Generative AI, often spoken about as the fuel of the next industrial revolution, is no longer a futuristic concept in India—but its reality for MSMEs is one of tentative first steps rather than full-scale transformation. Across smaller enterprises, AI adoption is visible in the form of chatbots that answer customer queries, cloud tools that help craft marketing campaigns, and analytics dashboards that make sense of sales patterns. The real breakthrough for MSMEs lies in the localisation of AI—tools that understand Indian languages, regional preferences, and the rhythms of diverse markets. This is where even a modest investment can automate tedious workflows, sharpen decision-making, and open doors to customer engagement that feels both personal and scalable.

Quantum computing, meanwhile, sits on a different part of the adoption curve—more promise than practice. India’s ₹6,000-crore National Quantum Mission is setting the stage for what could be a seismic shift in computing capability. For now, MSMEs are unlikely to use quantum processors in their daily operations, but they can still position themselves to benefit when the technology matures. Cloud-based quantum simulators already offer a window into its possibilities, whether for optimising delivery routes, designing new materials, or modelling financial risk. In a world where competitive advantage often comes from seeing the future a little earlier, simply understanding where quantum might fit could be the strategic edge MSMEs need.

The story of 5G, however, is more immediate. With over 400,000 base stations already deployed, its reach is extending into tier-two towns and rural districts. For small businesses, this is a leveller—turning slow, unreliable connectivity into a springboard for cloud-based operations, real-time collaboration, and even IoT automation. In manufacturing units, machines can now be monitored remotely. In farmlands, irrigation systems respond instantly to environmental data. In retail stores, point-of-sale systems run smoothly without a hitch. 5G is not just about speed; it is about collapsing the distance between ambition and execution for businesses that have long been constrained by infrastructure.

Immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality are another frontier quietly opening up for MSMEs. The price of VR headsets and AR-enabled devices has fallen, allowing small firms to experiment with use cases once reserved for large corporations. Imagine a jewellery store in Jaipur offering a virtual try-on experience to overseas customers, or a mid-sized engineering firm in Coimbatore training technicians through VR simulations instead of shutting down production lines. These technologies are still niche for MSMEs, but where they are applied thoughtfully, the payoff—in cost savings, skill retention, and customer delight—can be disproportionate to the investment.

And then there is the invisible but indispensable layer: trust, security, and ethical technology use. As India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act takes hold, MSMEs must come to terms with the fact that in the digital economy, privacy is not just a compliance box but a currency of trust. The cyber threat landscape is evolving, with phishing and ransomware attacks no longer confined to big corporates. AI-powered security tools can serve as the MSME’s watchtower—detecting anomalies, preventing breaches, and safeguarding customer confidence. Paired with transparent data practices and responsible AI deployment, these measures form the foundation upon which sustainable digital growth can rest.

For MSMEs in 2025, technology adoption is not a race to outspend or out-innovate the big players. It is about making deliberate, well-timed moves—starting small, scaling wisely, and always aligning technology with the unique demands of their sector. A retailer’s path will differ from a manufacturer’s; a healthcare provider’s priorities will not match those of an agri-tech firm. Yet, across the board, the constants are clear: build skills before chasing scale, choose solutions that can grow with the business, and treat security as the first step, not the afterthought.

The digital tide is rising, and MSMEs have two choices—stand still and risk being left behind, or learn to ride it with balance and purpose. Those that choose the latter will not just survive the next wave of technological change; they will emerge as agile, competitive, and resilient players in an India that is moving rapidly toward its digital future.

This war doesn’t come with warning sirens. It doesn’t knock on your door. It’s already inside—inside your phone, inside your kid’s room, and inside their head. I’m talking about the silent invader that is Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube Shorts, and every other social media platform we’ve handed to children like candy.

A Father’s Pain—and a Nation’s Reflection

A few weeks ago, I sat with an elderly father—a man with deep lines on his face and a heavier weight in his heart. He told me about his sons. Both educated, one an engineer, the other with an M.Tech in Structural Engineering. Bright kids. Smart. Capable.

