tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3753944667344719902024-03-05T13:27:41.965+05:30Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwani's BlogDr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.comBlogger141125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-67566299857376077132023-12-23T19:33:00.000+05:302023-12-23T19:33:27.954+05:30Real Life use-case of the Withings ScanWatch ECG feature ... and the eSim has a major flaw!Disclaimer:<br>
I know that the Withings ScanWatch is NOT a product sold in India, and the ECG feature is unavailable to all users. It is 'certified' to be useful for users in some countries only! My review is not meant to challenge any claims or refute any marketing material published by Withings for any of their ScanWatch models.<br>
<br>
<b>Prelude:</b><br>
Those who know me or discuss tech with me regularly would be well aware of my fixation for:<br>
1. Not wearing 'blackholes' or blank black screens<br>
2. Strong aversion to 'charging' watches<br>
and<br>
3. Desire for 'Hybrid Watches'.<br>
<br>
Some of you may also have borne the brunt of my gross misadventure with the Titan Connected X (again, the X signifies the hybrid).<br>
<br>
After Casio's recent orphaning of the ProTrek line-up, my infatuation with the Garmin Instinct Crossover Solar almost reached obsession levels.
Months of price-tracking and waiting for the right opportunity bore fruit. It was finally at a price point I felt to be VFM.
Sadly, as luck would have it, the price was perfect, but only in the US of A ... and I need acquaintances to help me procure one!<br>
<br>
Randomly, out of the blue, an opportunity presented itself in the form of a very, very dear friend, but via a UK channel.
Garmin prices matched the digits/numbers but not the symbol in front of the numbers. Shattered! It's too much of a stretch to make.<br>
A little desperation made me start looking at other options.<br>
While trying to figure out which brands were partial to this side of the pond, I came across an old flame... the Withings ScanWatch and Steel HR. The old flame had upgraded itself with new sensors and new designs. I was instantly drooling at the ScanWatch Nova and the ScanWatch 2. (The ScanWatch Lite did not excite me at all).<br>
A lot of research started on a war footing. I had a folder full of data from the Nokia Steel HR days (2016-2017) before it was repurchased and renamed to the original Withings brand.<br>
The new watches had a slightly better design, better screen, temperature sensor (amongst hardware changes), and a few software tweaks.
What I would need to include from the GICS: Solar charging, ABC sensor, and rugged nature (not exactly good). <br>
I would get a discreet display and super sleek design + ECG functionality!<br>
<br>
I had to try the ECG feature due to my interest in healthcare tech.<br>
Around the same time, my father rejected a Tissot PRX (auto), chimed in with my enthusiasm and agreed to the ScanWatch Nova as a more 'useful' product for the price. <br>
While going through the 'Beta mann me laddoo photos phase' and 'Chan se tooth jo koi sapna phase' together, I realised I was too emotionally invested in the decision. I sought some perspective from individuals whose opinions and acumen I genuinely respect.<br>
This got me some glowing reviews for the Withings and some new curiosity. <br>
But the best of all - it saved me hundreds of dollars!<br>
A sheer stroke of luck, a fellow tech connoisseur, and a swift, warm, and whole-heartedly wholesome deal brought a ScanWatch one on my wrist in less than 48 hours and at 1/3rd the price.<br>
<br>
<b>The Use Case</b>
The watch, which can most rightfully be called one, is a B-E-A-utiful. Smooth design, very tastefully done. It works exactly as advertised. Reasonably accurate. It is a head-turner, a conversation starter, and yet genuinely functional.<br>
<br>
Within the first 12 hours, I had decided that sooner or later, this needed to find its way on my Dad's wrist, and I should keep my wrist open to pursue the Garmin whenever possible.<br>
So, after a few days, I urged him to try it on. So far, the ECG feature has yet to work for me. The watch kept throwing up a report 'Inconclusive' because my heart rate was above 100. Unknown to me, I would see a lot more of this. Over the next few days, my heart rate spiked to 140+ for a prolonged duration, owing to a massive viral infection with a high rate of fever. But, to re-check the ECG feature, I tried it on my father's wrist. In reality, this was the first 'Normal' ECG I recorded on the app, and I got to explore the feature properly.<br>
I was happy and further resolved that this was best suited for him.<br>
<br>
Fast forward a few days later. My viral fever has settled, taking a significant toll on my health, but finally, my heart rate was in the 76 range, and I managed to record my first ever 'normal' ECG on the Withings ScanWatch.<br>
<br>
The next day, at 6:12 AM, my Dad laboriously walks into my room and feebly asks me to check his ECG on the ScanWatch. He was in pain. I sprung to action.<br>
ECG showed Inconclusive. 'Recording too noisy'<br>
Second attempt: Inconclusive. 'Heart rate above 100'<br>
<br>
No, the App did NOT detect an 'abnormality' as it is trained to detect Atrial fibrillation only.<br>
But, what it did do - was alert me that something was amiss, and I could browse some segments of the ECG on the screen.<br>
I instantly knew something was not right.<br>
This device always reads this person's ECG as 'normal'. His resting HR can't be 100. Brought out the sphygmomanometer. 180/120
Clinical correlation - not just machine readings - things were NOT fine.<br>
No further time is wasted; we have swung into action immediately.<br>
I grabbed my go-bag and left straight for the hospital. (Ambulance didn't come - at all - wasted 7 minutes).<br>
Extremely callous parking by some society member ensured I wasted another 5 minutes trying unsuccessfully to take my car out.<br>
Luckily, I got a cab. I made various calls in that cab ride - most important to the second pillar of my life, while I held on tightly to the first.<br>
Seven minutes later, the proper ECG at the hospital confirmed the worst - Myocardial infarction. Active. BP 180/110. Pulse 52.<br>
<br>
Over the next 90 minutes, some smart-thinking, some genuinely talented good people, and lots and lots of prayers and good wishes got us through an OT in the nick of time.<br>
Thanks to some skilled and experienced hands, the resultant outcome was worth celebrating!<br>
<br>
So - while the ScanWatch could <i>not</i> detect the MI, using it repeatedly and regularly could indicate something 'abnormal'—a deviation from normal. Then, clinical judgement and common sense have to play their respective roles to have favourable outcomes.<br>
<br><br>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmlj6VFySCJ4OcwwDj6gc8mKDRSmfaMDfH0x-zye2WA-kyGyfBlcbw55kOuj7VTS078cUfYuO-S0Ex5ettxMjHcQ1C6I709ss0Qz3Ni0kQgISiU5LQeDme5h1EPfq1KacQkDaKq_pH5BVBFC6V3_0LubpiIdGlb73EMdu4ZyOkgvhgf13gz4tVg36T_0O/s1280/photo_2023-12-23%2019.31.44.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="657" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmlj6VFySCJ4OcwwDj6gc8mKDRSmfaMDfH0x-zye2WA-kyGyfBlcbw55kOuj7VTS078cUfYuO-S0Ex5ettxMjHcQ1C6I709ss0Qz3Ni0kQgISiU5LQeDme5h1EPfq1KacQkDaKq_pH5BVBFC6V3_0LubpiIdGlb73EMdu4ZyOkgvhgf13gz4tVg36T_0O/s320/photo_2023-12-23%2019.31.44.jpeg"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX04InV5Eh11OMgbc-jWCp9kXeY58FPVxkRBixlVwfALVQN_Ga7KHcwRoWXv3i_3xw3Smh9zunGrFk991P4h5-W3dY9AS7uOXGv4E-5LeEWrWN9CL93PYKvRgcFQszs0OF5xhcym6TdmlAANSqnSjWJp1j8TJSmRYSACayiPsPzbfXzg4eUDPhny3tP-0Z/s1280/photo_2023-12-23%2019.31.45.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="688" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX04InV5Eh11OMgbc-jWCp9kXeY58FPVxkRBixlVwfALVQN_Ga7KHcwRoWXv3i_3xw3Smh9zunGrFk991P4h5-W3dY9AS7uOXGv4E-5LeEWrWN9CL93PYKvRgcFQszs0OF5xhcym6TdmlAANSqnSjWJp1j8TJSmRYSACayiPsPzbfXzg4eUDPhny3tP-0Z/s320/photo_2023-12-23%2019.31.45.jpeg"/></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVtZjlDqepX6u_l1aK8OFjBf-rpL26qnuzPD17dI_Qs4G_r3JaxSMFPqNUoQ8Kg8H-lpcoFQIQ4Ws1n12-h1qEhQhkFKoU3TQNVsRO1gbDWgm4qlvHDFPAIHfaQZNr8nNQ8G-wuSanaREHeuyUcf91OWeOPSxA5264jhWCVu9SiiCcLrypbN3Fyx-ir2e/s1280/photo_2023-12-23%2019.31.47.jpeg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="320" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="675" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVtZjlDqepX6u_l1aK8OFjBf-rpL26qnuzPD17dI_Qs4G_r3JaxSMFPqNUoQ8Kg8H-lpcoFQIQ4Ws1n12-h1qEhQhkFKoU3TQNVsRO1gbDWgm4qlvHDFPAIHfaQZNr8nNQ8G-wuSanaREHeuyUcf91OWeOPSxA5264jhWCVu9SiiCcLrypbN3Fyx-ir2e/s320/photo_2023-12-23%2019.31.47.jpeg"/></a></div>
<b>The Future</b><br>
What I would love to have in such personal fitness - or rather, more importantly - health tracking devices:<br>
1. Fall Detection<br>
2. Heart Rate<br>
3. SpO2<br>
4. Blood Pressure<br>
5. Temperature Sensor<br>
6. eSIM - to enable calling and data (why? #7)<br>
7. Send out an SOS message or call upon fall detection or in case of a manual SOS trigger<br>
8. Inbuilt GPS - for better location tracking<br>
9. NFC and some 'Pay' features. Very useful in some scenarios.<br>
<br>
Such a device would be helpful for both senior citizens and children (tracking).<br>
<br>
<b>The eSIM issue:</b><br>
Simple use case. Instead of a full-fledged smartphone, I wanted to give someone their number in a 'feature phone' to ensure zero distractions, notifications, or WhatsApp but allow the primary purpose of a phone - communication.<br>
I had recently acquired the 'scarce' Jio Phone Prima for such days. Works well. (different topic).<br>
But that's where the plan hit a significant roadblock!<br>
How do you transfer an eSIM to a physical SIM for a dumb phone in emergencies? <br>
It is too much of a task to visit a store to go and convert the SIM.<br>
Jio, Airtel, and late-to-the-party Vi have some decent options to get an eSIM from a physical SIM online - without visiting the store.
