Jobs  & Careers



Art Management
The business of art
Indian Art has caught the attention of a global audience. The latest edition of the India Art Fair held in January this year in New Delhi attracted 1,000 artists from around the world representing 50 per cent international and 50 per cent Indian galleries, including a line up of 24 unique art projects, and much else. What’s more this event not only brought together big names from the world of art, such as Anish Kapoor, Anjali Ela Menon, Subodh Gupta and Dyanita Singh, but also showcased cross-culture networking, international patronage and gallery collaborations across the globe, which have helped India become an art hotspot.
Thinkstockphotos/Getty images

Career Hotline
Legal dreams!
Q. I am studying in BA final year at Punjabi University, Patiala. I want to pursue LLB after graduation kindly guide for the same. — vijay bansal

field in focus: agriculture
Rich harvest of opportunities
There has been extensive growth in development in the field of agriculture over the past three years, be it in terms of research, teaching or extension of technology. Modern techniques have been created for micro-propagation; molecular breeding, nano-technology, hi-tech horticulture, protected cultivation of vegetables; bio-fertiliser and bio pesticides production etc. Thus the scope and opportunities in agriculture have widened to unparallel and unprecedented scale.

subject matter: speleology
Explorers’ delight
Speleology is the scientific study of caves and other karst features, their make-up, structure, physical properties, history, life forms, and the processes by which they are form ed (speleogenesis) and change over time (speleomorphology). Originally a part of the wider field of geology, speleology is coming of age now. The term is also sometimes applied to the recreational activity of exploring caves, but this is more properly known as caving, spelunking or potholing. Speleology and caving are often connected, as the physical skills required for in situ study are the same.

smart strategy: dealing with credit stealing
Stand up for yourself
Almost every professional has gone through the dreadful experience of someone taking credit for their work. The situation is even worse when the person hogging limelight is one’s own boss.

Happiness @ work
Gems of ancient wisdom
Good boss is open to criticism
Most people in power can’t take no for an answer. They find it hard to handle criticism. But a good boss is one who can take bad news in his stride.

Course cruising
MBA in Infrastructure
TERI University that offers master’s and doctoral level programmes in various areas related to Sustainable Development, is inviting applications for MBA in Infrastructure programme for the academic session 2014-2016.

Course chat
Online Master’s degree in English Language Teaching
UK-based University of Southampton, in collaboration with the British Council, has launched an online Master’s Degree in English Language Teaching worldwide. The online MA will be offered across the world to individuals, ministries of education and education institutions for their teachers.

news board
90 pc students get campus placement in IIT-Roorkee
Ninety per cent undergraduate students at IIT-Roorkee received campus placement offers this year from globally renowned companies, with the highest international placement offer standing at Rs 73 lakh. As many as 1,047 out of 1,631 students registered at the institute got job offers from global giants like Google and Microsoft through campus interviews which took place for the first time in the history of the institution, according to an official press note. The highest salary package among international offers stood at Rs 73 lakh while the one in domestic category stood at Rs 32 lakh, it said.

scholarship roundup
Great opportunity
As part of the GREAT Scholarship programme-India and British Council Initiative, the University of Strathclyde, UK, is offering scholarships to meritorious students from India. These awards are open to new students who begin a one year full-time master’s course in September 2014.

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Art Management
The business of art
If you have an artistic aptitude and wish to jazz up your life in myriad hues, then a career in any aspect of art and its management will be a sure bet for a colourful future
Usha Albuquerque

Indian Art has caught the attention of a global audience. The latest edition of the India Art Fair held in January this year in New Delhi attracted 1,000 artists from around the world representing 50 per cent international and 50 per cent Indian galleries, including a line up of 24 unique art projects, and much else. What’s more this event not only brought together big names from the world of art, such as Anish Kapoor, Anjali Ela Menon, Subodh Gupta and Dyanita Singh, but also showcased cross-culture networking, international patronage and gallery collaborations across the globe, which have helped India become an art hotspot.

There has been a discernible shift in art appreciation and valuation over the past 10 years. Record-breaking prices by a series of Indian contemporary art works in highly publicised auctions by prestigious auction houses have made headlines and highlighted its lucrative investment potential. In fact, an art investment made a year ago would have doubled its value in two-thirds the time taken by equity shares. No wonder that financial institutions are also getting into the fray, and some banks in India have even started accepting art as collateral for leading art-cultural institutions, art galleries and corporate, being offered working capital on the basis of their art collections.

As Indian art comes of age, this is the time for those looking at a career in fine arts, to get in. Art galleries have mushroomed, exhibitions of works of art, and art auctions attract more than just connoisseurs and critics, and even new artists can expect to eke out a decent living from their artistic endeavours. It is not surprising, therefore , that in such an environment, the role of the art management is gaining importance.

Art management covers the interface of art and business and is a career best suited for students interested in the business side of arts and culture. Art management encompasses art curators, art gallery owners, art restorers, valuers and marketing professionals working in this field. Other than painters themselves who paint portraits, landscapes, scenery, still life, abstract design, murals etc. on different surfaces with different mediums, and sculptors who carve figures, statues, monuments in stone or use a variety of different materials for art installations, art management is now rapidly developing into a full-fledged profession, with a huge potential for growth.

