The age of Eklavyas

 Any person who has taken interest in Mahabharata even remotely would be aware of the story of Eklavya. The famous archer who considered Drona to be his guru and developed his expertise after taking inspiration from him. Drona didn't agree to teach him archery because he was associated with Arjuna- a kshatriya, while Eklavya was apparently from a lower sociological strata. This didn't deter Eklavya to give up his passion.

Fast forward and come to the 21st century. There may be few Dronas now who may be unwilling to tutor anyone for sociological reasons. But on the flip side there are millions who can't really afford to pay to learn from professors of the best universities of the world.  Had internet existed in the age of Mahabharata, Eklavya would have been able to see Drona on youtube, listened to his thoughts on podcast, read about his theories of warfare online and may be even attended his webinar without Drona ever getting to know about all this. We are all Eklavya's in some form trying to learn from Dronas scattered all over the world. The distance between Arjuna and Eklavya has shrunk considerably.

Today we as Eklavyas can get to learn from whosoever we want to, provided we have the intent and inclination to do that. Big assumption being we can afford to access internet. 

And the icing on the cake is that, the Drona will not get to ask his thumb as gurudakshina any more.

It has taken several ages to reach this stage. Some distances are just so long to cover !

Hillary Clinton's speech on US approach towards the development sector

This speech by Hillary Clinton given at Center for Global Development makes some very important remarks on the way US intends to approach development challenges in countries which is intends to support through its various programs.

I really liked some of the points along with the q & a at the end of the session:

• Important to understand how to channelize the dollars. To new countries or to countries which can act as regional anchors to development
• The importance of understanding the context of problem in each geography and to come out with local solutions. There is no formulaic approach to development
• Model of development based on partnership and not patronage
• Engender local leadership
• Not to help those who are able but not willing to help themselves
• Aid chases need while Investment chases opportunity. Hence have a keen eye for investment
• Work together with agencies so that we don't become redundant or duplicative
• Work so that the 3 Ds of Development, Diplomacy and Defense get reinforced
• Convergence of areas where the organization would focus its resources and skills
• Looking at development not just from a moral stand point but as a strategic, economic imperative important for global stability and sustainable growth
• Investment in technology and innovation
• Further focus on women and girls since they are key to social, economic and political upliftment

Insightful report on Youth in developing countries

Considering the fact that youth comprises a very significant proportion of the population particularly in developing countries, the recent World Development Report 2007 focuses in a very detailed manner on the aspects which need to be catered to so that this section of society is able to constructively engage in economic, social as well as political activities.

The report can be downloaded from >>