But the reverse? That is not possible.<br>
This may seem like a rare, one-off incident. Right?<br>
Well... no. Not exactly. Just a couple of months ago, I managed to 'drown' a phone (again, different story, some other time) and was stuck without a 'phone' because I didn't have a SIM that I could put in another feature phone or smartphone (which was not capable of eSIMs). There was no MSP store for about 60 km.<br>
I will be converting all my eSIMs to physical SIMS, except, of course, the iPhone - because that's the only way to have 'Dual SIM' on my particular Indian-origin iPhones... and wait for the Tricorder to become a wrist-based reality. <br>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-17588629210751584362023-01-31T16:50:00.013+05:302023-12-15T08:45:48.348+05:30The Backpacker's backpack buying experience...<b>The Backpacker's backpack buying experience...</b>
<br>
<br>
===============
<br>
<b>Update:</b>
<i>Although the brand 'offers' 8 years of warranty on their products, the materials used are just not built-to-last.
<br>
Poorly designed and bad choice of materials for the friction and contact points.<br>
In less than a year of usage, my bad is already tearing (including the second layer of lining) from multiple points.<br>
The brand refuses to honour warranty claims on the grounds of 'wear and tear'.<br>
If a 3.5k bag performs so badly in less than a year then it is clearly not built right.<br>
The Seneca Mohawk model, in particular, seems to be a one-off stock dumping activity. Be warned!<br>
Even though I was promised a rain cover (to purchase), after waiting for 7 months, I am told there won't be one available.<br>
This particular model does not feature in the list of models when raising a ticket for the warranty claim. Ergo, doesn't seem to be a popular one or the brand does not seem to be serious about it.<br>
<br>===============</i>
<br>
<br>
You know how they say "once a biker, always a biker".<br>
Well, I believe it also applies to: "One a hiker, always a hiker".<br>
Or maybe, that's what I use to justify my propensity for backpacks.<br>
Be it the daily commute, an out-of-town meeting, or even a vacation, I tend to have the same backpack all the time.
(except when on a proper trail/trek/hike - there's a different one for that)<br>
Since 2009, I have had this 'one bag/one backpack' system.<br>
<br>
I have tried messenger bags and even a briefcase-style bag, but there's something about being handsfree, not overloading one side, and just being symmetrically balanced that just makes backpacks perfect.<br>
<br>
Not to mention, the ability to gobble up whatever I throw at it. (which, I admit, is a lot).
Regularly reading EDC (https://everydaycarry.com/) has ensured that many of the things I carry are multi-function. Nevertheless, it is still - quite a bit.<br>
<br>
Without hesitation, I always insist for <b>Function</b> over <b>Form</b>. Not even a question. But thanks to the better half, who is significantly better inclined at aesthetics than myself, I have learnt to give due importance to 'form'.
I also like things that are built to last. Rugged, can take abuse, do what they are supposed to, without being delicate darlings or giving up in the middle.<br>
<br>
My last backpack survived close to 2000 days and more than 50,000 km of travel across different modes of transport.
<br>
For the last 6 months, it is on ventilator support and it needed to be replaced. Sadly, I couldn't find the 'right' one and it just kept getting repaired - again and again.
<br>
The right one? 25L plus, well padded, good laptop space. Not too many compartments that eat up more space than creating it. No fancy gimmicks. Looks clean, minimalist, and yet classy enough to walk into a conference room with it. Goes without saying, it needs to be black.
<br>
Having narrowed it down to a Samsonite Spectrolite since June 2022, it was utterly disappointing the way Samsonite treats the Indian market. Having spoken to a bunch of dealers and even someone in charge of the distribution for the Mumbai region, one thing was clear - Samsonite doesn't treat India as seriously as they should. Tweets and emails seldom met with replies. If any, from wrong departments in other parts of the world, just forward the query to other counterparts, round and round. The dealers themselves have coyly admitted that stocks are scarce and models randomly get deleted from the line-up.<br>
<br>
I chased the Vigon II across 17 stores, including one at the airport. Couldn't get my hands on it. It has been close to a year since Samsonite launched the Spectrolite 3.0 in European markets, but no one here has a clue when it is to be launched here. The 2.0 has not been available in black for a quarter now. Given that Samsonite manufactures everything in China, I was asked to wait till mid-Jan for a stock update. To date, nothing.<br>
Samsonite's lackadaisical attitude and treatment of India as a market has lost them a customer who waited 6 months for a backpack.
<br><br>
Then came Mokobara. Damn their designs are too good! Drool! Especially the backpack in black, was just too sexy to resist. Not too fond of the yellow lining used inside.
<br>
After resisting temptation for a long time, I ordered their backpack. Damn, what a severe case of form over function. The shoulder strap design is completely wrong and lifeless. There is no padding, and no support, and anyone who designs backpacks in their right mind, cannot excuse such straps.<br>
<br>
<i>It is like the guys at Tata motors who slapped on the legendary Safari badge to an FWD vehicle with no real 4x4 and zero usable boot space. If you know how to make an SUV, then you can't make something like this</i>.<br>
<br>
Same way, if you truly want to make a backpack, then you can't have straps so thin. Disappointed, the Mokobara was returned and respectfully refunded. Full points to them for a smooth e-commerce experience. (& damn pretty designs). After that, I didn't even give Scarters a chance to be honest.
<br><br>
Carbonado looked good for a bit, but the Home minister deemed it as unfit for carrying to the clinic or a conference room. Can't argue with that.
<br>
Everywhere else I looked - it was all just rebranded Chinese stuff. Okami Wolf, Alpha Hunter, and a dozen-odd such fancy names with eerily similar product images and features.
<br>
Still searching for the right one, I happened to come across an ad on Instagram. Or should I say the ad came to me? (Knowing how exactly this works).
Road Gods from the famous Gods series had come up with a new one - Seneca - a partnership with Mohawk.
The very first thing that got me hooked was this post below their product. (look at the image attached below).
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4vWADyXSZSdkEUcnYdx0Z45LRn68vCTsWetZlucueBDyGIAc4riNKbm0KbLqWLpCu34THTO_nmZmI1pb3GIxndFI0FkU8UPlsVP9PqD7aAAErckxUEdXYha_7xZ-IVbmmxY4ELAB9KSXtY7EklRIqgKncjjUmQ25iPLZdSnIkJ9KRKoi2D8Tep80-w/s1600/Screenshot%202023-01-31%20at%204.41.40%20PM.png" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4vWADyXSZSdkEUcnYdx0Z45LRn68vCTsWetZlucueBDyGIAc4riNKbm0KbLqWLpCu34THTO_nmZmI1pb3GIxndFI0FkU8UPlsVP9PqD7aAAErckxUEdXYha_7xZ-IVbmmxY4ELAB9KSXtY7EklRIqgKncjjUmQ25iPLZdSnIkJ9KRKoi2D8Tep80-w/s1600/Screenshot%202023-01-31%20at%204.41.40%20PM.png"/></a></div>
<br>
This was testimony that they are serious about what they do.
Loved their nomenclature style and checked with a few knowledgeable friends and colleagues who are happy users of the OG Ghost series.
<br>
I had a few queries about the product, so I dropped them an email asking about a few things. Especially, the luggage strap and rain cover. They answered all my queries, and I went ahead and ordered the backpack. It was on pre-order and is yet to be dispatched. (Feb. 6th I am told). Out of sheer exasperation, because I had still not found the 'perfect' backpack, I sent them another email, requesting the inclusion of the luggage strap at the back.
To this, they replied back! (Check the image)
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uWweqstPUK0aXs251Pwk5KWurV2k0BIS3-EkMc_reiRUKm-gQbr5Ba8TpgUZeEaidtwF9AC7KajUStIL47z_AGehzipSJI8YECvJFbAp7LAaJvQGWCxHqLYIcCH_xlBoP2-6T07dmqgOnvnA1bBZ0BekZ5qzSMnqZgxBXh3G69zmySXIuASKhMHz_Q/s1600/Screenshot%202023-01-31%20at%204.42.06%20PM.png" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="2140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8uWweqstPUK0aXs251Pwk5KWurV2k0BIS3-EkMc_reiRUKm-gQbr5Ba8TpgUZeEaidtwF9AC7KajUStIL47z_AGehzipSJI8YECvJFbAp7LAaJvQGWCxHqLYIcCH_xlBoP2-6T07dmqgOnvnA1bBZ0BekZ5qzSMnqZgxBXh3G69zmySXIuASKhMHz_Q/s1600/Screenshot%202023-01-31%20at%204.42.06%20PM.png"/></a></div>
<br>
Damn, these guys have won me over even before I receive their product. This, right here, is the true Indian entrepreneur spirit.
The ability to listen to the customer, to adapt, to accept one's shortcomings, and to do better.
<br>
This is possible, only because RoadGods does not import from China and makes them right here. If it was yet another white-labeled company, they would be sitting on 1000 pieces imported from China, and not care two hoots about a single customer like me.
This is the power of Be Indian, Buy Indian.<br>
<br>(Something I have not been shy to voice out for a decade: <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2020/05/be-indian-buy-indian.html" target="_blank">Be Indian Buy Indian Blog Post</a> )<br>
<br>
This is where I have put my money, and why I strongly feel, that there are some great enterprising Indian companies that can truly make it big, that can truly take the fight global while delivering quality to the primary consumer base - Indians.
<br>
Such gestures get a big thumbs up from me, smiling ear to ear and dedicating a 3 1/2 thousand word post just about a backpack and one company that heard me out and treated the customer with the right attitude.<br>
<br>
The team at RoadGods, I sincerely look forward to receiving this product, and it shall be my daily driver, for as long as it lasts.
No big-name brand can take away the pride of using a product that is truly Indian, as long as it is equally good.
You have my respect and my gratitude.<br>
<br>Thank you for having my back ... err... backpack.
<br>
<br>P.S. There are no links here because this is not a paid post and it is about the experience and to support the Be Indian, Buy Indian philosophy.