The work

Art management requires you to be knowledgeable about art and works of art and understand its aesthetic and financial value.

Curators: The job of an art curator is highly creative and stimulating. To be in today’s art market, the curators needs to know all about the artist’s work and style, and also have an eye for what is good and what will sell.

Curators plan the artists for the shows, the catalogues, which include the images of the work to be shown and a carefully developed argument to support such an exhibition. Decisions about the number of works in a show, where the show is to be installed, which galleries are to be used, the appropriateness of images, and many other procedural issues are all the responsibility of the curator. Curators may also be called upon to provide art advisory services for corporate houses, institutions, hotels and other such organisations to develop their art collections.

Art gallery owners are constantly in touch with artists, aware of new artists, trends in valuation, exhibitions and the like, while also encouraging more people to learn, appreciate and buy good works of art. Some curators also own or work at art galleries.

Valuators: With so much money coming into art, Art Valuation is another important area of work. Without an approved valuer for art, financial institutions need art experts to help them identify and valuate an artist’s work, the best period of an artist and the investment prospects. There are also opportunities in areas linked to insurance of art works and the paperwork and custodial documentation which will be required.

Getting in

Art management is open to anyone with a love of art. While a background in fine arts, or an education in history of art is useful, it is not necessary to become an art curator, dealer or valuer of art works.

What is more important is to have a passion for art and to keep educating yourself. If you are basically creative you will be able to create a niche for yourself through exciting and creative ideas for exhibitions, shows and auctions.

Professional training is mandatory for those getting into art restoration and conservation, as a damaged work could be ruined by an untrained person.

While most universities offer bachelor and master’s degrees in fine arts, some colleges and universities also offer courses on the history of art and art appreciation.

The National Museum Institute of Art, Conservation and Museology at the National Museum in New Delhi has set up a faculty for conservation science that offers full-time courses in art restoration and conservation. The institute also offers short-term certificate courses in Indian Art and Culture, and Art Appreciation. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has also set up restoration facilities with trained specialists, and trains professionals on-the-job. Although there are no formal Arts Management programmes in India, a strong foundation in business through core courses focusing on marketing, management, accounting, finance, ethics, and law, with an emphasis on management in the arts sector are available at universities abroad and can be useful for any candidate interested in making a career in this field.

A Diploma in Arts Management has been set up by Madras Crafts Foundation www.mcfiam.org at DakshinaChitra (Chennai) in association with Louis Vuitton — the well known luxury brand as part of their CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) efforts. Focusing on the rich art, architecture, craft and performing arts of India and in particular South India, the vision of the programme at Dakshina Chitra is to create professionals committed to India’s art and culture, while providing them with the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes required to successfully manage and develop institutions in this field.

However, as those in the field point out that while the technical aspects, and aesthetic abilities count for a lot in this field, knowledge, reputation, a finely tuned visual sensibility, a quick observant eye, empathy with and respect for both art and the artist are equally important.

Career prospects

As a relatively new field, the arena of opportunities is vast. Art galleries and art auctions houses are opening up fast and furiously, there are regular art auctions and exhibitions and artists are the new celebrities and Page 3 fixtures —quite distinct from the impoverished image of yesteryear. Moreover, corporate houses are setting up art centres with the infrastructure for growth of art, both nationally and internationally and even launching a credible art fund, like a mutual fund, for investments in art.

Global auction house Christie’s first-ever auction in India in December last year is being seen by many as a sign of revival of the Indian art market. Domestic auction houses like Pundoles and Saffronart are optimistic about the future after the latter sold works worth ~30.32 crore, including a 1951 gouache on paper by SH Raza for ~5.75 crore. Other Indian auction houses like Bid & Hammer have come up with the objective of developing the Indian art and auction market beyond paintings to include miniatures, jewellery, English & Indian silver, antique swords and daggers, period furniture, antiquarian books, maps, prints and photographs, carpets, rugs, tapestries, cricket memorabilia and a host of other decorative works of art and collectibles

Moreover, improvements in computer technology and the spread of personal computers have provided artists with new tools and a forum for display and auction of art works and for interacting with potential customers, marketers and other artists. Today there are sites dedicated to art and art auctions. Video art is also becoming popular. Interactive computer installations and completely virtual environments are coming up, where the viewer uses a data interface such as a joystick, helmet, glove or other such item to move through two or three-dimensional projections and to interact with virtual figures or objects.

As the interest in art grows, the acute shortage of trained manpower is also being felt increasingly. So if you are artistically bent and wish to jazz up your life in myriad hues, then a career in any aspect of art and its management could be a sure bet for a colourful future.