Today? Unemployed. Not because there aren’t jobs—but because they’re stuck. Hooked on social media. Addicted to the illusion of relevance on Instagram. Lost in the never-ending scroll. No direction, no discipline, no connection with their family or even their own ambitions.

He was heartbroken. I was too. But somewhere in my head, a thought hit me like a hammer—this isn’t just his story. This is everywhere. This feels planned.

You Don’t Need Bombs to Break a Nation

n the old days, it took years of planning, infiltration, and subversion to mess with a country’s youth. Now? You just need a trending app and an algorithm that feeds off human attention. It’s not a conspiracy theory—it’s psychology. It’s business. It’s reality.

We started with static posts. Then came videos. Then came short-form reels. And now? Even 30-second clips feel too long for kids. They swipe past with boredom, needing something faster, louder, more addictive.

We’re raising a generation that can’t sit still. That can’t delay gratification. That’s losing patience, resilience, and focus—qualities that once built civilizations.

The Culture Shift That’s Wrecking Us

Let’s call it what it is—we’re trivializing education. Especially technology, science, and engineering. The same stream that powered India’s global rise in tech is now being mocked as “boring,” “useless,” or “plan B.”

Meanwhile, Quick fame. Quick money. Low depth. Non-sustainable. Gig jobs that require no or minimum intellectual growth are becoming the most sought-after choices.

This mix of distraction and distortion is dangerous. We are not just losing engineers. We are losing problem solvers. Builders. Thinkers. The very people who shape the future of a nation.

The Influence Starts Too Early

Applications like Instagram have an age restriction of just 13 years—and that alone should make us pause. Just imagine the kind of influence it can create on a young, formative mind still figuring out the world.

At 13, kids should be learning how to think, not how to pose. They should be developing curiosity, not curating a digital persona. But we’ve thrown them into a space that was never designed for mental well-being. And the results are showing—anxious teens, depressed students, restless minds.

Where is the oversight? Who’s drawing the line? Or have we just accepted this silent collapse as normal?

This Is Psychological Warfare

This isn’t about “too much screen time.” This is psychological reprogramming—one reel, one like, one notification at a time. We’re not just distracting our youth. We’re dulling them. Hollowing them out. Making them forget who they are and what they’re capable of.

And the worst part? We’re all watching it happen. In every house, in every city. It’s no longer a rare story—it’s the new normal.

So, Are We at War?

Yes, we are.

It’s not a war with bloodshed. It’s a war of influence. Of attention. Of values. Because a country isn’t broken by external enemies. It crumbles when its foundations—its youth, its thinkers, its builders—are weakened from within.

AI is already creating waves, and let’s be honest—it’s bringing a mixed bag of excitement and fear across the industry. Quantum, too, falls into that same category. Topics like these naturally create a sense of curiosity. And I thought, maybe it’s a good time to share a few of my own observation here.

So, what’s the big deal about quantum computing?

To put it simply, Quantum computing is a field of computer science that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations. while classical computers use bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states at once. That means they can process large and complex problems much faster than any system we use today. It’s like moving from a regular bicycle to a jet engine—it completely changes the scale and speed.

The potential? Huge.

From pharmaceuticals to finance, supply chain to cybersecurity, quantum computing could impact everything. Imagine being able to test drug molecules virtually in seconds, or optimise a nationwide logistics network in real-time, or even break through existing data encryption standards. It’s not science fiction—it’s science, just around the corner.

Of course, it’s not all here just yet. But the early signs are clear, and major players like IBM, Google, and also several Indian startups are already deep into research and experimentation.

And I strongly feel—we need to start embracing these new technologies, instead of hesitating or waiting for the “right time.” As we say in Sanskrit, “कालाय तस्मै नमः” – we bow to time, acknowledging its power to change and transform. Technology is part of that time—always moving, always evolving.

As leaders, professionals, and learners, our job is not just to adapt—but to build resilience to change and keep innovating, one step at a time.

