The nexus between funding and 'distorted' research findings continues unabated. The latest is revelation about several researchers in Harvard Medical School who received consultancy contracts from some pharmaceutical companies to 'prove' the effectiveness of certain psychotic drugs for mental illnesses. Millions of dollars were 'paid' to these researchers in lieu of this important 'research finding'. For every such revelation, one wonders how many we never get to know about?
2.
Most universities have been doing away with the formalities of convocations. In Indian universities, convocations are held, if at all, after 3-4 years. Graduates are happy to receive degrees by post. Hence, it was indeed refreshing and inspiring to see a highly ritualised and dignified convocation at University of Victoria, Canada. The respect for heritage from indigenous First Nations people was most inspiring for graduates and their families alike
3.
The Finance Minister of India has modified the definition of charity as exempt from Income Tax recently. Now, any non-profit organisation which raises any resources by charging fees for service, or offering to undertake any assignments or sale of its products/publications etc can be denied income tax exemption and made to pay taxes. This is particularly worrying at this juncture when the long-term sustainability of many Indian civil society organisations is under threat. So, there may not be any non-profit sector in India very soon, except perhaps of a purely religious variety. Is this not incongruent with the recently proclaimed National Policy on Voluntary Sector?
4.
The net savings rate for households in America is now negative; that means that majority of American households are deeply indebted today. The values of frugality and thrift have been displaced by values of consumption and ostentatious ness. The Chinese and Indian households continue to maintain nearly 25% savings rate; but this is slowly changing. High consumption and borrowing into the future is becoming at the habit of younger generation. Is it not time to reinforce some of these 'traditional' values?
5.
It is time again for admissions to colleges in India. And, harassed parents and anxious students are running around to get application forms, to apply in multiple colleges and to await results patiently. The main criteria of granting admission is percentage of marks obtained in school leaving examinations. Now, the cut-off percentage for admission to Bachelors in English is 92%? So, kids in highschool will be pushed by their parents to study harder and attend special coaching classes so that they can do better than this in coming years. What a tragedy that continues unabated?
1
|