Restoration
Other specialisation in this field can include restoration and conservation that aims to bring old or existing works of art to conform as closely as possible with their original condition. Restorers are also required to distinguish between fakes and the original, as works of art continue to be smuggled out, and covered up through fakes.. Conservation work basically covers the preservation of all original art materials whether paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, cloth, metal etc. and their treatment to prevent further deterioration. These are jobs requiring specialised skills. Restoration work involves using the latest laboratory technology, such as the infra red and ultraviolet scans, X-ray and chemical and microscopic analyses to assess the damage and decide on the appropriate treatments for each work of art. The process, on a single oil painting, can take from 15 days to one year to complete depending on the extent of the damage. Sculptures, manuscripts, old photographs are also handled in a similar manner.

— The writer is Director Careers Smart Pvt Ltd.

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Career Hotline
Legal dreams!
Pervin Malhotra
email your queries to careers@tribunemail.com

Q. I am studying in BA final year at Punjabi University, Patiala. I want to pursue LLB after graduation kindly guide for the same. — vijay bansal

A. A career as a lawyer can be very paying and can lead to positions of influence and power once you have earned a reputation. While the work is demanding and difficult, it is also interesting and fulfilling. However, the reality of this profession is a far cry from the glamorised version dished out by films, tv serials and books. Though the earnings are often modest to begin with, they will increase with experience and expertise. The legal profession never seems to go out of vogue. But you must consider the pros and cons before plunging in.

The traditional three-year LLB degree continues to hold its own against the five-year integrated law course. One would be hard-pressed to find a difference in terms of the legal education and knowledge imparted. While it’s true that more and more universities are offering the five-year course, there are a number of good three-year programmes such as ones mentioned below.

University of Bangalore, Jnana Bharathi, Bangalore, (University College of Law & Bangalore Institute of Legal Studies) www.bangaloreuniversity.net

University of Delhi, Faculty of Law, Delhi 110007. (UT) www.du.ac.in

University of Mumbai, Mumbai 400032 (Mah) (Government Law College) www.mu.ac.in

University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad 500046 (AP) (Mahatma Gandhi Law College) www.uohyd.ernet.in

Allahabad University, Faculty of Law, Allahabad 2 (UP) www.allduniv.edu

Aligarh Muslim University, Faculty of Law, Aligarh 202002 (UP) www.amu.ac.in

Banaras Hindu University, Faculty Law, Varanasi www.bhu.ac.in

Panjab University, Chandigarh (Law centres at Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Muktsar, Hoshiarpur) http://pglaw.puchd.ac.in/

Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar www.gndu.ac.in

What is the scope of CMA?

Q.I have cleared Class XII in commerce stream in 2013. Now I want to do CMA (Cost Management Accounting). Can you please tell me about its scope, earning, placement etc? 
— kuldeep

A.The erstwhile ICWA course and the body providing the qualification have undergone a change in branding and identity. Henceforth, the body is known as the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI) and the qualification will be known as Cost & Management Accounting (CMA) with qualified members being designated as ACMA and fellows as FCMA.

Cost & Management Accountants collect, organise, collate and analyse the operational efficiency of large organisations, help management evaluate the effectiveness of their products/services and fix the budget and end price.

CMAs combine their knowledge of taxation and accounting with that of management and quantitative techniques to evaluate the financial aspects, determine accountability for cost and profit variance and provide alternatives in monetary terms for the organisation.

As a cost accountant you can find jobs in accounting (internal audits, book-keeping and financial accounting), finance and taxation, audit and costing in the industry (at the plant/factory of a manufacturing firm) or move into commercial and administrative functions or look for openings in the government.

Realising its importance in the economic development of the nation, the Central Government has constituted an all-India cadre known as Indian Cost Accounts Service (ICAS) at par with other Class-I services such as IAS, IFS etc. to advise the government in cost pricing and in framing the appropriate fiscal and tax policies.

You can also set up your own practice by obtaining a licence from ICAI or go into tax management or financial consulting. Your clientele may include private and public companies, large, medium and small scale undertakings, partnership and proprietary concerns, industrial, commercial and service undertakings etc.

The Institute offers a three-stage coaching system. You can enroll for the Foundation Course via Postal or Oral coaching after Class XII (even if you’re awaiting your final results). You must be at least 17 years old. Exams are held twice yearly (in June and December).

For more details please visit the ICAI website – www.icwai.org.

Opportunities for slow learners

Q. My 9-year-old son who goes to one of the prestigious schools in the city is faring very badly at studies. I think he is a slow learner. Would it be better to make him repeat a year so that he can cope with his studies in this competitive world? Both my husband and I are extremely worried. 
— suparna ghosh


Thinkstockphotos/Getty images

A. All children are special. But children with special needs are even more special. And they are born to special parents. With a little sensitivity and understanding you can help your son overcome his weakness.

Here are a few tips to help you along:

Don’t overplay the value of academic excellence at home. Constant comparison with brighter siblings or other children can devastate the child’s confidence and stunt his personality.

Don’t lose your temper, punish or nag the child about his failing. It diminishes his self-image. Remember: he’s not doing it on purpose. Every child needs to “feel good” about himself (don’t we all)?