The future may feel uncertain, but being curious and open is a great place to start.

Social enterprises are often misunderstood as charity-driven organizations. But in reality, they are powerful engines of change, blending business principles with a mission to address social issues. The need for profitable social enterprises in rural India has never been more urgent. Why? Because traditional charity alone is not enough—what we need is sustainable, scalable impact.

Why Social Enterprises Matter in Rural India

Rural India presents both challenges and opportunities. Limited infrastructure, lower income levels, and lack of access to services make it difficult for people to improve their quality of life. At the same time, these gaps create meaningful opportunities for mission-driven businesses that can make a difference.

A well-built social enterprise can do three key things:

1. Identify and address a pressing societal need – whether in education, healthcare, financial inclusion, or sustainable farming.
2. Generate revenue while creating impact – ensuring long-term viability without relying solely on donations.
3. Empower communities by creating jobs and self-sufficiency – fostering independence instead of dependency.

If designed right, social enterprises can be more sustainable than NGOs and more purpose-driven than traditional businesses. They balance impact with profitability, ensuring that the mission is not lost while making the enterprise financially viable.

Finding the Right Opportunity: Bridging Gaps in Society

The foundation of any social enterprise starts with identifying a meaningful opportunity—a gap in society that, when addressed, can create mass impact. Unlike traditional businesses, which focus purely on demand and supply, social enterprises must look deeper:

• What critical problem exists in rural communities?
• How can a business model help solve it sustainably?
• Can this solution be scaled to create widespread impact?

For example, many villages struggle with access to clean drinking water. Instead of setting up a charity-driven water distribution program, a social enterprise could develop a low-cost filtration system that locals can purchase and maintain. This model ensures both impact and business sustainability.

The Art of Funding a Social Enterprise

Unlike traditional businesses, where revenue streams are often straightforward (product sales, service charges, etc.), social enterprises need a keen eye for funding strategies. They must balance commercial revenue with impact-driven funding sources, such as:

• Grants and Impact Investments – Many organizations and investors fund social businesses with measurable impact.
• Government Schemes and Subsidies – Policies in India encourage businesses in rural development, renewable energy, and financial inclusion.
• Crowdfunding and Community Support – People are more willing to support enterprises with a social cause.
• Hybrid Revenue Models – A mix of product/service sales and external funding ensures sustainability.

Marketing and Branding: Selling an Idea, Not Just a Product

One major difference between social enterprises and traditional businesses is what they sell. A for-profit business sells a product or service, while a social enterprise sells a concept, an impact, and a movement.

This makes marketing and branding even more crucial. Unlike traditional businesses, where customers buy based on features and pricing, social enterprises need to connect with emotions, values, and community-driven storytelling.

Key marketing strategies for social enterprises include:

• Impact-driven storytelling – Share real-life stories of how your business is changing lives.
• Community engagement – Involve local leaders and influencers to spread the message.
• Partnerships with NGOs and policymakers – Leverage existing networks to reach wider audiences.
• Digital awareness – Use social media, crowdfunding platforms, and influencer marketing to reach socially conscious buyers.

Brands like Amul and Fabindia have successfully built strong narratives around rural empowerment, proving that a good story can turn a business into a movement.

The Founder’s Passion: The Heart of Social Entrepreneurship

Starting a social enterprise is far more challenging than running a regular business. It requires resilience, deep-rooted passion, and long-term vision. Unlike a traditional business, where profitability is the ultimate goal, social entrepreneurs must navigate the delicate balance between profit and purpose.

Many social enterprises fail because their founders either:
Focus too much on the cause and neglect financial sustainability.
Focus too much on profits and lose sight of impact.

• Successful social enterprises are led by mission-driven entrepreneurs who:
• Stay committed to their cause despite financial challenges.
• Continuously adapt their business model to remain sustainable.
• Build strong teams that share the same vision.

The Balance Between Profit and Purpose

A common misconception is that a social enterprise shouldn’t make money. But if an enterprise isn’t profitable, it won’t last. The challenge is to create a self-sustaining model where profit fuels growth and impact, rather than taking away from it.