<b>Update: 12.02.2023</b>
Backpack received and reviewed here:<br>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe class="BLOG_video_class" allowfullscreen="" youtube-src-id="ifQ-xPcXu30" width="320" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ifQ-xPcXu30"></iframe></div><br>
<br>
Photos here:<br>
<br>
https://www.instagram.com/p/CojIg4kLHKW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link<br>
<br>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-66001487823391399232020-05-14T20:35:00.003+05:302020-05-21T17:04:42.671+05:30Be Indian ... Buy Indian<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><i>Updated on 20th May 2020</i></u></b></div>
<br />
For years, I have believed in this poignant statement. Be Indian. Buy Indian.<br />
Well before the 'Make in India' initiative provided some more viable alternatives.<br />
(Earlier posts: <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2014/09/why-tata.html" target="_blank">One,</a> <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2010/08/titan-indian-watch-brand.html" target="_blank">Two,</a> <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2011/08/letter-to-mr-ratan-tata.html" target="_blank">Three</a>)<br />
<br />
Patriotism is not subject to dates of a calendar, neither days of adversity.<br />
<br />
If we want India to be a great country, a superpower, then the Indians need to invest in it - emotionally, physically and most importantly - financially.<br />
<br />
Put your money where your mouth is.<br />
<br />
Today, more than ever, this seems to be reverberating at multiple levels.<br />
Thus, this list seems all the more relevant.<br />
<br />
<br />
This is an attempt by an individual to compile and summarize what I can <i>to the best of my knowledge</i>.<br />
<b>Any correction of oversights or newer insights will always be welcomed.</b> (Comments section or direct email)<br />
<i>As and when time permits, there is an intention to delve deeper into each company's shareholding pattern, management and ethics.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
Most importantly, the aim is to find the right balance of quality and price. No compromise!<br />
Just because it's cheap, does not mean it's not good and just because it's expensive does not always necessarily make it better.<br />
<b>Buying Indian does NOT mean you compromise on quality ... but when quality is comparable please make a conscious decision to shift your preference.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
Neither does this mean that ALL foreign firms or non-Indian companies are bad. Many of them generate a lot of employment for the Indians as well as often invest in infrastructure and help bring in new technology and practices for us to learn from.<br />
<br />
It is never wise, to turn a complete blind eye to the advantages of others, but it is always nice to know our strengths.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This list attempts to provide - options. Suggestions. Viable alternatives. Possible solutions. For anyone who seeks them.</div>
The aim is neither to enforce these options, nor discourage the others.<br />
<br />
After debating a lot, the order has been arranged in a way that from the time you open your eyes everything can be 'Indian' if you try...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Toiletries: Soap, Shampoo, Toothpaste, Powder, Perfumes, Facewash, Hair oils.</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4gch5rBhYA1VVx7MmfdE6XLmeiTpaxLEzecNCEGMmu4RYvZA2-8IaoMtMOEQ9ehi9z4WnygSZNcGK3mZrNjDt4vyJCqpsiGYBerG6F1KvB8KOK6jkM5Qh_751UE5NBS_jMB91fWFZfnu/s1600/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+20.05.02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1108" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP4gch5rBhYA1VVx7MmfdE6XLmeiTpaxLEzecNCEGMmu4RYvZA2-8IaoMtMOEQ9ehi9z4WnygSZNcGK3mZrNjDt4vyJCqpsiGYBerG6F1KvB8KOK6jkM5Qh_751UE5NBS_jMB91fWFZfnu/s400/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+20.05.02.png" width="276" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkreJPKbOHzyit4UxrsQa00jspotFMVyYSh-zX2c5XjKi1T8Zr2tmv7rZPHmQl8V8JbN4gTnB28nv0l0awm0qmwttlUp6Fg-W3Vo5USJT_Nclwn05SBggskURx0hfFGTvszSHX4MA3omu/s1600/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+20.05.07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1108" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkreJPKbOHzyit4UxrsQa00jspotFMVyYSh-zX2c5XjKi1T8Zr2tmv7rZPHmQl8V8JbN4gTnB28nv0l0awm0qmwttlUp6Fg-W3Vo5USJT_Nclwn05SBggskURx0hfFGTvszSHX4MA3omu/s400/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+20.05.07.png" width="276" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Clothes, Apparel, Footwear, Accessories</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cE0hBY3YfoJqeqPX21jyZ9ZIc_RDU63cnII6x3DmfNQNSNjcOU58ANlUozKnuAM72imv6BTYDnQiSVrFFaHEkD2MF6AnkLi6CyvC5x8rhe13h533sZDE9wuWTuGPPd1UEoRWdg2590D4/s1600/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+21.52.44.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1108" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cE0hBY3YfoJqeqPX21jyZ9ZIc_RDU63cnII6x3DmfNQNSNjcOU58ANlUozKnuAM72imv6BTYDnQiSVrFFaHEkD2MF6AnkLi6CyvC5x8rhe13h533sZDE9wuWTuGPPd1UEoRWdg2590D4/s400/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+21.52.44.png" width="276" /></a></div>
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(I personally gravitate towards vegan options - faux leather or vegan leather - but this may not hold true for everyone. We respect individual choices)<br />
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<b><u>Food & Beverages (Drinks, Biscuits, Chocolates, Eatables)</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3ciMFKbr8MZ_MPlqrVinfBb2AXuG5aQEqrEfJl2Yo31Zt3lE06I28_31JHUmeEIq84VUdW8jwcYBCeB0EflkboMDkTbc9RifXxp0BSsxWm2jL6mucXKeeTfFulLmgiOD32qYZSr9V9s2/s1600/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+20.05.17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1108" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3ciMFKbr8MZ_MPlqrVinfBb2AXuG5aQEqrEfJl2Yo31Zt3lE06I28_31JHUmeEIq84VUdW8jwcYBCeB0EflkboMDkTbc9RifXxp0BSsxWm2jL6mucXKeeTfFulLmgiOD32qYZSr9V9s2/s400/Screenshot+2020-05-14+at+20.05.17.png" width="276" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Two-wheelers / Automobiles</u></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Tata Motors </li>
<li>Mahindra & Mahindra</li>
<li>TVS</li>
<li>Hero</li>
<li>Bajaj</li>
<li>Eicher Motors - Royal Enfield</li>
<li>Ashok Leyland</li>
</ol>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Mobile Phones / Tablets</u></b><br />
<br />
We don't have a purely Indian brand at the moment. Micromax has not be very active as it used to be.<br />
Karbonn, iBall etc. are almost out of the picture.<br />
<br />
Non-Chinese = Samsung (Korea), Apple (USA), Google (USA), Asus (Taiwan), Sony (Japan), Panasonic (Japan), HTC (Taiwan).<br />
<br />
Oppo. Vivo. OnePlus is ONE company. Chinese.<br />
Xiaomi, Amazfit, Poco = One company. Chinese<br />
Huawei, Honor, RealMe = One company. Chinese.<br />
Nokia is owned by HMD - Chinese<br />
BlackBerry owned by TCL - Chinese.<br />
<br />
Many of these manufacturers DO build phones in India. Including charger and cables as well.<br />
Samsung's largest factory in the world is in India.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Laptops</u></b><br />
<br />
<i>Similar scenario like Mobile phones. Nothing worth noting ... yet.</i><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<br />
<b><i>The following categories are constantly changing. Tough to keep track. Most often than not, it's a company just re-branding existing Chinese products, not investing any effort in R&D or even design and engineering. Just marketing and re-packaging.</i></b><br />
<br />
Mobile Accessories / Bluetooth headsets / Earphones / Handsfree<br />
<br />
<br />
Cases / Sleeves / Cables<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Try to minimize work in progress during sprint - Nikolaos Raptis ..." height="320" src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1024/1*mwXHpdt6CTQHxH78dwc6NA.jpeg" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><i>Work in Progress. More research needed.</i></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><i>If you have any suggestions, please do share.</i></u></b></div>
<br />
Chocolates / Candies<br />
<br />
<br />
Jewellery<br />
<br />
<br />
Home Interior and Appliances<br />
<br />
Wardrobes / Cupboards<br />
<br />
Bed<br />
<br />
Washing Machine<br />
<br />
Refrigerators<br />
<br />
Air conditioners<br />
<br />
Electrical Appliances (Tubelight / Fans)<br />
<br />
Kitchen Appliances (Mixer grinder / Oven / Microwave / Blender)<br />
<br />
Security Systems<br />
<br />
WiFi Routers<br />
<br />
Televisions<br />
<br />
Projectors<br />
<br />
Audio Systems<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Pharmaceuticals / Nutraceuticals / Medicines<br />
<br />
<br />
Banks / Insurance Companies / Investment Funds<br />
This is grossly subjective and while we do have a lot of Government owned companies (wholly or partially) their service and overall easy of use are often debatable. The private sector companies offer a variety of options, but at the end of the day most of them are often tie-ups with some foreign firms.<br />
<br />
Special Mention: RuPay !<br />
<br />
<br />
Going towards the virtual world. Who can forget Sabeer Bhatia and Hotmail!<br />
While most software companies have Indians at strategic positions in their organization, we have don't always realize how many of them are purely Indian!<br />
<br />
FinTech<br />
<br />
HealthCare<br />
<br />
Office Management Suites<br />
<br />
Messaging Apps<br />
<br />
Email services<br />
<br />
Hosting Services<br />
<br />
<br />
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now that we have some concrete options, repeating what was said earlier with some examples:<br />
<br />
From Khadi, Peter England to Westside, to Arrow, Louis Philippe... EVERY quality shirts are available INDIAN.<br />
Yet if you buy USPA or Zara ... what is the logic?<br />
Are these not 'enough' for your NEEDS.<br />
<br />
Of course in toys, automobiles - MANY components are Chinese because they are not YET manufactured here.<br />
The reverse is also true - Xiaomi has a charger to phone made in India ... but the company itself is Chinese.<br />
<br />
Khadi has wooden toys and there are many board games made in India.<br />
Ludo <i>ka</i> coins <i>ka</i> feel <i>ya</i> scrabble <i>ka</i> tiles <i>ka</i> feel 10% <i>kam hoga ... toh chalega na </i>... You anyway play the game barely 20 times.<br />
<br />
You also have Decathlon ... foreign brand - but 90% of the stuff is Made in India ...<br />
<br />
SO its NOT that you have to be fanatic ... and buy everything ONLY INDIAN ... but if we can all make a MINOR shift - of consciously opting for the brand that will BENEFIT INDIA (as a country, as an economy, as our people) - when QUALITY is at PAR ... it will go a long way.<br />
<br />
Just the way - we sometimes talk of Health. That if we make a small shift of opting for fruits / dry fruits/fruit sugars - instead of the junk binging for 'snacks' - it goes a long way ...<br />
Something similar.<br />
<br />
Nobody is saying ... Like Swadeshi movement ... that burn everything <i>phoren </i>... but can we not at least - TRY to see the EQUIVALENT quality and HELP some manufacturers who are genuinely trying their best ...<br />
Like you check the expiry date ... next time, before adding a product in your cart ... check the label!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-90548140248683833602020-04-30T21:12:00.000+05:302020-04-30T21:12:01.248+05:30What happens IF you do get infected with COVID 19 / Corona Virus<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>What happens IF YOU are Covid 19 positive:</u></b></div>
<br />
I sincerely hope that this post remains as an idle exercise, but if and when you are detected as Corona virus / Covid 19 / SARS Cov2 Positive ...<br />
<br />
But, planning to fail is failing to plan. Taking a look at the worst possible outcome, may either help us be better prepared for it or makes us more determined and vigilant to avoid it / prevent it!<br />
<br />
Of course, the authorities will swoop in and do their bit.<br />
Currently, based on where you live and your symptoms, it can be home quarantine to isolation to hospitalization.<br />
<br />
<br />
Few immediate steps that seem obvious are:<br />
<br />
- Your entire house will be sealed. At least for 14 days. Your parents, spouse, siblings and children too will be taken to the Isolation Ward. They TOO may turn out to be positive.<br />
From the moment you are taken away, you MAY not ever see them ever again. They may die or you may die...<br />
<br />