Instead, help him discover compensatory skills. Identify his other areas of strength. Assure the child that personal worth is not solely dependent on performance in school.

There are different kinds of intelligences. Not all of which can be measured by traditional IQ tests. So what if his IQ is low? He may have excellent artistic or mechanical or social ability for instance. Who knows, s/he may have some unique hidden talents. Observe him closely in various situations and try to tap his capabilities. Remember success is relative, never absolute.

I don’t think making him repeat his class will help. Surely he’s not going to get brighter next year. Besides branding him as a “failure”, a drastic measure such as this, may be so crushing and traumatic for his little ego that it may drive him into a shell. If he’s in a reputed school, do speak to his teachers and request them to be more caring and encouraging. The CBSE gives lots of concessions and choice of alternative subjects for such children to lessen their burden. But for that, you’ll need a professional diagnosis to assess the extent of the condition.

Believe me, if you have faith in his abilities, and if you let him know that you do, he will amaze you by vindicating your trust. I have seen some enlightened parents cope with the situation with amazing grace, wisdom and ingenuity.

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field in focus: agriculture
Rich harvest of opportunities
N.K Aggarwal

There has been extensive growth in development in the field of agriculture over the past three years, be it in terms of research, teaching or extension of technology. Modern techniques have been created for micro-propagation; molecular breeding, nano-technology, hi-tech horticulture, protected cultivation of vegetables; bio-fertiliser and bio pesticides production etc. Thus the scope and opportunities in agriculture have widened to unparallel and unprecedented scale.

At the highest level, key research themes in the universities involve genetic enhancement of crops including horticulture and livestock, resilient to biotic and abiotic stresses; natural resource management, including climate change-adaptation and mitigation; farming system research; product development and value addition, technology transfer and out-scaling; capacity enhancement and policy research.

There is a growing need of agriculture graduates in various industries. today. Lucrative employment opportunities exist in the following sectors

Agricultural Economics

Agriculture has been the backbone of Indian economy. Agricultural economics or Agronomics is a field that deals with the distribution, management and productivity of the land. People who work in the business of agriculture are known as ‘Agricultural Economists’. They manage farms and other agricultural industries by applying new business concepts and problem-solving techniques. Many agricultural universities and colleges in India offer diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate and doctorate courses in agricultural economics. To be an agricultural economist a master’s degree is the minimum requirement.

Salary in this sector depends on various factors such as experience, position acquired, and expertise in the particular field, area of employment etc. In government sector one gets a starting salary ranging from ~20,000 to 30,000. However, a senior fellow in agricultural economic research field can expect ~35,000 to 55,000 per month as per the revised scale. Financial sector like banks also offer good pay packages.

Agri universities

Agricultural universities recruit postgraduates for different appointments from the concerned field of specialisation. Plant Pathologist, Breeder, Agro-meteorologist, Economic Botanist., Research Engineer, Agronomist, Scientist, Associate Professor are the main fields of employment. Other posts are Research Scientist, Assistant Scientists, Assistant Professors, District Extension Specialists, Assistant Plant Pathologist, Assistant Bacteriologist, Assistant Botanist, Assistant Soil Chemist, Junior Pedologist, Assistant Economic Botanist, Assistant Fruit Breeder, Assistant Seed Research Officer, Assistant Seed Research Officer, Junior Entomologist, Assistant Breeder, Junior Breeder, Junior Agronomist, Assistant Vegetable Botanist, Seed Production Assistant, and Assistant.

Key requirement of the above mentioned posts is a degree in PhD/ master’s degree in the concerned discipline. However, for some posts, experience in concerned field is mandatory and for Assistant professor and other teaching post, candidate should be NET qualified (conducted by UGC/ CSIR/ICAR/Other). For senior level post Ph.D in concerned field is a compulsory requirement.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) offers opportunities to pursue a career as an Agricultural Research Scientist (ARS). The recruitment to these posts is made through ARS/ NET. examination is conducted for Scientist post and lectureship. Also, ICAR has better options for graduates, postgraduates and for doctorate degree holders. Bachelor degree holder can apply for some technical post in concerned discipline. Also some technical post of level of T-5 (Technical Officer) is better option for postgraduate and above the Technical(T-5) post like T-6 etc and subject matter specialist in Krishi Vigyan Kendras are better opportunities for Ph.D degree holders.

Seed companies are offering opportunities to researchers to join them as a Seed Officer or a Scientist (Breeding, plant protection etc.), and in addition they have vacancies for some technical appointments and other field jobs.

Agro Industry provides jobs to scientists, engineers, technologists, sales and marketing people, besides the production people. The area of work related to production, food processing, grain and seed processing, meat and poultry packing, dairy processing, fats and oils, textiles, fibres, machinery and equipment, fertiliser and lime, pesticides, herbicides, feed manufacturing, constructions, etc. for which people with adequate knowledge and experience in the respective fields are required.