The best example of this balance is Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in India. They lend small amounts to rural entrepreneurs, ensuring financial inclusion while earning sustainable profits. This model has lifted millions out of poverty while remaining commercially viable.

As rural India continues to evolve, social enterprises will play a key role in shaping its future. They are not just businesses, not just charities—but a powerful hybrid of both.

For India to truly progress, we need more mission-driven businesses that can create impact at scale—ones that don’t just survive on donations but thrive on innovation and sustainability.

Let’s build businesses that matter.

The last time I visited Varanasi during the Ardh Kumbh, I had wanted to make it to Prayagraj, but somehow, it didn’t happen. This time, however, I wasn’t going to miss out on Mahakumbh—an event that happens only once in 144 years. Initially, I didn’t give it much thought. Sure, I knew it was happening, but it wasn’t something I actively planned for. However, as the days went by, social media changed the whole scenario. Suddenly, it felt like everyone was talking about it, and the fear of missing out hit hard.

As someone who has studied marketing, I was fascinated by how this spiritual gathering was transforming into one of the largest human congregations on Earth. It wasn’t just a religious event; it was a movement, a phenomenon that was uniting people from all walks of life.

The Spontaneous Plan That Turned Into a Grand Expedition

I hadn’t really gotten into serious planning until my friend, Guru, called. “Flights are too expensive, and trains are all booked. Let’s drive!” It sounded crazy at first, but when I casually mentioned it at home, my wife’s excitement was through the roof. Surprisingly, Guru’s family was equally thrilled. And just like that, we decided—we were driving to Mahakumbh!

Once the plan was set, the excitement spread like wildfire. A couple of friends from Mysore—Santhosh, Shalini, Bharat, and Rashmi—jumped in. Santhosh had a friend who had already made a few trips and gave us valuable insights on the best dates. Meanwhile, hearing about our road trip, my sister, brother-in-law, and a cousin’s family from Sakaleshpur also decided to join. The group was growing fast!

The final surprise came when I mentioned our plan to Leelakrishna during a customer meeting. Without a second thought, he called his wife and parents, and within minutes, they were in! This wasn’t just a trip anymore; it was turning into a yatra.

We created a WhatsApp group to coordinate plans, while the ladies formed a separate group to sort out the packing essentials. Knowing the kind of traffic jams we might encounter near Prayagraj, we stocked up on food, tents, and other necessities.

Hitting the Road: A Journey of Faith and Fun

On the night of the 14th, six of us started from Mysore and reached Bangalore. The next morning, three cars hit the road. We wanted to start by 5:30 AM but—like every road trip—we ended up rolling out by 8:30 AM. Gathering at Hebbal, we began our journey with a loud chant of Har Har Mahadev!

The plan was to reach Adilabad by night. Meanwhile, Leela, who was still unsure about joining due to illness, called us at noon with a surprising update—he had already left and was heading to Hyderabad to pick up his parents! His determination was inspiring. By the time we reached Adilabad around midnight, Leela had joined us, and his parents instantly became the motivators of our trip.

The second day saw us heading toward Satna, where we were hosted by Suneet and Manish’s families. Their warmth and hospitality made our stay comfortable, and over a delicious home-cooked dinner, we shared stories and laughed late into the night. Initially, the plan was to start for Prayagraj in the early morning, but as plans go, we decided to take it easy and left in the afternoon.

The Last Stretch: Chaos, Traffic, and an Unforgettable Snan

As expected, the final stretch to Prayagraj was challenging. Traffic was insane, and we were stuck in jams for hours. About 20 km away from the city, we hit a major roadblock that held us for nearly three hours. Moving inch by inch, exhausted but excited, we finally reached our Airbnb at 2 AM.

Despite the fatigue, we knew what we had come for. The next morning, we arranged for autos to take us to Sangam for the sacred snan (holy dip). There was confusion about boats, long queues, and overflowing crowds, but none of it mattered when we finally found a spot to take the holy dip. Standing in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati, we chanted Har Har Gange and felt the divine energy of the moment.