This scenario seems bleaker and all the more challenging if your children or parents don't live with you and it's just you and your spouse living alone.<br />
<br />
Now, we doctors can sometimes be quite a morbid lot and there are days when we don't deal in sugar pills or even sugar coat things.<br />
Somethings have to be laid out straight, direct, to the point, from the heart, just the facts.<br />
<br />
If that is NOT how you like things, please don't read ahead.<br />If you think you can handle it - well, read right ahead - no more BUFFER - so think again (last chance)<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Moderately Uncomfortable Scenario 1:</u></b><br />
Only you get admitted to COVID isolation ward.<br />
What to take with you?<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Mobile, Charger, earphones, Laptop, Books, Routine medicines, Change of clothes. Plan for 14 days. (not to play Ludo, but I don't see why if the situation permits, we shouldn't be make productive use of time - whatever little there is!)</li>
<li>Cash. + Credit Cards.</li>
<li>Mediclaim Insurance is useful - keep the number handy of such policies.</li>
<li>Before you leave secure the others who will remain at home. For their day to day to be smooth - Sign a few blank cheques as well. Share your ATM Pin with your wife.</li>
<li>Pets are also our family. If you have a furry family, arrange for their shelter with some PETA or friends, in case your other family members have to be admitted.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Severely Uncomfortable Scenario 2:</u></b><br />
You succumb to the virus and die in Isolation centre. Your family is left to fend for themselves. Your mortal remains and last rites may not get the company of your near and dear ones and you would be cremated/ buried directly. Your usual support system can't even come close to console and help your family, especially your spouse.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Make your family + spouse aware TODAY, of all the current financial conditions and transactions. Leave enough cash home for them to tide over things.</li>
<li>If your parents/children are away out of India or out of town and cannot come to help your spouse nor can your spouse go to them, for the next 6 months. MAKE THEM prepared!</li>
<li>Passwords:- Share All your passwords, Keypad lock pattern or code everything in a note for them in case you die. Your phone would perhaps be the most important tool!</li>
</ol>
<br />
<br />
Making them mentally prepared is easier TODAY. Their survival depends on their mental strength<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Extremely Uncomfortable Scenario 3</b>:</u><br />
You and your spouse (who got infected along with you) - both die!<br />
Say for 3 months nobody is allowed to visit your house. After that, your parents/children are able to return.<br />
How will they enter? How will they manage? What all will they search?<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li> Finances- Again keep some signed blank cheques for them.</li>
<li>They can at least transfer the money to their A/C if they return before 3 months.</li>
<li><u>Nomination</u> is the best practice but if not done then may not have time to do it now. A lot of banks allow this online - even if you can't visit the branch.</li>
<li>Documents- Make a list of Imp Documents, Bank accounts, Bank Locker and their key location Location of various keys- Cupboard keys, Car keys, in your home ( people have a tendency to keep them in reasonably tough to find secret places). Convey this list to them TODAY - as a confidential email. (Not some WhatsApp message)</li>
<li>House keys should be given to some friend for keeps sake.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<br />
Some of these are standard practices, when we usually step out for a long vacation or trip.<br />
Think of this as a similar scenario, just a little more extreme.<br />
Hence, please prepare accordingly!<br />
<br />
Of course, we will always hope for the best.<br />
Of course, health wise and medical treatment wise, you will get the best the doctors can offer.<br />
But, we can't leave everything to chance or fate, can we?<br />
<br />
<i>"Aap bolte rahe 'jo likha hai hoga'... aur wahaan aisa likha ho 'jaisa tu chahe waisa hoga' ..."</i><br />
<br />
<br />
These are just a few suggestions from my end, please feel free to share some more in the comments section below or convey them to me via my email id.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. Stay Home!</u></b></div>
</div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-78953144300235471952020-04-26T21:11:00.003+05:302020-04-26T21:11:39.020+05:30Request to Factory Owners / Business Owners re-opening after COVID 19 / Corona<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A small personal request from my side to all the factory owners and office owners of this group.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow onwards, over the next 15 days, at some point you will be resuming operations in a more substantial number, than it is for now.<br />
<br />
I request you to please adhere to guidelines seriously even though I know some people are over pricing thermal scanners in such times.<br />
<br />
Small increase in costs of sanitation, hygiene, disinfectants will surely pay long term dividends.<br />
<br />
These are minor changes, which will bear fruit even when continued beyond current measures.<br />
(Same goes for distancing and adopting namaste as a standard form of greeting)<br />
<br />
Most importantly, there is a lot of misinformation and ignorance still present in the certain communities and members of few socioeconomic strata.<br />
<br />
I would request you to use your position to spread the right information and educate your workforce correctly.<br />
<br />
Plenty of infographics and tutorials available on the Government Telegram channel can be used effectively.<br />
<br />
From wearing masks in an ineffective manner to slipping up in hygiene proto, we have observed workers mess up these things regularly.<br />
<br />
Please help ease the stigma, reduce the fear... By dissemination of correct information in a supportive manner.<br />
<br />
I am myself contemplating the idea of creating tutorials or edutainment videos of the same, but I find there is no dearth of such content already and it may be misinterpreted as a means to make money in such times and I have no desire to be associated with such thoughts.<br />
<br />
That being said, if there are specific circumstances where I can provide valuable inputs please don't hesitate to ask for it. I assure you I shall do my best<br />
<br />
- Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwani<br />
namaste@drsurajdhirwani.com<br />
20th April 2020</div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-52119149398161789942020-04-10T16:41:00.000+05:302020-04-11T16:28:17.805+05:30Mumbaikars ... what have we learnt?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>*Update* </b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Thank you, everyone, for the overwhelming response and suggestions that were shared!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I have added and updated a select few accordingly!</i></div>
<br />
<br />
Dear fellow Mumbaikars,<br />
<br />
I ask you because we are the ONE city in all of INDIA with the maximum COVID 19 positive cases.<br />
<br />
The lockdown started on 25th March 2020,<br />
we have spent more than 2 weeks / 14 days in this situation so far.<br />
<br />
So, what have we learnt ... so far ...<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Mumbai can have a blue sky after all!</li>
<li>There are dolphins (& whales?) in our sea</li>
<li>Juhu beach can look like Miami when the people don't mess it up.</li>
<li>That we are handicapped without our domestic help</li>
<li>Everyone and anyone in Mumbai will find a way to help another when the need arises</li>
<li>Barbers, Electricians, Plumbers, Mechanics and the Laundry guy should also come under 'essential services'</li>
<li>Our police force is one of the best and no amount of salutes and respect and gratitude can suffice for their devotion to duty</li>
<li>We take our doctors and paramedical staff for granted, waaaay too much.</li>
<li>We are all very callous about our health. Universally.</li>
<li>We are excellent liars and amazing at ducking the law</li>
<li>Yet we can all be organized and co-ordinated, but only when we want - that is when there's a stick on our backside</li>
<li>We can play gully cricket anywhere, even when we are not supposed to</li>
<li>We may not realise it - but 'others' around us also have a 'home' that they have to look after and families to feed that we often ignore</li>
<li>We finally learnt to count the number of grocery stores in our area, that we had perhaps forgotten owing to e-commerce</li>
<li>Work From Home dream came true, which can be a boon for some and bane for some</li>
<li>A 'Home' is a piece of complex machinery that needs a lot of clockwork and is not the department on one person only</li>
<li>You have to bathe! Everyday!</li>
<li>There is no traffic in Mumbai - WE are the traffic</li>
<li>Company policies and BCP and HR decisions ... have more flexibility than some people who do yoga</li>
<li>We learnt of our vices and how tough some of them can be</li>
<li>Got a real-time calculation of how much we spend on eating outside</li>
<li>Truly appreciated the value of the cutting <i>chai</i> at the workplace</li>
<li>There are TOO many people in Mumbai - at any given point of time</li>
<li>Technology is a tool we still haven't learned the value of</li>
<li>But realise the full value of having a joint family</li>
<li>Also, the value of a good internet connection at home</li>
<li>(Added) We can do the silliest of things, find a longer less efficient method to simple tasks and proudly call it '<i>jugaad</i>' - especially when we do it intentionally to not follow the law or we were lazy enough to do the right thing in the first place.</li>
<li>(Added) Making memes is an actual job!</li>
<li>(Added) Working via video calls means you can repeat the same shirt every alternate day and still look fresh</li>
</ol>
<div>
or</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Have we learnt nothing ... because ... <i>Yeh to Mumbai hai </i>...</div>
<div>
<i>Idhar bomb blast ho ki corona ... apun to aisaich rahega bhidu ...</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Is there anything else you would like to add to the list?<br />
Comment below!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-4330609376788347842020-04-07T16:11:00.000+05:302020-04-16T16:13:27.556+05:30For my young Homeopathy colleagues... During COVID19<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Dear young Homoeopaths,</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">I have been receiving many queries about what can be our contribution as Homoeopaths towards the current Corona pandemic / COVID 19 situation.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-ecb45449-7fff-64dd-5fb9-595b3e22008c" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">I completely appreciate the intent and enthusiasm of the current young generation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">This is to offer some clarity to the thought process.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><i>Sirf Jazba kaafi nahi.</i></span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">For those who feel we should use Homoeopathy as a prophylactic,</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">In my opinion, we do not have enough evidence to go and suggest to the Government to use any of our remedies on a wide scale.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">We can not put the life of 1.3 crore people at risk by advocating something we have NO evidence of.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">It would be a counter product. We would end up instilling a false sense of security and in such scenarios, people might be less careful about their quarantine and be callous about isolation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Which of course is counterproductive.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">#2 For those who feel we should be involved in the treatment.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Yes, that is a great idea. But we must take concrete steps before we suggest that to the government.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">How many of us are absolutely aware of what are the symptoms of what a COVID 19 patient faces.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Of the 70 odd deaths, how many went to the ventilator stage? Very few. Just 10 or 11.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Average age of patients is 67</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Most died because of co-morbidities. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">2.5 to 3% deaths are because of co-morbidities.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Recovery rate is 10%. If we can help increase that, make it faster, more efficient, without relapses - then we would be useful.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">For that we need a protocol. Get all the symptoms. Try and repertorize. See the top remedies. Understand their sphere of action. Their pathophysiological action.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Study the patients and their symptoms from what you gather on government websites.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">And present it to one of your seniors or teachers. </span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Third:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">We all want to play our part as doctors. We want to rise up to the occasion.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Yes, but please understand that as of now there are enough doctors in the situation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">While we patiently wait for our turn, at the same time hoping the situation doesn’t become that bad that so MANY doctors are needed - till then what can you do?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><i>Aise time pe kuch log paise kama sakte hai, kuch log izzat.</i></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">We are doctors, reputation is everything.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Young Homoeopaths this is the time!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Around you, in your family, in your WhatsApp groups, in your building society… be the light, be the source of </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><b>right</b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"> information, be the voice of logic and reason, be the scientific person.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Join the telegram group where the government shares the correct information and many infographics.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Spread those. Verified. And accurate.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">When someone panics and wants to buy HCQS, advise them what is right.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">When someone is concerned about symptoms do teleconsultation.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">But before you do that, learn how to screen the patients through verified sources.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">That is how you become the source of right knowledge - the ‘Doctor’ - someone whose word will be trusted.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">When all doctors speak the same words, the same voice - that is when we will rise and help the system.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Please do not forward your views or unverified news or fake news.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Be there to calm people. To advise the right things. Not jump to conclusions and help them around in the right way.</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Till then prepare for the day we may be needed.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Learn about how to wear the masks, how to wear PPE. What are the levels of protection? What are the symptoms?</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Please be careful of your actions. It should not be harmful or detrimental to the science!</span></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">I will leave you with 2 things:</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Primum Non-Nocere - First Do No Harm</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;">Aude Sapere - Dare to be wise!</span></div>
<br /></div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-30134515841037263642020-03-21T19:39:00.001+05:302020-03-21T19:40:21.793+05:30In times of Corona - Work from Home ... is it working?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In the year 2011, there was a Hollywood movie - Contagion. In what seems to be a situation of 'Truth stranger than Fiction' - India (as of 21st March 2020) seems to be in somewhere halfway through the movie.<br />
<br />
But, it isn't a happy ending ... <i>Yet.</i><br />
<br />
Due to the COVID-19 / Corona Outbreak / Pandemic, the people have got a better view of how things work.<br />
We, as individuals, now recognize what are<i> 'Essential Services'.</i> What industries and what sectors are always on their toes, never resting, never on break.<br />
The challenges that employers face viz-a-viz the challenges faced by the owners of manufacturing units.<br />
<br />
If anything, I am thankful the farmers haven't stopped doing what they do and I am indebted to them they aren't panicking like headless birds! <i>(like most of us)</i><br />
<br />
Few things that have been seen as a 'problem'. The indomitable, unextinguishable spirit of Mumbai has refused to back down to this monster of a problem and continues to roam out on the streets! absolutely counterproductive and irresponsible.<br />
<br />
We have also witnessed, first hand, why we lot (yes, US INDIANS) can not be trusted to do the right thing. Escaping quarantine, fleeing away to remote locations, meeting large gatherings of peoples - doing everything we can to<br />
- defy the clear instructions of authorities<br />
- endanger a million other lives<br />
- basically, enforcing the delusion that each individual is his/her own boss.<br />
<br />
Doesn't work! We aren't individual microorganisms. We are part of very complex machinery called INDIA. We make it what it is and what we have done so far, is betray our own countrymen.<br />
<br />
<i>I strongly hope there is some PENAL action for those who have fled from quarantine or knowingly spread the infection further.</i><br />
<br />
But then, at the opposite spectrum, there are MANY of us who have stayed back home.<br />
(Just enough I hope! Though at the time of writing this, the numbers don't seem favourable).<br />
This post is for them. For those who are at home ... who ARE WORKING FROM HOME!<br />
<br />
As you set up your workspace, your desktop, your office cubicle in one corner of your house ... take the opportunity to indulge in these few thoughts:<br />
<br />
- Take a look around, this is one of the RARE opportunities where all members of the house get a glimpse into the other's life on a daily basis!<br />
<br />
<b>If you are a homemaker</b> who thinks that the spouse has a gala time cracking jokes in an airconditioned office - then here's the chance to see how persistent calls keep pouring in from colleagues to pressurized calls from bosses. Hear the clickety-clack of the keyboards. That's how the bread (or roti) comes home.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are the spouse that is primarily at the office</b>, thinking what a wonderful life the other partner has at home - who would probably be just whiling away time on WhatsApp groups and gossip parties, then here's your chance to see what actually makes a home tick! From boiling the milk, refilling water, chopping vegetables, keeping things orderly and clean there is LOT that goes into keeping the house a home and making sure everything is within our arm's reach when one returns home in the evening.<br />
<br />
I<b>f you are a family where both spouses work to make ends meet </b>- this is a wonderful opportunity too!<br />
If you are <b>DINKY</b> - then this is the best time to reconnect with each other. Spend a few moments catching up. Rekindling the flame. Having meaningful conversations! Be it an arranged marriage or a love story that's rewarding - nothing beats the company of your special someone.<br />
Always keep talking about catching up for 'lunch' if your workplace is close by - well NOW lunch CAN be together! Sync your breaks. Try to schedule your meetings.<br />
<br />
<b>If you are blessed with offsprings </b>- then this is the time you see how much they need you throughout the day. Sure, schools and classes are sending 'homework' on email and WhatsApp and everyone's doing everything they can to keep the children busy. The screen isn't the only answer.<br />
Perfect time to remove that old family album of photos or even re-watch your wedding videos with your kids.<br />
You will be surprised to know the questions they ask! That itself can lead to some very engaging, meaningful life-changing conversation.<br />
<br />
Amidst all this, somewhere, be aware to your inner self. That voice, which is often drowned in the chaos of traffic, or the crowds of commute. Sometimes, you may hear that which you want the most.<br />
During such times, be aware of :<br />
<br />
- <b>What you are MOST THANKFUL about</b><br />
and<br />
- <b>What you are MOST UNHAPPY about</b><br />
<br />
Thankful, that you have a good job? That you have a good laptop? That your boss is very understanding? That your company is very HR friendly? That your spouse is so understanding? That your kids are so cute, so smart? That your home is so close to the market? That your society is so proactive? That your location is safe?<br />
<br />
Then MAKE SURE you express this gratitude, TODAY. NOW. Not tomorrow. Not after this is all over.<br />
AFTER, make sure you contribute more to that which you are thankful for.<br />
<br />
Whatever you are most UNHAPPY about right now - is what IRRITATES or UPSETS you the most on a daily basis!<br />
Was it the commute? Was it the corner cubicle? Was it the AC temperature in the office? Was it some smelly colleague or chatty coworker? Was it the dread of the swiping the ID card in time? Is it the size of the house? Is it the vicinity of some specific places? Is it the leaking bathroom fixtures? Is it a lack of communication with your loved ones?<br />
<br />
Whatever it is - RESOLVE TO FIX IT or CHANGE IT.<br />
Life is short. Life is unpredictable. We are literally LIVING proof of it.<br />
So is it really worth it being unhappy every single day of your beautiful unpredictable life about something that you CAN CHANGE?<br />
Change the commute, change the job, change the space, change the pace!<br />
<br />
Above all - CHANGE what you can about yourself first ... and the WORLD will change with you!<br />
<br />
"<br />
God grant me the courage to change the things I can,<br />
Serenity to accept the things I can not,<br />
Wisdom to know the difference.<br />
"<br />
<br />
If there are some things you can't change, take this opportunity to make peace with it!<br />
<br />
Home loan means you can't change your current job - then make peace with it and be happy that you are able to materialize your dream home, step by step.<br />
<br />
Geriatric parents mean you can't change your location - then make peace with it and be happy that you are the reason they smile and that you have the opportunity to give back to those who gave their everything for you.<br />
<br />
Noisy kids mean you can't work peacefully - then make peace with it and be thankful you have kids and take the opportunity to teach them better, to engage with them and converse with them.<br />
<br />
<br />
Change does not happen overnight - unless of course, it's the number of COVID 10 positive cases or the Stock Market INDICES.<br />
So keep at it! You have a long time!<br />
&<br />
Gratitude is not expressed in one Thank You. It's expressed by being the best you can for every moment that you are blessed to be breathing!<br />
<br />
Whatever be the situation - you can find something to be thankful about.<br />
If you can't ... Reach out ... I am sure you have friends who will remind you of things.<br />
If not - maybe the friends are real blessings!<br />
<br />
You are NOT ALONE.<br />
<br />
If there's still no one around ... Reply to this post! And I shall do what I can. :)<br />
(<a href="https://twitter.com/dr_suraj" target="_blank">Twitter</a>)<br />
<br />
Stay Safe. Stay Healthy!<br />
Stay at HOME!<br />
<br />
P.S. This virus does NOT spread over the phone. So, call up those whom you perhaps only send an informal message on special occasions. Talk. Converse. But PLEASE DON'T SPREAD UNVERIFIED INFORMATION.<br />
<br /></div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com2Mumbai, Maharashtra, India19.0759837 72.877655918.5957917 72.232208899999989 19.556175699999997 73.5231029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-78603211289877847302019-12-31T10:19:00.001+05:302019-12-31T10:26:37.017+05:30Titan... you slipped off my wrist!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<br />
Titan, the story ... and their watches are well known to most of us on the other side of 30.<br />