Remuneration

Overall, pay for agriculture professionals depends mainly upon the academic qualification, institute or university from which the degree is attained, work experience and the skills possessed by the applicant. In the government sector, a fresh graduate can earn a monthly remuneration of ~20, 000. Within a few years of service it can go beyond ~ 25, 000. Candidates employed in the private sector can expect a good pay package. Those who are working with private organisations, MNCs and NGOs can also expect to get a good salary.

Agricultural Science
They are involved with methods of converting agricultural commodities into healthy food products for consumers. They combine a wide variety of scientific disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics to improve agricultural production and food quality. In food science, research work is being conducted for developing new and improved ways of preserving, processing, packaging, storing and delivering foods. Horticulture or Plant Science, Soil and Animal Science are also some of the related areas.

Agriculture professionals can seek employment in Central and state government ministries and departments; agricultural finance corporation research institutions; nationalised banks and rural banks; krishi vigyan kendras; agro-industry sector; agricultural universities and various agricultural service organizations.

Graduates in agricultural science are employed as agricultural managers/ inspectors in farm related government and non- government organisations, agro-industries, food-processing unit, dairy fields, NGO's and breeding centers. A bachelor’s degree is enough for trade in product development or applied research in agriculture. For a career as an agricultural scientist, a master’s degree is necessary and PhD in agriculture is needed for the post of a senior researcher and in teaching profession. Those with post graduate diploma and degree in agriculture and related subjects can become agriculture technologists.

Some leading universities
ANGRAU, Hyderabad
National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal
Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner
Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat
Bihar Agricultural University, Bhagalpur
Birsa Agricultural University (BAU), Ranchi
Central Institute on Fisheries Education, Mumbai
Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi
Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur
Rajendra Agricultural University (RAU) Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar.

Agricultural Engineering
Agriculture Engineer’s major task is to improve farming techniques and agricultural products and for that they combine the principles of engineering and biological science, so that farming is made easier, efficient and more profitable. Exciting and lucrative career opportunities are available for qualified agricultural engineers in Government and Public Sector organisations. Teaching is yet another option. Agricultural engineers can work with NGOs in rural areas as part of their rural development program.

Students who wish to pursue a career in Agricultural Engineering should hold a strong foundation in physics, chemistry and mathematics. To become a qualified agricultural engineer one should have a bachelor’s degree (B.E/ B.Tech.) or a master’s degree (M.E/M.Tech.) in Agricultural Engineering. The remuneration depends on the status of the industry and experience, qualification and ability of the employee. They can find job openings both in India and abroad.

— The writer is Chairman, Crystal Group

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subject matter: speleology
Explorers’ delight
Preetinder Kaur

Speleology is the scientific study of caves and other karst features, their make-up, structure, physical properties, history, life forms, and the processes by which they are form ed (speleogenesis) and change over time (speleomorphology). Originally a part of the wider field of geology, speleology is coming of age now. The term is also sometimes applied to the recreational activity of exploring caves, but this is more properly known as caving, spelunking or potholing. Speleology and caving are often connected, as the physical skills required for in situ study are the same.

It is a cross-disciplinary field that combines the knowledge of chemistry, biology, geology, meteorology and cartography to develop portraits of caves as complex, evolving systems.

Prior to the mid-nineteenth century the scientific value of caves was considered only in its contribution to other branches of science, and cave studies were considered part of the larger disciplines of geography, geology or archaeology. Very little cave-specific study was undertaken prior to the work of Édouard-Alfred Martel (1859-1938), the ‘father of modern speleology’, who through his extensive and well-publicised cave explorations introduced the concept of speleology as a distinct area of study.


Thinkstockphotos/Getty images

In India, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Mizoram and Uttarakhand also found mention for caves. However, when it came to the 10 longest caves in India, all 10 are in Meghalaya. Ranked for depth, nine are in Meghalaya and one in Mizoram.

The growth of speleology is directly linked with that of the sport of caving, both because of the stimulation of public interest and awareness, and the fact that most speleological field-work has been conducted by sport cavers.

Speleology involves a complex overlapping of various scientific fields.

Geospeleology or Physical Speleology: One of the sciences of the earth, which also include geology, physical geography, karstology, hydrogeology, and the exploration and topography of individual caves.

Biospeleology: The study of subterranean life, a branch of biology or zoology which includes systematics, morphology and experimental research of cave fauna, ecology, biogeography, genetics and evolutionary biology.

Anthropospeleology or Speleo-Anthropology: A part of anthropology, archaeology and paleontology related to the past and present of human beings in caves.

Where to study

The study of caves or speleology is in its infancy in India. There is no university department or chair dedicated to the topic including at the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU). In the absence of a separate department this subject remains associated with geology and some of the universities offering a degree in geology have this subject as a constituent of the curriculum. However, a few dedicated and seemingly networked scientists scattered nationwide maintain an interest. The only institutional names in the field are the Raipur based-NGO, National Cave Research and Protection Organisation headed by Dr Jayant Biswas and the Shillong based-MAA. Every year during Meghalaya’s dry months, expert cavers from overseas reach the state to explore its caves in league with the MAA. That’s how the underground map of the region evolved. Both the Indian Army and the Indian Navy had links with the MAA to partake in the adventure.