Returning to our Airbnb, we were welcomed with a sumptuous homemade meal prepared by our host. That simple meal, after such a surreal experience, felt more fulfilling than anything else. Though we had initially planned to visit Ayodhya and Varanasi, the sheer crowd influx made us rethink. We decided to skip and start our journey back.

The Journey Back: Unexpected Adventures

Getting out of Prayagraj wasn’t easy. Traffic jams, long waits, and navigating the chaotic roads took its toll. We finally managed to exit the city after 3-4 hours of struggle and decided to halt at Rewa. However, luck wasn’t on our side when it came to finding hotel rooms. With no other option, we crashed at a roadside dhaba, sipping tea at 3 AM, sharing stories under the night sky—an experience in itself!

By morning, we continued toward Jabalpur, stopping at the breathtaking Bhedaghat. The mesmerizing beauty of the Narmada river, the marble rocks, and a short cable car ride were unexpected but delightful detours. From there, we drove to Adilabad for another night’s rest before making our final leg of the journey.

Since it was a Thursday, we made a spontaneous decision to visit Mantralayam before heading home. The timing was perfect, and we were blessed to attend the pooja and have a peaceful darshan at the temple. Finally, with full hearts and unforgettable memories, we returned to Bangalore.

Reflections: A Trip That Taught Me More Than Just Travel

This journey was more than just a road trip—it was an experience of faith, unity, and the incredible transformation of India. The infrastructure, the well-organized arrangements at Mahakumbh, and the seamless management of such a massive gathering left me in awe. Hats off to Modiji, Nitin Gadkari, and Yogiji—without their vision and execution, such a grand event wouldn’t have been possible.

Most importantly, this trip reaffirmed the power of belief, culture, and community. Despite all odds, we made it. And as I look back, I realize that Mahakumbh was not just about taking a holy dip; it was about witnessing how deeply connected we are as a nation, bound by our shared faith and traditions.

I went in as a traveler. I returned with stories, lessons, and a renewed sense of belonging.

#HarHarMahadev #mahakumbh2025 #journey

That moment made me realize a stark gap in our education system. We expect every citizen to abide by the law, yet we never actually teach the law in schools. Science, mathematics, and technology are given immense importance—and rightfully so, as they drive innovation and progress. But what good is innovation if we don’t know how to safeguard it? We celebrate discoveries, startups, and intellectual breakthroughs, but most people remain clueless about their legal rights, responsibilities, and the very framework that governs society.

An Unfortunate Gap in Awareness

Over the years, I have taken the effort to educate myself about the legal system, but I can’t help but feel that the journey could have started much earlier. Imagine how different things would be if we introduced basic legal education in schools. If students learned about fundamental rights, contracts, consumer laws, and digital privacy, they would be far better equipped to navigate real-life situations. Instead, most people only encounter the legal system when they are forced to—when facing a dispute, a crisis, or an unforeseen complication.

This gap in legal awareness is evident in many ways. Recently, we’ve seen an increasing number of professionals—especially in the tech industry—getting embroiled in domestic or workplace legal battles without knowing where to turn. Many don’t understand marital laws, employment contracts, or even the legalities of social media interactions. In the digital age, where cyber fraud, data privacy violations, and contractual disputes are rampant, legal ignorance is not just unfortunate—it’s dangerous.

Why Law Education is Fundamental

Law is not just for lawyers; it’s for everyone. It affects every aspect of our lives—from renting a house to signing an employment contract, from starting a business to handling personal disputes. Yet, most people remain unaware of their rights and obligations. This ignorance often leads to exploitation, delays in justice, and unnecessary legal troubles.

Countries that incorporate legal studies into their basic education create more informed and responsible citizens. If students in India were taught the basics of the Constitution, criminal and civil law, consumer rights, and cyber laws, they would be better prepared to handle real-world challenges. Just as we learn first aid to handle medical emergencies, we should learn legal basics to handle life’s inevitable legal situations.

