IBNLive Chat: 'Karnataka Inc looking forward to stability'

IBNLive Chat: Manipal Education CEO Sudarashan answers IBNLive readers' questions.

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Keywords: IBNLive Chat,, Karnataka

Lt Col Krishnan C: With the mixture of parties, first of all, do we expect a government in Karnataka this time with an absolute majority to whom Karnataka inc can propel our needs so that some tangible result can be expected?

Anand Sudarshan: I pray to the almighty that we get a government which has a majority, and is able to focus its attention on governing the state, and not get distracted by saving their seats. We the citizens have a role to play in this regard. We should get out and vote, and play our part in making sure a government with majority is elected. Having said that, fractured mandate is a potential feature of democracy — even if there's one, we should pray for basic ethics in formation of coalition governments.

Vishvesh: Can the new government ensure seats in school and professional courses based on merit and economic condition and not based on caste. In years to come, the backward caste and other caste enjoying the reservation would be forward caste and the forward caste would then be backward in all aspect. Isn't it right to provide admission to economically weaker section (irrespective of caste)?

Anand Sudarshan: Reservation is a central subject. The state government will have limited role to play in introducing economic criterion-based reservation of seats. It will have to be done over and above the mandated reservation. And even if they try, it is not likely to get any political traction. I believe the state government can approach this in another way, i.e. through scholarships and assistanceships (and soft long-term loans) for all students from economically weaker sections. That would be a great help.

Dr Nagasampige: Most of our universities lack basic infrastructure, as a result of which, students who pass out from such universities would struggle hard to get into industry. Previous government did not do any remarkable achievement in terms of higher education in the state. Could we expect any significant changes from the new government?

Anand Sudarshan: You are correct; there is a lack of even basic infrastructure in many educational institutions. I think the state government will probably have to put primary and secondary education focus a little bit ahead of higher education, to start with. In the Higher-Ed segment as well, I think the new government can do a lot - including de-politicising leadership appointments, working on a strong focus on academic excellence in all institutions, bringing back the research focus that has distinguished Bangalore (in particular) from all other cities in India, etc. I certainly expect that of the new government!