Editor,
The passing of an individual to feel like a personal loss to a country of one and a half billion people is a testament to the impact that person had on the lives of ordinary individuals. In India, this phenomenon is common for film stars, cricketers, or politicians; however, a public outpouring of such grief over the death of a businessman is rare, reflecting the genuine affection people held for him—both for who he was and what he contributed.
Not being an avid follower of business news, I never knew much about Ratan Tata, the businessman—well! Apart from, of course, his groundbreaking ‘people-first’ approach, exemplified by the Tata Nano, and his remarkable comeback triumph over Ford with the acquisition of the British marquee brands Range Rover and Jaguar. Thus, my admiration for him goes beyond his business acumen and perhaps even his philanthropy. When I learned of his demise, it was the memories of what I had known of him as a person that resonated with me most.
One memory that stands out is the manner in which such a towering figure defended a young girl for posting a disrespectful comment about Mr. Tata online, where she referred to him as a “chotu,” meaning “little boy” in Hindi. Any other person with a quarter of Mr. Tata’s stature would have responded with disrespect or retaliation; a kinder person might have chosen to be indifferent at best. However, I cannot imagine anyone reacting in a way that turned the whole situation around, making the girl feel as though she had done nothing wrong at all. He righted her perceived wrong in a situation where he himself was being insulted. He responded with grace, stating, “There’s a child in each one of us; please treat the young lady with respect,” despite the barrage of insulting comments from netizens.
Another poignant moment that highlights his character occurred when Mr. Tata opted out of a prestigious ceremony hosted by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for his philanthropic efforts. Instead of attending the event organized solely for his own honour by British royalty, he chose to stay by the side of his sick pet dog, illustrating the priorities that truly defined him.
These actions are not just fleeting anecdotes nor isolated incidents few and far between; they represent the core of Ratan Tata’s essence and are emblematic of who he truly was. His compassion for others—especially towards those who lacked a voice and couldn’t stand up for themselves—was the foundation of his identity. Whether it was defending a young girl from online ridicule or prioritizing the well-being of a beloved pet, he consistently showcased a deep respect for life in all its forms. Ratan Tata believed in lifting others up, an ethos that resonated throughout his life’s work and was evident in both his professional endeavors and personal conduct.
As we reflect on his life and legacy, it becomes clear that his kindness and generosity will serve as a guiding light for many like me. His unwavering commitment to “people over profit” will continue to inspire future generations to care for one another, ensuring that his influence remains in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him, even if only through his actions.
Yours etc.,
Fahd Hazarika,
Guwahati
Dissatisfaction/Confusion about DCRG
Editor,
There seems to be dissatisfaction and confusion about delay relating to settlements of Death cum Retirement Gratuity (DCRG) due to retirees of private colleges and schools eligible for and governed under the DCRG Rules of the Education Department. As per procedures, the Principal/Headmaster would submit relevant records and details of retiree teachers to the Examiner of Local Accounts (now Director of Local Fund Audit) who being mandated under the DCRG rules, exercises due scrutiny of such relevant details and records and if everything is in order, issues a REPORT to the concerned Education Director, with copy along with relevant records to the Principal/Headmaster, indicating the exact amount of the DCRG payable to the concerned individual retiree. The amounts so reported stands final. The Education Director after location of funds, availability of which needs to be updated regularly as contemplated under provisions of the DCRG Rules, would issue sanctions addressed to concerned Principal/Headmaster for withdrawal of the amount and disbursement to individual named retirees. Secretariat level intervention is not normally needed in the process except when the Director moves for additional budgetary funds.
But when something is not in order, specially and primarily at the levels of Principal’s/Headmaster’s Office, delay and dissatisfaction are bound to surface. Generally speaking, it would be in the interest of an individual employee to take personal interest to periodically ascertain that his/her legitimate entitlements as admissible under relevant rules and orders, not more, not less, are regulated and placed on records (eg. Service Book) and updated regularly, especially six months before retirement date. Controversies or discrepancies raised or detected after retirement would only complicate and delay matters further.
Interestingly, the first recipients of DCRG, were the seven retired Professors of St. Anthony’s College, Shillong sometime in 1990-91, during the incumbency of Rev Fr Stephen Mavely as Principal of the College, Mr L M Das as Examiner of Local Accounts and Mr C Wolflang as DHTE.
Yours etc.,
B M Syiem
Nongkrem
Water problems in Mawbah
Editor,
Apropos of the news item, “West shillong areas reel under water scarcity” (ST October 2, 2024),I would like to thank the Rangbah Shnong of Mawbah for taking a positive step at a time of crisis when water scarcity hit the area badly a few days ago due to a major pipeline burst. The timely help of the Dorbar to distribute water to its residents after purchasing water from tankers deserve all praise and appreciation from every section of society and especially from residents of Mawbah. I heartily congratulate the members of the Dorbar Shnong for their sincere effort in this regard.
Further, I would like to draw the attention of the concerned authorities about the pathetic condition of the RCC water tank constructed near Mawbah which is merely symbolic. The water outlet of this particular tank is connected with PVC pipes which is not suitable when compared to previously installed GI pipes. Water scarcity in many households has become a common phenomenon these days due to uneven supply of water from this tank. The seepage of water in the nearby drains is noticed due to faulty connection of flexible PVC pipes.
I sincerely urge the concerned authorities, the Shillong Municipal Board and PHE department, to take necessary steps and replace the PVC pipes with traditional GI pipes so that the water scarcity problem of the area can be resolved at the earliest and residents of the area would be able to get safe drinking water regularly.
Yours etc.,
A concerned resident,
Shillong 2