We have all seen <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2010/08/titan-indian-watch-brand.html" target="_blank">their rise</a>, we have all proudly owned one or have gifted one or have received one as a gift at some point of time in our life.<br />
<br />
But this is not the story of one such watch. This is the story of many such watches and how they kept slipping OFF!<br />
<br />
Titan, admittedly you weren't my first.<br />
My first was this Timex - IRONMAN - back when most people hadn't heard of Marvel or Robert Downey Jr.<br />
This IS one of my most cherished ones and is <i>still</i> functional. Albeit quite beaten up.<br />
<i>(if anybody has any leads on acquiring an original case of this Timex, please drop in your source in the comments).</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqU67QeFkHe0VzsKFVMEEtEF4j9vaPNWJYhT_PvRN2t-K54LWa8WBoptaE1OqGehF4v4OsEUJGMbZPc5kfgCr-OqegR2wK_pKl0jILiAb_OfLbc89tPwi3QUTwATjHwVkc2j23uj3EpW1x/s1600/20191231_101321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqU67QeFkHe0VzsKFVMEEtEF4j9vaPNWJYhT_PvRN2t-K54LWa8WBoptaE1OqGehF4v4OsEUJGMbZPc5kfgCr-OqegR2wK_pKl0jILiAb_OfLbc89tPwi3QUTwATjHwVkc2j23uj3EpW1x/s320/20191231_101321.jpg" width="155" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOM0i5XjyQk66-uyHkhg8FKfNtF2yB9Mq5htAKCA5u56IbpyKEchzvS5U1S-pcFHTBrawPm8Frx-VnxHc-Pf7gMVY4CLPAI5Y7HKus0ieAmQeno6zWJkn8Te-IeUHNxd_lrT9fPGddQ2Gw/s1600/IMG-20150118-WA0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="719" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOM0i5XjyQk66-uyHkhg8FKfNtF2yB9Mq5htAKCA5u56IbpyKEchzvS5U1S-pcFHTBrawPm8Frx-VnxHc-Pf7gMVY4CLPAI5Y7HKus0ieAmQeno6zWJkn8Te-IeUHNxd_lrT9fPGddQ2Gw/s320/IMG-20150118-WA0013.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My first Titan was not actually a watch ... it was a CLOCK!<br />
From what I understand these were a limited number of pieces.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
My first Titan did have an interesting story. I fancied the 'design' of a watch I saw on a poster in a movie theatre. I was barely 18 then. The watch was by a lesser known brand (back then) called Cizer.<br />
I showed the poster to my Dad and told him, I am ready to move up from a digital watch to this beautiful analogue piece.<br />
He looked at me and said - 'Design is nice, but if you must buy a watch - buy Titan.'<br />
And the very next day he took me to the World of Titan - a new world indeed - and I couldn't believe it - they DID have the exact design in a better finish, cleaner look and at a very reasonable price.<br />
<br />
It was love at first sight ...<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxcBADZqKGpav37dvykCBYTsBG_qcUmzqDHLAnmi5mpoRLkD0APw_IRYu0OyaF03hhCA1BrWvU5OIuHGRlFT6Dbfv9FC6gbACtkkGvVIzwMrCoe-qfO9dGOvZUSV7Au6fX0M-QoB71VHq/s1600/20191231_101425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="778" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilxcBADZqKGpav37dvykCBYTsBG_qcUmzqDHLAnmi5mpoRLkD0APw_IRYu0OyaF03hhCA1BrWvU5OIuHGRlFT6Dbfv9FC6gbACtkkGvVIzwMrCoe-qfO9dGOvZUSV7Au6fX0M-QoB71VHq/s320/20191231_101425.jpg" width="155" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is still one of my favourites.<br />
<br />
Since then for almost 2 decades my wrist has been adorned ONLY by a Titan.<br />
Tycoon, <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2011/07/update-titan-indian-watch-brand.html" target="_blank">Obaku</a>, Octane, HTSE, Edge many many variants... many different models.<br />
Each brought with it a unique joy, many memories and a solid reliability.<br />
<br />
Given my affinity to new 'tech' - it was but natural that I started exploring the world of wearables right from the original Xiaomi Mi Band and I even owned the long-forgotten Micromax Yu band back then! (A blog post from way back, <a href="https://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2015/08/xiaomi-mi-band-vs-micromax-yu-fit-band.html" target="_blank">comparing the two</a> ,way back in 2011 I might add, which amassed more than a 1000 hits back then!)<br />
<br />
But, but - these would ALWAYS be on the other wrist. None of them could take the place of my Titan.<br />
As much as I enjoyed the 'connectivity' and notifications - I am on my 6th such band now - I could never bring myself to wear a device which - is my primary source of TIME - needs to be 'charged'.<br />
<br />
I just simply abhor the feeling of lifting my wrist and<br />
- pressing a button to see the time<br />
- worse, finding a blank black screen since the device is out of juice.<br />
<br />
Say what you will, most 'smartwatches' today are worn with the 'power saving' mode on, which means you have to interact with it in some fixed way (press a button, double-tap, lift to wake etc.) to just be able to see the TIME !<br />
Unacceptable!<br />
I need that at a <i>glance</i>.<br />
<br />
But, the penetration and utility of these wearables are unparalleled. And their penetration has been rapid, t<a href="https://www.gsmarena.com/global_wearable_band_market_grew_65_in_q3_xiaomi_dominates_worldwide_-news-40571.php" target="_blank">o say the least</a>.<br />
<br />
From kids, to Swiggy / Uber delivery guys to even some senior citizens, the likes of Xiaomi Mi Band and Huawei Honor Band have become the default 'timepiece' / wrist jewellery - which DOES tell them the time and some more!<br />
<br />
I have to be honest, I have been wanting a good smart watch since more than 2 years now.<br />
But given my conundrum I find myself vying for a good Analogue-Digital mix/fusion solution.<br />
One of my favourites in this variant is the <a href="https://www.withings.com/in/en/steel-hr" target="_blank">Withings Steel HR</a> (better known as the Nokia Steel HR in some markets). <i>Yes, you read that right - Nokia. They bought over Withings and then sold it too.</i><br />
<br />
What a beautiful timepiece. Smart yet suave. Modern yet rooted in retro.<br />
Even if you run out of 'juice', it will still tell the time!<br />
<br />
Sadly, the status of the company meant I never could bring myself to buy one of these. Also, their availability in India was highly dubious.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile this <a href="https://www.techradar.com/in/news/new-sony-watch-straps-bring-smart-features-to-your-traditional-watch" target="_blank">INNOVATION</a> from Sony caught my eye too! Typically, 'Don't fix what ain't broke formula' !<br />
Sadly, this one didn't catch on too.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, thanks to some genuinely good folks at Titan - who do take customer feedback seriously and always strive to keep making the brand better - Titan DID come out with a smart watch!<br />
The 'JUXT'.<br />
With Vir Das, Kabir Khan and Pritam as brand ambassadors no less!<br />
I was at the launch, in the ballroom at the Taj Palace. I heard the guys from HP talk loftily about this WebOS based abomination which seemed like a 'me too' game rather than innovation or a solid foot through the door attempt.<br />
Which is what it was - not just for Titan, but for many big names who tried to ride on the same solution from HP - and they ALL failed.<br />
<br />
But Titan, being Titan - didn't give up. They gave it another shot with the 'Juxt Pro'.<br />
Titan, being a Tata venture, should know - the Indian market doesn't forgive brands (& brand names) who fail.<br />
<br />
It's been 2 years since then - and Titan STILL does NOT have a HEART RATE sensor in ANY of their wearables!<br />
<br />
Their extra CHUNKY Reflex transformed into the sleek, unique (& expensive) WAV but - yet - no HR!<br />
<br />
Why, Titan, why?!<br />
<br />
Remember, earlier, how I mentioned most of us over 30 would be familiar with Titan?<br />
Those younger are more familiar with Fastrack and not as much with Titan.<br />
Given the advent of these bands, most young ones have gone all 'digital' and as is often seen, they just do NOT know how to read a CLOCK!<br />
Unbelievable, but it is true.<br />
Hence, as a combination of these factors and to try and NOT gift a 'Chinese' gift - we make it a point to try and gift a 'Zoop' to children. Thus, their FIRST Titan and a reliable one at that, plus it comes with all possible brand endorsements - from Avengers to Doraemon to Disney! No rip-offs, the R-E-A-L Deal!<br />
<br />
So every time I go to buy a Zoop, I take a deep breath and walk past the 'Fossil and FitBit' smartwatches - with a silent prayer, that Titan will come up with something soon ... soon ...<br />
<br />
But, alas, what came through was the BEAUTIFUL, yet incomplete - Connected series in Titan as well as Sonata.<br />
Lovely ANALOGUE smartwatches. They connect to your phone via Bluetooth and manage to do a lot of things, WITHOUT a screen!<br />
Excellent work Titan!<br />
Just as I was about to buy one of these, I noticed it has a pedometer and calorie counter but NO Heart Rate sensor!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2QDIJXT5ssVGVeim-cJZIT7i9VrlXZhrM3akJiRY_Y3ig5oQsRlsP2XLi9HxALpiN8_paLfHHgeJHBUIThW7MbCfcIQqoeaN9u0Npec0jWuezQyFQCc0TWP1M70A-uwSFC1Tv-QVc7i1J/s1600/20191122_140454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2QDIJXT5ssVGVeim-cJZIT7i9VrlXZhrM3akJiRY_Y3ig5oQsRlsP2XLi9HxALpiN8_paLfHHgeJHBUIThW7MbCfcIQqoeaN9u0Npec0jWuezQyFQCc0TWP1M70A-uwSFC1Tv-QVc7i1J/s320/20191122_140454.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It just felt so odd, so wrong that after more than 2 years Titan hasn't managed a SINGLE wearable in it's arsenal with a heart rate sensor.<br />
Apple, Samsung, Huawei are monitoring ECGs and saving lives with their 'watches' - but the real Indian watch company has not made any movement in that direction.<br />
Be it 'Watch Faces' (something which is their forte) in other smart wearables or better 'gadgets' that are worn around a wrist - Titan has not upgraded their armoury to join the race.<br />
<br />
Finally, while heavily debating between a AmazFit Bip, Samsung Gear, Samsung Watch Active and a Fossil ... I ended up stumbling upon an old flame. A long time desire to own one ... the Casio ProTrek.<br />
It used to be called the PathFinder a few years ago. This is the lesser known, more functional, more utilitarian brother of the G-Shock series.<br />
<br />
I found one which was Analogue + Digital. It had glow in the dark straps for crying out loud! It had enough features to satiate the kid in me, while being absolutely functional about it's job. It was the 'smartest' non-processor and OS based WATCH I could think of.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
Thus, after 18 years +, for the first time I started wearing a brand other than TITAN on a regular basis...<br />
<br />
Titan... you didn't keep up with the times. You played it too slow ... and you slipped off my wrist.<br />
Along with the wrists of MANY others as I mentioned above.<br />
And for all of those people, they will have very few reasons to go BACK to analogue watches<br />
(few, not zero, but few).<br />
And Titan will have to give them many more reasons to try and trust DIGITAL offerings from their stable!<br />
<br />
A steep climb indeed.<br />
<br />
But, there are 3 un-tapped markets that Titan can still foray into and carve some space for themselves:<br />
<br />
1. Kids GPS tracking watches.<br />
In case you haven't heard or seen one - parents are spending more than 3,000 Rs on these watches which carry a SIM card, have a touch screen - often a camera which helps the kids communicate with their parents as well as aids the parents keep track of their kids - geo-fencing along with GPS.<br />
Sadly, ALL of these devices come from China with a Chinese app that parents are forced to log in into and use. Well known brand Xiaomi has also <a href="https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_introduces_mi_rabbit_childrens_watch_2s_in_china_-news-40279.php" target="_blank">recently forayed into this space.</a><br />
<br />
Titan can offer a good robust alternative to the same where at least we, Indian parents, are assured of our kid's data and privacy being in the hands of a trustworthy Indian company!<br />
Also, the service and repairs of these watches from China are... well ... ZERO! Within a year these expensive devices are rendered useless owing to their rapidly depleting batteries with no option of replacing those.<br />
<br />
2. Heart Rate sensor and other Photometric sensors.<br />
Healthcare and wearables are inseparable. More now, than ever. With a population like that of India, an existing brand like Titan with its vast network and service points will be the best player to launch and kind of Wearable Healthcare Tech.<br />
<br />
3. Tata Motors - wearable keys that are given with the Tata Nexon XZA+ are uber cool! First introduced with the Jaguar F Pace SUV, the Nexon comes with these bands that when worn on your wrist serve as the 'Key'! You can just open your car with a tap on the door handle/request sensor.<br />