It is high time we shift our focus and recognize the importance of legal literacy. Schools should introduce fundamental legal studies, not as an optional subject, but as an essential part of the curriculum. Awareness campaigns, workshops, and interactive sessions with legal professionals should be commonplace. Imagine if every student graduated with a basic understanding of their legal rights—how much more empowered our society would be!

The law is not meant to be intimidating or exclusive; it is meant to protect and guide us. But for that to happen, we need to bridge the knowledge gap. I learned this the hard way, but I hope future generations won’t have to. Legal education should not be an afterthought—it should be a fundamental part of our learning journey from an early age.

Every great business begins as a simple idea—an idea fueled by passion, purpose, and a vision for change. But transforming that idea into a business that truly makes an impact requires more than just enthusiasm. It demands risk taking abilities, strategic thinking, resilience, and an open mind to explore what it takes to create value in the world.

In today’s fast-evolving entrepreneurial landscape, success isn’t just about launching a company; it’s about building something that matters. The most successful businesses are those that solve real problems, serve communities, and create lasting change. So, how can entrepreneurs turn their ideas into impactful businesses?

Start with Purpose, Not Just Profit

A business that matters starts with a clear purpose. While profitability is essential for sustainability, the driving force behind a successful venture should be a meaningful mission. Companies that prioritize purpose over short-term gains tend to build stronger customer loyalty, attract top talent, and achieve long-term success.

Think about companies like Tesla, which isn’t just selling cars but is on a mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. Or Patagonia, a brand that integrates environmental activism into its core business strategy. These companies thrive because their missions resonate deeply with their customers.

As an entrepreneur, ask yourself: What problem am I solving? Who am I helping? Why does this business exist beyond making money? When your business is rooted in a strong purpose, it becomes easier to stay motivated, make strategic decisions, and attract people who believe in your vision.

Build a Strong Foundation

Once you have a compelling purpose, the next step is to build a solid foundation. This starts with understanding your market, refining your business model, and ensuring that your idea aligns with real-world needs. Too often, entrepreneurs fall in love with their ideas without testing whether there’s a demand for them.

Market research, customer feedback, and early prototyping are essential in this phase. Engage with potential customers, validate your assumptions, and be open to pivoting if necessary. Some of the most successful companies started with one idea and evolved into something different based on market needs.

Take Instagram, for example. It started as a check-in app called Burbn before the founders realized that users were more interested in sharing photos. By paying attention to user behavior, they shifted their focus, and the rest is history. The key is to remain flexible and let real-world insights shape your business.

Scaling with Strategy

Turning an idea into an impactful business is not just about launching—it’s about scaling effectively. Many startups fail not because their idea is bad but because they lack a clear growth strategy. Growth requires the right mix of innovation, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability.

Technology plays a crucial role in scaling. Whether it’s leveraging automation, AI, or data analytics, smart entrepreneurs use technology to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. Equally important is building the right team. As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Surround yourself with people who share your vision and complement your skills.

Funding is another major factor in scaling. While bootstrapping works for some, others may need external funding from investors, venture capital, or grants. The key is to align your funding strategy with your business goals and maintain financial discipline to ensure sustainable growth.

Creating a Lasting Impact

Beyond financial success, what truly sets great businesses apart is the impact they create. In today’s world, customers and investors are increasingly drawn to companies that prioritize social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical business practices. Startups focusing on renewable energy, education, and healthcare are proving that impact-driven businesses are the future.

As an entrepreneur, think beyond short-term gains and focus on the legacy you want to leave behind. How does your business contribute to a better world? What values will define your company culture? When you build with impact in mind, you create a brand that stands the test of time.

One such great soul who left his mark on society and created a revolution in education in the Mysuru region was Shr. T.S Subbanna, also known as Saravajanika Subbanna. His legacy lives on, and his contributions to education continue to have a profound impact even today. Subbanna’s vision for education was to provide access to quality education to all, regardless of their social or economic background. With this goal in mind, he established a public hostel for students from economically weaker sections of society. This hostel was unique because it brought together students from all faiths and denominations to live and study together.

