Furthermore, in today’s tough times when media organisations have considerably cut-back on manpower and expect their employees to multi-task, your skills make you all the more attractive. Don’t be overly concerned about which language you start off in. Use the early years to build your network, learn the ropes and sharpen your nose for news. Email your queries to
careers@tribunemail.com
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FORTNIGHTLY QUIZ 456
2. What is India’s ranking in the 2014 Environmental performance Index (EPI) list? 3. When is National Voters Day observed in the country? 4. Which crop was affected by the yellow rust disease in parts of Punjab and Haryana recently? 5. Which place has been designated as the world’s largest reservoir of polio by the World Health Organisation (WHO)? 6. Name the country’s nuclear-powered submarine that is set for sea trials. 7. Name the world’s largest radio network. 8. On which river is the Ranjit Sagar Dam situated in Jammu and Kashmir? 9. Who recently became the oldest woman player to win the Australian Open tennis title? 10. Name the Swiss who recently won the men’s Australian Open singles tennis title.
— Tarun Sharma Winners of quiz 455: The first prize by draw of lots goes to Akhil Kumar; Class IX-A; Malwa Public School, Tej Enclave, Nabha, district Patiala; Pin Code – 147201 Second: Aditi; Class - 10 M; Shivalik Public School, Mohali; Pin Code — 160055 Third: Gaurav Verma; Class XI (roll no. 22); Root Model Public Senior Secondary School; Karsog; PO Karsog; district Mandi; Himachal Pradesh; Pin Code — 175011 Answers to quiz 455: Corey Anderson; India; India; Sheikh Hasina; Gorakhpur (Fatehabad); Arup Raha; Knesset; Aditya Joshi; India; Three 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
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“The first principle of architectural beauty is that the essential lines of a construction be determined by a perfect appropriateness to its use”. So said Gustave Eiffel while talking about the Eiffel Tower. Little did he realise then that he was laying the foundation of a specialised branch of engineering that would play a significant role in the progress of mankind.
A structural engineer is the nucleus of the construction industry. He designs the framework of buildings, pipelines and bridges so that these can support their own weight and withstand forces such as weather and traffic. Besides, he also takes into account aesthetics and efficiency. He oversees the end-to-end progress of an architectural project right from creating the initial design models using in-depth mathematical and scientific knowledge, and meeting with contractors to ensuring that the designs are followed closely. 
These are regular ads for vacancies for RJs, and there are many more from where these came! Radio is back on the scene in India, and while this may come as a surprise to many: radio still has a very large audience. Despite the vast expansion of TV, radio plays a critical role in disseminating information and spreading awareness, in urban and rural India. But unlike the sober sounds of Akashvani of the years gone by, today’s radio has undergone a revolution — it has metamorphosed into a non-stop chatty, witty monologue of new players such as Radio Mirchi, FM Rainbow, Red FM, Radio City, etc..with a brand new style of radio presentation, making it interactive and a lot more fun. With the advancement in technology, radio can be received on mobile phones, in cars, buses and trains, there are hundreds of specific channels devoted to different music genres, and with headphones or mobile headsets you can listen to radio anywhere and anytime, opening a new genre of careers in music for those who have an aptitude and love to play music for others' enjoyment.
An RJ entertains listeners of a radio programme and provides information along with selecting and playing records. An RJ should be able to connect to the listener who he/she cannot see, and so, should be friendly, spontaneous, warm and friendly, have a good voice and good command over language. In addition to playing music on air, they also provide information on music, weather and traffic and often current news as well. They are also required to have some knowledge about new genres of music, artists, or composers, and other information that will be of interest to listeners. This often involves some amount of research work. Most of the FM channels prefer to take on youngsters as they have new ideas, concepts and are bubbling with enthusiasm.
Students from the Faculty of Engineering & Technology (FET) of Manav Rachna International University (MRIU) have developed a Formula 1 Racing Car- MRV3 — a first of its kind eco-friendly vehicle with a mileage of 123km/litre. The urban diesel car will compete at the Shell Eco Marathon to be held in Manila, Philippines on February 6, 2014.
Team Wheelism from ISM Dhanbad won this year’s ASME HPVC (Human Powered Vehicle Challenge) organised by the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IITD) and Delhi Technological University (DTU) . Under the aegis of ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers), this contest was held in India for the first time. Winners in individual categories included:
Koenig Solutions Ltd., global leaders in offshore IT Training, announced the launch of a course on ‘Bitcoin’, the digital currency based on an open source peer to peer software.
Latest rage in the online world, Bitcoin is the new financial language of netizens who prefer paying online for goods and services.
Physics as a subject requires not only building of concepts but also their regular application in the form of numerical and derivations to be able to attempt the paper with full confidence. For scoring high marks in the subject, following points should be remembered well.
According to CBSE, optics will consist of 20% of the paper. Stress should be on optical instruments and numerical should be done giving special attention to sign convention.
While we — day in and day out — plan our future, let’s not forget the other children of Mother Earth. The well-being of flora and fauna is vital for our future. Modern-day firms take care of this aspect under the corporate social responsibility programme.
Q. I am in my final year of Geography (Hons). I am now toying with the idea of pursuing a postgraduate degree or diploma level course in population studies. Could you please tell me about the courses and prospects of this field?
— Chirag Bhasin
Q. As in the case of BE/BTech courses in engineering, can diploma holders also get lateral entry into second year of BArch? — gitika sarna
Q. After doing my BCom, I have completed my PG Diploma in Journalism. I have a good command over English as well as Hindi. Please guide me as to which language I should pursue my career in journalism? — rekha suman
1. Where is the annual World Economic Forum meet held?