Snazzy! Sadly, the band does nothing else. Zilch.<br />
A wearable band (fitness + notifications) like the Reflex Wav with such a component embedded would make for a very competent gadget. One that would ALWAYS find it's way on the owner's wrist and would seldom be left wanting attention in a case or drawer somewhere.<br />
Even if one were to just consider the Nexon, Harrier and upcoming Altroz and Gravitas premium vehicles from Tata Motors, Titan would easily dispatch 4000 such bands per month!<br />
Massive increase in visibility, brand value, penetration and data accumulation.<br />
Also, this is a market Apple & Samsung won't make it too anytime soon.<br />
<br />
I sincerely hope, Titan makes a frog leap and gets ahead of the curve for me to once again take a leap of faith and thus, a Titan can find it's way back on my wrist ... for now ... it's a new world full of different brands waiting to be explored!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com0Mumbai, Maharashtra, India19.0759837 72.87765590000003618.5957917 72.232208900000032 19.556175699999997 73.52310290000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-35546962179953550682019-12-17T10:52:00.001+05:302019-12-19T18:10:56.100+05:30DO NOT given in to Hate! CAA / CAB & NRC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The repeated news of the unrest in India with respect to the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) made me feel uneasy and quite concerned.<br />
Sharing a NON-POLITICAL view of the same as a concerned, patriotic citizen of India - principles of Homoeopathy may benefit our diverse nation since INDIVIDUALITY is a corner-stone of Homoeopathy and in a diverse nation like ours, there definitely can not be a one-size-fits-all formula.<br />
<br />
<br />
Is India really at unrest? Is there rampant rioting?<br />
Is all of India burning? Are all INDIANS rioting and arsoning?<br />
Are INDIANS angry / upset / not happy / in disagreement?<br />
Or are we MADE to hear more of it.<br />
<br />
Somehow we don't hear as much about the:<br />
6 months of Non-stop protests in Hong Kong.<br />
10 times more severe protests in Chile, Venezuela ... but we don't get to hear much of that.<br />
Religious persecution in Yemen, Libya...<br />
Uighurs in China, Rohingyas in Bangladesh.<br />
<br />
<i>My only REQUEST to ALL my dear Indian brothers and sisters is:</i><br />
Before we condemn,<br />
Before we pick sides,<br />
Before we get drowned in a deluge of WhatsApp forwards, Twitter screenshots, microscopically highlighted statements, misquoted fake news and plethora of old irrelevant images on various social media sites (Facebook and Twitter)...<br />
<br />
INDIANS ... PLEASE.<br />
<br />
DO NOT give in to Hate.<br />
This is India. We love our brothers irrespective of what religion they practice.<br />
<br />
<br />
But if they hold a Indian passport and try to work against India, then they are not our brothers.<br />
& if they do not hold an Indian passport and yet try to ruin India ... then they are definitely not Indians!<br />
Simple.<br />
<br />
<br />
as per my understanding (and I am always open to learning new things, so if anyone has a better understanding of the ACTUAL law please share in comments)<br />
<br />
1. CAB says - ONLY those coming in from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan ... India will allow Hindu, Buddhist, Christian (who ARE Minority in those countries) to seek refuge in India. and NOT Muslims because followers of Islam are in majority in the Islamic countries so they don't face the danger of religious persecution in the same intensity as those of non-Islamic faith.<br />
(this is not against the constitutions of India - because the 'discrimination' is NOT against an ALREADY citizen of India - it's just a condition on WHO can become citizen)<br />
<br />
2. NRC says - NO MATTER WHAT your religion is ... you are INDIAN if you can prove it. There is no discrimination there.<br />
A Marwari, Sindhi, Kutchi (from Sind of erstwhile India, now Pakistan) or a Tamilian, Christian from Sri Lanka who has not been paying tax or has illegally migrated from some other country may ALSO find himself stuck in the wrong side of this register!<br />
<br />
In watered-down terms, I think it's a very polished way to say - that those who have been living in India, but not contributing to its growth or have not got their papers sorted - are not conducive to the future growth of the country and the current government probably wants to weed them out ....<br />
(unfortunately, it seems that statistically, the majority of the people who fall under this category are of Islamic faith)<br />
A large number of that statistic can also be immigrants (legal?) from neighbouring countries.<br />
<br />
It does not need a mind of scientific temper to understand that<br />
if the country is surrounded on 3 sides with countries where a certain community is a majority,<br />
then obviously the majority of the migrants will be from the same community<br />
and obviously, most of the people facing trouble will be from that community.<br />
<br />That does not make them the ONLY ones facing trouble. That does not single them out.<br />
<br />
<br />
I also feel, this is a way of admitting - that AADHAAR failed at this task. Of establishing CITIZENSHIP. Or trying to weed out illegal immigrants - a problem that bothers many other countries USA, France even Germany ! Not just India, alone.<br />
<br />
<b>CAB</b><br />
- omits followers of Islam because it deals with those facing religious persecution in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh - all 3 countries which are Islamic countries.<br />
So the people facing the religious persecution, would (ideally) not be followers of Islam - but followers of ALL other religions. Hindu, Sikh, Christians, Buddhists ... and ALL have been included,<br />
So it is not discrimination or against constitution since these are NOT citizens of India.<br />
<br />
Besides, it has been the mandate of almost all leaders and office bearers of India, that for all those Indians who found themselves on the wrong side of the border during the unexpected, sudden and quite gruesome turn of events in 1947 - that India will always want to help them, resolve their issues, if need be welcome them back and rehabilitate them.<br />
<br /><br />
<b>NRC</b><br />
- is FOR the existing citizens of India. It has NO discrimination on any caste or creed. It is applicable to ALL existing citizens of India.<br />
No matter where you migrated from.<br />
<br />
Now, the question does beg to be asked - if you have migrated to India - or your forefathers did - at any point of time ... in all these years - there is NO paper that links you to have had a concrete transaction with the Government of India?<br />
No tax, property, income, investment, reimbursement, refund ... that confirms your participation/contribution in the governance, growth, development of the country that you are living in and earning your daily bread from?<br />
<br />
<br />
I do agree though, that the combined timing of these 2 has led to a mis-communication and lack of clarity.<br />
Somehow it seems just like what we all heard (Saw reported) during DeMin and GST.<br />
Concepts that made sense on paper, were essentially welcome by majority and people seemed positive about it - but the implementation and execution was not as per everyone's expectation.<br />
& then there were multiple versions available in Print & other media...<br />
Which DOES often make you question the authenticity of ANYTHING that we are being shown / told these days.<br />
<br />
As a Doctor one of the first things we learn is to never ever discriminate of the basis of caste, creed, religion. My fees don't change based on the first name of the patient or his/her clothing.<br />
<br />
Which is why when I try to understand this, I can't help but explain it in a doctor's perspective -<br />
<br />
<br />
It is akin to a Doctor using a very strong broad-spectrum anti-biotic to try and kill the bacteria of an infection he is not sure of!<br />
Since the doctor is unable to isolate the infectious organism under a culture media, the doctor has resorted to amoxicillin or ciprofloxacin or linezolid ... the KNOWN side-effect of which is the destruction of the intestinal flora - which is useful for digestion !<br />
<br />
Thus, comes the anti-biotic related acidity in the body - just as the country is burning in parts right now.<br />
<br />
<i>Unfortunately, I don't see any antacid in sight! Neither a good probiotic to replace the lost flora!</i><br />
Quite frankly, I am not proposing one either. I am NOT a specialist in political science or IAS or civil governance or economics. Suggesting a solution, like an armchair activist - reminds me of the quote 'Do unto others as they do to you'.<br />
<br />
Do I like being told by my patient, that I should prescribe remedy A instead of B. Or that he read a WhatsApp forward which told him 'X' ingredient works better in the disease he thinks he has contracted?<br />
No!<br />
<br />
But, we live in a free country! The beauty of freedom of speech is that I CAN write this blog. I can express my views and the advantage is others can too - and I may get to learn a new perspective from the same.<br />
<br />
So here's my thoughts:<br />
Circling back to the metaphor above - is why - Homoeopathy should be used - where the body is better equipped to fight the infection on its own by altering the dynamic state.<br />
Meaning, the INDIANS need to be altering their DYNAMIC state. Their moral compass. Their duty and obligations to the country they live in and the brethren they share it with!<br />
Weed out those from within.<br />
Empower people to be more responsible, pro-active and above all make them feel pride in who they are, where they are.<br />
ALL of them - equally!<br />
By UNITING, not dividing.<br />
<br />
But of course, this is easier said than done. Homoeopathy is not easy to practice and needs a lot of patience ... all of which is in SHORT supply these days ....<br />
<br />
<br />
Dear fellow INDIANS, brothers and sisters - Please DO NOT GIVE IN TO HATE.<br />
Remember we have ALL been friends, we have all shared tables, had meals, played, raced, won together MANY competitions as a TEAM in our school, our college, our workplace - IRRESPECTIVE of their faith and religion they practice.<br />
<br />
Our friends have never been determined by what they wear on their head, around their neck or on their finger.<br />
They are determined by what's in their HEART !<br />
<br />
Let's not fill that heart with hate!</div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com6Mumbai, Maharashtra, India19.0759837 72.87765590000003618.5957917 72.232208900000032 19.556175699999997 73.52310290000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-44928123510308937862019-10-14T14:04:00.000+05:302019-10-14T14:04:09.808+05:30Modern Medicine Pharmacology in BHMS Syllabus<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
On the topic of introduction of Modern Medicine Pharmacology in BHMS Syllabus:<br />
<br />
Advantages:<br />
<br />
1. Upgrading our status to 'complete doctors'<br />
World over and Nationally, we (alternative medicine practitioners - BAMS, BHMS, BUMS - do not get the same recognition and status as the MBBS counterparts even though in terms of time and effort we invest the same - 5 & 1/2 years of basic education for the undergraduate course<br />
Having knowledge of the MAINSTREAM system of medicine will only add to our arsenal and allow us to put our neck out and speak something without being ridiculed for the lack of knowledge<br />
<br />
2. Similar status will result in similar pay scale:<br />
BAMS, BHMS graduates who work hard as RMOs or other jobs in similar sectors are not paid a salary or remuneration at par with their MBBS colleagues. This can change if the syllabus becomes equivalent.<br />
This itself will make a major difference to the livelihood of many doctors and subsequently their families.<br />
The far-reaching impact of this can not be undermined for the emotional solidarity of a few<br />
<br />
3. Better opportunities:<br />
As per my personal experience in multiple rural sectors - there is a stark requirement for good doctors to provide better healthcare to the ever-expanding Indian populace!<br />
MBBS doctors are now serving a 5 years compulsory rural posting. The current Government intends to create 1,24,000 more Primary Health Centres. Especially those where Alternative Medicine practitioners would be allowed.<br />
This job opportunity represents an immense shift in potential financial outcomes as well as health care possibilities.<br />
<br />
4. Better ability to diagnose, monitor and treat patients:<br />