Geology can be taken up after Class XII (PCM). Admission to university courses is merit based.

Opportunities in cave research may be few at present, but with the development of new techniques, a whole new world is opening for future exploration.

— The writer is Personality Development trainer, Baddi University

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smart strategy: dealing with credit stealing
Stand up for yourself
Ragini Gulati

Almost every professional has gone through the dreadful experience of someone taking credit for their work. The situation is even worse when the person hogging limelight is one’s own boss.

Although not an uncommon phenomenon at any workplace, the reasons behind credit-stealing may vary. Some bosses feel threatened by their subordinates whilst others lack basic competence.

Unfortunately, most of the employees prefer to suffer quietly than deal with an unscrupulous supervisor.

Stay calm

Although easier said than done, stay calm and think rationally when your senior takes credit for your work. It may be a genuine oversight or misunderstanding rather than a malicious act. Seek to understand the situation by assessing the supervisor’s possible motivations. Observe whether it’s a one-off incident or your ideas are repeatedly being stolen on purpose.

Write down the grievances that you have against your boss along with specific examples. Jotting down will give clarity of thought while discussing the concern as and when required. Also refrain from openly showing your anger and sharing frustration with co-workers. Keep things to yourself since ranting about it may reach the supervisor’s ears and backfire.

Document your work

One of the best ways to safeguard an idea or work is documentation. Make it a point to keep a record of everything, especially important projects. Systematically file all correspondence, including letters, emails and memos.

Likewise, add a small footer to the reports that you have prepared single-handedly. Attaching your name will ensure that no one doubts that you are the brain behind an initiative.

Another option is to send emails pertaining to progress you have made not only to your immediate boss but to the higher-ups also. Leaving a trail of your accomplishments will discourage the supervisor from taking credit for your work. Most importantly documentation will support your claim that the boss is disregarding your contributions.

Spread the word

A major reason for ideas being stolen is invisibility of the mastermind. Establish claim over your work by making sure everyone knows about it. Look for opportunities to talk about your project with seniors as well as colleagues. Share ideas in team meetings instead of running them through the supervisor every time.

Don’t shy away from marketing yourself by giving as many presentations as possible. However, spread the word about your contributions in a professional and subtle manner. At no point should the supervisor feel that you are trying to sabotage their position.

Additionally, develop positive work relationships across the organisation. Not only will it improve your visibility but more people will know about your capabilities.

Let it go

An important aspect of every employee’s job is to make their boss look good. As a consequence feel happy when your work garners accolades for them.

In fact, try to ignore one-off incidents rather then making a noise about them. Taking a stand whenever the boss hogs credit for your efforts may not be worth the hassle. Since they hold the key to your growth, working in tandem with them makes more sense. Moreover, consider the situation in a positive light by not taking things personally. Stealing spotlight for other people’s work may be a habit of the supervisor. As a result, sooner or later, they will be discovered and everyone will know who is really behind the work.

Speak to boss

However, of you feel that things are getting out of control, speak directly to your senior. Rather than a public confrontation, schedule the meeting in a private setting. Start the conversation on a positive note by discussing various projects. Subsequently, inform supervisor that you would like to get credit for your hardwork.

Avoid using confrontational language or accusatory tone. Frame grievances in a way that does not put your boss on the defensive. Explain your predicament by specifying incidents when you were disappointed on being overlooked. Make sure to keep a control over your emotions throughout the conversation. Speaking directly can resolve misunderstandings and clear the air to a large extent.

How you can deal with the situation
Stand up for yourself by tactfully ensuring credit for your hardwork and efforts.
Begin by maintaining a work diary to log in contributions and accomplishments.
Establish a strong connection with someone trustworthy, preferably a higher-up in the organisation.
Discuss your ideas in a public forum so that everyone knows it's your initiative.
Talk to the supervisor in a professional manner and communicate your discontent.

Approach HR
Eventually, when everything else fails, approach the Human Resource. Prepare a strong case and share it with them without sounding too complaining or emotional. Make sure to support your version with well-documented evidence including emails and reports. Update HR representative on your conversation with the boss and seek their guidance on how to handle the situation. Assess your options by either requesting for a transfer to another department or change of reporting boss. Immediate action may not be taken but at least your concern will be recorded with HR. 

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Happiness @ work
Gems of ancient wisdom
Good boss is open to criticism

Most people in power can’t take no for an answer. They find it hard to handle criticism. But a good boss is one who can take bad news in his stride.

“Show me the 10 greatest fools in the city. You have a month to complete the task,” Mughal Emperor Akbar told the wise Birbal. As the month came to a close, Birbal paraded eight men in front of the Emperor. “Two fools are missing from that line-up,” the Emperor said. “It is complete, Jahanpanah. You are the ninth fool for having sent me on such an errand. And I am the 10th as I obeyed you.” The Emperor burst out laughing.