T.S. Subbanna was a Gandhian, freedom fighter, and social activist who started public hostels and schools (Sarvajanika Sikshana Samsthe) in Mysuru. He was born in 1905 in Taĝaduru village, Nanjangud taluk. His father Eshwarappa was the chief priest at the Ankanatheshwara Temple in Taĝaduru. His mother Parvatamma was a devout and pious lady.

Subbanna had his preliminary schooling at Taĝaduru Government School. Then the family moved to Mysuru for his further education. While in Mysuru, Subbanna worked part-time as a priest. He was admitted to Wesley Mission High School. Venkatakrishnayya was one of the senior teachers who had a profound impact on him. British teachers at Wesley School tried to persuade students like Subbanna to focus on their academics instead of spending time in the freedom movement. But Subbanna had already come under the influence of freedom fighters like M.N. Jois, Sharada Prasad, Agaram Ramayya, Subramanyam and Dasappa. Subbanna and friends convened as the ‘Tilak Sangha’ to share news about freedom fighters nationwide.

Subbanna participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement at Sirsi, Siddapur and Ankola. Subbanna’s mother, in an attempt to distract her son from the freedom struggle, tried to get him married but this went in vain instead Subbanna commits himself to the freedom struggle and his fierce freedom fight shook the Britishers.  Interestingly, Subbanna is remembered to have dressed as a woman in a saree to escape being caught, while participating in a protest march passing in front of Hardwicke High School, Mysuru. He managed to give the Police a slip and made it to Subbarayana Kere to hoist the Indian Flag! On another occasion, while being pursued, he ran into a Coal Plant and smeared himself with coal soot and succeeded in evading arrest! Subbanna was among the freedom fighters to hoist the Flag at Shivapura in Maddur. Subbanna was greatly inspired by Gandhian ideals he made his way to Sabarmati Ashram, where he spent time imbibing the Gandhian way of life directly from the Ghandhiji himself!.

In 1930, he returned to Mysuru on the advice of Gandhi and started an initiative to provide shelter to poor and orphaned children, which later came to be known as Sarvajanika Shikshana Samsthe. He established eleven schools and two hostels in and around Mysuru, recognizing the need to educate women and he established dedicated girls’ school and hostel. Many rural poor and orphans found the Sarvajanika hostel to be their home and later achieved great success in their lives, including many well-known writers, bureaucrats, doctors, engineers, and politicians. With his determination and commitment to building the nation, he built an institution and an army of educated and culturally valued citizens.

The king of Mysuru, Jayachamaraja Wadiyar, wanted to honour him with the ‘Samaja Seva’ award. It is interesting to note that he was offered many recognitions and government positions, but he politely declined them all. He solely relied on public donations to build the institute.

Subbanna believed that education was not just about academic excellence but also about inculcating values and virtues that would help students become responsible and empathetic citizens. Subbanna remained committed to his vision of providing education to those who needed it the most. He politely declined admission requests from the affluent class, pointing out that the public resources were meant to nurture the poor souls who had no one else to turn to.

Despite revolutionizing education in the Mysuru region, T.S Subbanna remained steadfast in his commitment to selfless service. He adhered to a simple dress code, wearing only a single piece of dhoti, and prohibited taking his photographs, we hardly find his two photographs. He also fondly referred to his institute as the ‘Sarvajanika Shikshana Samsthe’, which translates to the ‘Public Education Institute’ which was meant for the general public.

Subbanna’s impact on education in the Mysuru region continues to be felt even today, and his legacy serves as an inspiration for those who seek to make a positive impact on society. Even today, the Sarvajanika Shikshana Samsthe runs schools which offer free education and hostels across many rural areas.

He was a great soul who dedicated his life to the betterment of society, and his contributions will always be remembered with gratitude and admiration.