In Calcutta, Mother Teresa would overhear many natives questioning — in Bengali — a white woman’s presence in independent India. The natives thought that she couldn’t understand their language. One day, she simply replied in Bengali, “Ami Bharatar, Bharat amar (I am Indian, India is mine).”

A son was born to Magadha King Vikramaditya. Court astrologer and astronomer Mihira predicted the boy’s death at the age of 18. In order to prove Mihira wrong, the King employed all means to defy death at the appointed hour, but to no avail — a boar killed the prince.

King Vikramaditya conceded defeat and bestowed on the astrologer Magadha Empire’s greatest award — the sign of a boar (varaha). From that time, he became renowned as Varahamihira.

When Sarojini Naidu first saw Mahatma Gandhi in London in 1914, she burst into laughter. She described him as “a little man with a shaven head seated on the floor, eating a messy meal of squashed tomatoes and olive oil.” She even compared Gandhiji with Mickey Mouse. Gandhiji looked at her unfazed and said, “You must be Mrs Naidu. Who else can dare to be so irreverent?”

Immature commanders get ruffled when criticised. One day, patriot-poet Subramania Bharati was day-dreaming in class. So the teacher sarcastically asked him, “O poet, you write verses like clouds pour rain. Why can’t you answer my question the same way?” He replied, “Clouds pour rain at their pleasure, not at the bidding of a teacher.” No wonder, Subramania Bharati failed in the matriculation examination.

Prevent your fall by being open to criticism.

— Sai R. Vaidyanathan
The writer can be contacted at svaidyanathan@tribunemail.com

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Course cruising
MBA in Infrastructure

TERI University that offers master’s and doctoral level programmes in various areas related to Sustainable Development, is inviting applications for MBA in Infrastructure programme for the academic session 2014-2016.

The course: The two-year programme equips the students with managerial skills in core subjects and also imparts knowledge of the technical, regulatory and sustainability aspects of infrastructure management. Students can specialise in managerial skills pertaining to specific sectors such as energy, transport, roads, telecom etc. The curriculum includes a unique blend of academic courses, exposure to real life cases, and work experience. The two-year MBA in Infrastructure is offered to students in two optional streams.

Stream I For graduates without work experience.
Stream II For graduates with work experience.

Tuition Fee: Rs 1,75,000 per semester

Eligibility: For Stream I — Bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks or equivalent CGPA with English at Plus II level.

For Stream II — Graduates with a minimum of two years experience in any of the following sectors namely government, regulatory bodies, industry, research/academic institutions, donor/consultant organizations.

Selection process: CAT/GMAT/MAT/CMAT scores followed by interview/group discussion

How to apply: Download application form from the university website. Apply online or obtain form from campus.

Communication address: The Registrar, TERI University, 10 Institutional Area, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi - 110070

Deadline: April 25, 2014 GD/PI : May 24-25 , 2014

Check out: www.teriuniversity.ac.in

IT courses

Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology, Gandhinagar, is inviting applications for admission to undergraduate BTech and postgraduate programmes in IT, agriculture and rural development and design.

Eligibility: For details on eligibility, admission process, scholarships and fellowships, visit website www.daiict.ac.in

How to apply: Online by making an online payment of ~1200 using credit/ debit cards or net banking 09 April 2014 and 12 May 2014.

Deadline: May 12,2014.

Check out: www.daiict.ac.in

Naval architecture courses

Hind Institute of Nautical Science& Engineering is inviting applications for admission to its newly launched BTech in Naval Architecture course and BSc in shipbuilding and repairing.

Eligibility: Minimum 55 per cent markes in Plus II in PCM (physics, chemistry and maths). Applicants before applying in HINSAE have to go through a Common Entrance Test (CET), which will conducted by Indian Maritime University (IMU).

The candidates should be between 17 and 25 years of age.

Check out: www.hinsae.com

Food Technology

The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Haryana, has invited applications for admission to four-year regular BTech. degree in Food Technology and Management and PG programmes for the academic year 2014-15.

Eligibility: Candidates who have passed their Class XII exam or any other qualifying examination in 2012 or 2013; or those who are appearing in their Class XII exam in 2014 are eligible. Subject combinations required in the qualifying examination shall be as under: Physics, mathematics and one of the subjects from chemistry, Bio-technology, computer science, biology with 50% marks in aggregate of all subjects.

Besides a candidate must be appearing in JEE (Main) – 2014.

Age: Born on or after October 1 , 1989.

How to apply: For Online Application, logon to the link: http://www.niftem.ac.in

non-refundable application fee of ~250 (for Gen/OBC) candidates and ~125/- (for SC/ST) candidates may be paid through Demand Draft (DD) or Online through Credit/Debit Card. DD should be in Favour of ‘NIFTEM’ payable at SBI Branch NIFTEM Campus, Kundli, (Branch Code-15479)

Last date of receipt of applications: June 20, 2014

Check out: http://www.niftem.ac.in

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Course chat
Online Master’s degree in English Language Teaching

UK-based University of Southampton, in collaboration with the British Council, has launched an online Master’s Degree in English Language Teaching worldwide. The online MA will be offered across the world to individuals, ministries of education and education institutions for their teachers.

The course: This is a two-and-a-half year long course. The University of Southampton will be responsible for providing the online teaching materials and overall academic quality assurance and awarding the master’s degree, while the British Council, which has been involved in course development, will be providing e-tutoring and assisting the recruitment of students.

Candidates who wish to apply for this course are required to have first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent in English, Linguistics, Modern Languages or another relevant discipline. They also need to have two years of relevant professional experience related to English language teaching (other relevant forms of experience may also be acceptable). English language requirement is IELTS 6.5 with minimum 6.0 in each section, or equivalent in other approved English language test. The total fee for the programme is £7,500 that can be paid in 3 equal instalments of £2,500 over the length of the programme. The deadline to apply for this course is 31st July 2014.

Check out: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/humanities/postgraduate/taught_courses/ taught_courses/modern_languages/r900_ma_english_language_teaching_online.page

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scholarship roundup
Great opportunity

As part of the GREAT Scholarship programme-India and British Council Initiative, the University of Strathclyde, UK, is offering scholarships to meritorious students from India. These awards are open to new students who begin a one year full-time master’s course in September 2014.

Subject areas: Master of Business and Management, MSc International Marketing, MSc International Hospitality and Tourism Management, MSc Biotechnology, MSc Mobile Systems, MSc Advanced Software Engineering, MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering, MSc Sustainable Engineering: Renewable Energy Systems, MSc Biomedical Engineering, MSc Investigative Journalism, LLM International Law and Sustainable Development, LLM International Economic Law

Eligibility: The candidates should have applied for a postgraduate course at Strathclyde and be in possession of an application number.

Number:12

Scholarship value: £3000 towards tuition fees.

Deadline: May 31, 2014

E mail: international@strath.ac.uk

UNESCO Fellowships

Applications are invited for UNESCO/ISEDC Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme available in specialised institutions in the Russian Federation. The aim of this fellowships programme is to enhance the capacity-building and human resources development in the area of sustainable and renewable energy sources in developing countries and countries in transition. Twenty training fellowships of four weeks duration (from October 6 to 31, 2014) will be awarded. The medium of instruction will be English.

Study Subject (s): Energy and sustainable development, Ecological management of energy resources, Renewable energy and Sustainable and renewable energy power generation.

Eligibility: Candidates must

Hold at least a BSc degree or BA in Economics;

Proficient in the Russian language;

Not more than 25 years of age.

Details: Beneficiaries will be exempt of paying tuition fees for the entire duration of studies/training.

Fellows will undertake studies/training under the supervision of an advisor or study director that will be provided by the host institution.

The donor government will pay stipends to beneficiaries on a monthly basis, in local currency. The stipend amounting to $800 is intended to cover living expenses such as accommodation, meals, pocket expenses, and incidentals. The donor will determine the amount of the stipend to be granted to beneficiaries;

ISEDC will assist in obtaining modest housing for the fellows.

Facilities offered by UNESCO:

UNESCO will cover the cost of the round-trip international travel at the most economical rate and the most direct flights.

UNESCO will pay a one-time travel allowance amounting to US$100 (one hundred US dollars) prior to the fellows’ departure for the Russian Federation.

Health insurance. To avail of this entitlement, beneficiaries should be declared medically fit by the UNESCO Medical Service that examines the complete medical dossiers.

How to apply: All applications should be endorsed by the National Commission for UNESCO and must be duly completed in English or French with the following attachments in DUPLICATE:

Deadline: May 30, 2014.

Check out: http://www.unesco.org/new/en/fellowships/programmes

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Fortnightly quiz 461

1. Name India’s second navigational satellite that was launched recently.

2. Who is the Chief Election Commissioner of India?

3. Name the United Nations panel that recently released a report on changes in global climate.

4. Which birth anniversary of late Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw is being marked this year?

Artistry with message
Artistry with message

5. With which discipline is Sudarsan Pattnaik associated?

6. Which aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) is also known as the ‘big bird’?

7. Name the interim president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

8. Who is world’s number 1 men’s badminton player?

9. Which country won the women’s T20 World Cup title recently?

10. Which country won its maiden T20 cricket World Cup title recently?

—Tarun Sharma

Winners of quiz 460: The first prize by draw of lots goes to Anika Passi Class-7th D; Bal Bharti School, NH-10, Bahadurgarh; Pin Code — 124507

Second: Gaurav Verma; Class XI (Roll No.23) Root Model Public Senior Secondary School Karsog; PO Karsog; district Mandi, Himachal Pradesh; Pin Code — 175011

Third: Aditya Kalia; Class:VII-A; Sri Aurobindo School of Integral Education 1-A; Sector 27-A, Madhya Marg, Chandigarh; Pin Code —160019

Answers to quiz 460: Russia; Khushwant Singh; MH370; India; 0.31 degrees Celsius per decade; Vrindavan; India; Duncan Fletcher; The Netherlands; Four

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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