Rural Connectivity

We all know how the current mobile connectivity has transformed our lives, with the introduction of 5G we may start seeing possibilities which were unheard of, the most significant benefit of 5G technology for Bharat is its potential to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. Currently, a large portion of the Indian population resides in rural areas, where access to high-speed internet and digital services is limited. However, with 5G technology, rural areas can be connected to the rest of the world at previously unimaginable speeds. Trust me a day might come when our gig and tech workers would shift to villages for more peaceful living and yet stay connected.

5G networks are capable of providing speeds up to 100 times faster than current 4G networks. This means that rural areas can enjoy the same level of connectivity as urban areas, making it possible for farmers and other rural entrepreneurs to participate in the digital economy. This will have a significant impact on the growth of rural businesses and the overall economy of Bharat.

Commerce

Another area where 5G technology can have a significant impact is e-commerce. With the rise of e-commerce, more and more consumers are turning to online shopping. However, slow internet speeds in some parts of the country can make it difficult for consumers to access these platforms. With 5G technology, online shopping can become a more seamless experience for consumers, particularly in rural areas. High-speed internet will make it possible for consumers to browse and purchase products quickly and efficiently, regardless of their location. This will not only benefit consumers but also small businesses that rely on e-commerce platforms to reach a wider audience. I am sure 5G would add wings to ONDC (Open Network for Digital Economy) an initiative from the central government.

Healthcare

5G can enable remote consultations, telemedicine, and virtual surgeries. This can significantly improve access to medical services, particularly in rural areas with limited healthcare infrastructure. 5G can also enable the use of connected medical devices that can monitor patients’ health in real-time, alerting healthcare professionals to any potential issues. The technology can also facilitate medical education and training, enabling healthcare professionals in Bharat to stay up to date with the latest medical practices and technologies. This major upgrade in connectivity can enhance the impact of policies and schemes such as Ayushman Bharath, National Digital Health Mission etc.

Education

The impact of 5G technology on education in Bharat cannot be overstated. With high-speed internet, students in rural areas can access online learning resources previously unavailable. This can help bridge the gap in educational outcomes between urban and rural areas and ensure that all students have access to the same educational opportunities.

In addition, 5G technology can enable the delivery of high-quality video content that can enhance the learning experience for students. This can include virtual reality experiences that can transport students to different parts of the world, bringing their lessons to life in a way that was not possible before.

While we discuss Freebies we should not get confused with well-thought welfare schemes! which can bring transformational change in society one such example is the mid-day meal program which was pioneered by Mr. K. Kamaraj and later adopted by many state and central Govt. Mid-day meal scheme. This has become an important scheme to improve education and has yielded a great long-term impact on the overall economy. However, many of the current freebie promises seem ill-intended,  short-sighted and designed for quick wins in elections. One might ask, so what?

Firstly, freebies and subsidies create a culture of entitlement among the people. Instead of encouraging people to work hard and earn a living, these promises make people dependent on the government for their basic needs. This phenomenon can be seen in both Urban and Rural parts of Bharat and this may not just create a youth population which is non-productive today but a population which may turn out to be a huge liability in later years too. A young county like ours shall struggle to carry this huge burden.  

Secondly, these promises often lead to a vicious cycle of debt for the government. Freebies and subsidies require a significant amount of money from the government’s coffers, which can put a strain on the country’s finances. In order to fulfil these promises, the government may resort to borrowing, which leads to an increase in the national and state debt. This, in turn, can lead to inflation, higher taxes, and a weaker economy.

Thirdly, freebies and subsidies often have unintended consequences that can be harmful to society. For example, while free electricity to farmers is an encouraging initiative, if not administered right, it may also bring huge impacts such as overuse, groundwater depletion, etc. Similarly, loan waivers can create moral hazards and encourage irresponsible borrowing and lending practices. Political freebie promises in India are a major setback for social improvement and nation-building. Instead of offering freebies and subsidies, political parties should focus on creating an environment of equal opportunity and growth for all citizens. This can be achieved through investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, as well as by creating a business-friendly environment that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.