From knowing the side-effects better, to confidently conversing with the area GP/FP/ Consultant about the prognosis viz-a-viz side effects! There is no such thing as a Doctor who knows everything!<br />
Knowledge can never go waste and this is vital knowledge of what your prospective patients are ingesting ! & it effects.<br />
I am not going to delve into 'tapering' doses - because I am not sure that:<br />
A: It would still fall under our purview, as per law<br />
B: We should let the person who has been trained for it, deal with it.<br />
<i>Jiska jo kaam hai usko woh karne do</i><br />
Just because you can wield a screwdriver doesn't mean you become a carpenter.<br />
Same way a diabetologist is the EXPERT at tapering the dose. Let them do it. and GUIDE us - now that we would understand their vocabulary better.<br />
Let us focus on showing BETTER results with Homoeopathy<br />
<br />
5. Practical scenario<br />
90% of the students who opt for BHMS do so out of TINA factor. They will now have a better sense of pride since they will be better qualified.<br />
Even today, BHMS graduates RAMPANTLY practice Allopathy. Risking their careers and reputation while doing so (medicolegally).<br />
NOTHING we have done in last 20 years has changed this situation. We have neither helped them adopt Homoeopathy better, nor protected their interests better.<br />
Even when not taught allopathy, they have found their way, taken efforts and are practicing that.<br />
<br />
We should be confident about our science. If we are so sure that Homoeopathy works, then we must continue proving it to the world, such that those who think of taking up allopathy, see the results themselves - and decide what they want to practice!<br />
And I believe we HAVE done that - we have many Modern Medicine practitioners SUPPORTING, even converting to Homoeopathy.<br />
<br />
6. Stepping Stone<br />
I hope this becomes the first step of a major change - where after maybe a decade we see only ONE unified course for Undergraduate Doctors - MBBS (or the like). So that every undergraduate is a COMPLETE CLINICIAN and DOCTOR first.<br />
& Homoeopathy - as a system of therapeutics can be OPTED for as a Post-graduate specialization. Only then will we have a more refined, focussed set of individuals who will opt for our Science by CHOICE & INTEREST.<br />
Without a doubt such individuals would come with a more firm understanding of the science of medicine and thus produce even better results with Homoeopathy.<br />
<br />
7. Emergency and Limitations:<br />
As is already mentioned by our master - Dr. Samuel Hahnemann - Homoeopathy has limitations. Something we often conveniently ignore in our quest for other gains. It is not all pervasive. Suspended Animation and other such non-dynamic conditions need the use of anti-pathy & allopathy.<br />
The knowledge of these will only make us BETTER DOCTORS.<br />
By law all doctors are required to be able to perform a delivery! What more great contribution than BRINGING a life to the world.<br />
BAMS graduates are also able to perform surgeries.<br />
Maybe we shall get more empowered too !<br />
<br />
Disadvantages:<br />
<br />
1. Law - one can perceive this as a disadvantage - that once BHMS graduates have a working knowledge of modern medicine and the above mentioned advantages are granted - the LAW will be UNIFORMLY applicable to us then. Which, if we are not well versed, can be a double edged sword.<br />
That is for us to prepare for<br />
<br />
2. More number of practitioners opting for NOT practicing Homoeopathy: As I mentioned earlier, it hasn't stopped them today. Things are no different today. We may perhaps we blessed with staunch practitioners only!<br />
<br />
<br />
As for dark days of Homoeopathy:<br />
- The dark day of Homoeopathy was when Embryology was removed from our syllabus - and Homoeopaths who can modify genes with medicines weren't unfortunately blessed with solid backgrounds in their undergraduate days!<br />
- The dark day of Homoeopathy was when Biochemistry was reduced (pun intended) to a formality - and our basic foundation was left on unstable ground.<br />
- The dark day of Homoeopathy was when PSM was shifted to 4th year syllabus instead of setting the foundation early on. PREVENTION needs to be known well before TREATMENT<br />
- The dark day of Homoeopathy was when Forensic Medicine was reduced to a formality - and today we still struggle with Medical Jurisprudence and Death Certificate formalities<br />
- The dark day of Homoeopathy is EVERY year when close to 60 Doctors graduate from 190+ (43+ in Maharashtra alone) Homoeopathy Colleges all throughout the country - which are predominantly paper colleges and the students who graduate do not have basic understanding of Anatomy and Physiology - let alone Clinical Examination.<br />
And worse, most of us here - have done our M.D. from such colleges!</div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-41484899154390313342019-08-09T00:54:00.000+05:302019-08-09T00:54:02.452+05:30Recession? Indian Economic Scenario in Q2 2019.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
These days a LOT of messages are being circulated about the Indian economy going through recession.<br />Disclaimer: I am NOT an expert in economics, neither am I affiliated to any political party or trading firm.<br />
<br />
These are just my thoughts on the current situation.<br />
Just my 2 paise ...<br />
<br />
There is a MASSIVE amount of money that has disappeared from 'circulation'.<br />
Legit, White, Black, Fake - whatever you call it.<br />
<br />
Starting from DeMo, going on the numerous IT raids, to big known cases like Mallya, Modi, Chowksi - as well as many small relatively unheard of cases in Kutchi Samaj, some Gujurati Mandals (approx 4 to 10 _thousand_ crores) ... and ending in 2019 elections ... where a lot of people were forced to pump in money to the other side as well.<br />
When they did NOT win, that money, too - gone.<br />
<br />
Like Thanos's snap...<br />
<br />
So the money is gone. It was 'notional' any which way. It has already been usurped. Most of it was never 'intended' to be repaid either.<br />
<br />
Then there's also less liquid money flowing in.<br />
Many lucrative posts with regular under-the-table dealings are now 'clean'. Those office bearers have had a massive hit on their overall income.<br />
Then the middlemen who would swallow the 'Government scheme' funds which were meant for the common man - WHICH is now reaching the common man (& woman) DIRECTLY even in the villages, thanks to Aadhaar & Bank Account linking ....<br />
<br />
Many such examples of 'easy' money and fancy lifestyle - STUCK.<br />
<br />
Real estate slump was LONG overdue.<br />
<br />
Auto-sector slump is cyclical. More so because of BS VI as well as EV policy push - both together.<br />
It will be fine in a while.<br />
<br />
But this whole 'recession' thing - I FEEL - is not as huge as it is being MADE to sound.<br />
People are still enjoying, going on foreign holidays, spending on popcorn at movie theatres, visiting fine dining restaurants and buying expensive phones.<br />
<br />
'Projected' growth by MBAs were never in sync with reality. & fortunately, that bubble is bursting.<br />
<br />
Companies & People with rock-solid foundations + principles will weather the storm.<br />
Some shady ones will go down for sure.<br />
<br />
A little bit of clean up and shakedown.<br />
<br />
Some rich guys will get a little poor. Some poor guys will get a little rich (owing to numerous subsidies & sops)<br />
The middle class will remain sandwiched in the middle.<br />
<br />
My genuine request to ALL INDIANS:<br />
1. Differentiate between Needs and Wants<br />
2. Invest in tools that last, rather than fads<br />
3. Be Indian. Buy Indian.<br />
From Clothes to Cell Phones to Cars ... SEE the label. If it says Made in 'C' ... and there is an _almost_ equal option that DOES FULFIL your *needs* that says Made in India ... PLEASE opt for the latter.<br />
<br />
Don't be myopic in your way of living, be organic.<br />
<br />
The problem isn't just the economy - WE ARE THE ECONOMY.<br /><br />One of the World's most promising and lucrative economies!<br />We... the People!</div>
Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08715726503282996244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-33740699962327132472019-07-24T17:11:00.001+05:302024-01-04T16:02:06.848+05:30Renewal of MCH Registration<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For most Homoeopaths, the once in 5 years renewal of Registration Certificate with the Maharashtra Council of Homoeopathy poses new questions and challenges.<br />
<br />
Often intertwined with:<br />
Degree update (instructions coming soon)<br />
&<br />
Name change (instructions coming soon)<br />
<br />
Thankfully, with the times - MCH has also upgraded their office and website.<br />
One need not go to the swanky new office at all!<br />
The renewal can be done right from the comfort of your home.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Phase 1</u></b></div>
Before you begin for renewal please keep the following things handy:<br />
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<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Original Registration Certificate</li>
<li>1 passport size photo - scanned on your computer</li>
<li>Aadhar card scan on your computer - front and back BOTH on 1 page - as JPG image (not PDF of e-Aadhar)</li>
<li>Passport scan</li>
<li>PAN card scan</li>
<li>Scan of your signature on a blank piece of paper.</li>
<li>2 A4 size blank papers for printing</li>
<li>1 big green cloth courier envelope for posting</li>
<li>Netbanking details / Debit Card / Credit card for payment.</li>
</ol>
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<b><u>Phase 2</u></b></div>
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Now navigate to : </div>
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<a href="https://www.mchmumbai.org/">MCH Website</a></div>
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Click on 'Renewal' in the Right hand side column.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcdy_qRb3-HYfzdrL9fMrNPFXPWTeQyPjlmb9H6GWxhNiv9DMPok4n4F6HSZqsJ474SvyOv5zMphMuBoH3Q83vxmG4N9WTKdyj1cd52qsGrqq6Aoy4Qzt8UCa9prYCIwcnE0xSfg-5vGC/s1600/Screenshot+2019-07-24+at+15.04.46.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="1600" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNcdy_qRb3-HYfzdrL9fMrNPFXPWTeQyPjlmb9H6GWxhNiv9DMPok4n4F6HSZqsJ474SvyOv5zMphMuBoH3Q83vxmG4N9WTKdyj1cd52qsGrqq6Aoy4Qzt8UCa9prYCIwcnE0xSfg-5vGC/s320/Screenshot+2019-07-24+at+15.04.46.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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You will be asked to Login.</div>
If you haven't already registered on the MCH Website please do so by clicking on 'Create Account'.<br />
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Once you have successfully logged in you will immediately need few details from your Registration Certificate (Number and date of Registration) - and your date of birth.</div>
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Once you enter that, it will take you to the Application page where you must enter all the details asked for.</div>
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After that, please upload EACH image as required - viz. Passport sized photo, Aadhaar card scan etc.</div>
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If you are unable to upload any of these please check if the file format is jpg or jpeg. and check the SIZE of the file.</div>
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To make the images smaller in size:</div>
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If you are using Windows - the default Paint application will help you resize the image. Usually the 2nd box on the top ribbon, left hand side.</div>
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If you are using Mac - the default Preview option has a 'Change size' feature under Tools. Very convenient.</div>
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Keep reducing the pixels or resolution (600 x 400) till the file size is under 200 to 400 kb.</div>
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If none of this works, one can try an online image resize tool like : https://resizeimage.net/</div>
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<i>Caution - do this at your own risk!</i></div>
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After this once you submit the application you will get to a page where you can PRINT your own application.</div>
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Please PRINT the application immediately on a blank regular A4 sized paper. It need not be a colour print.</div>
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Also, please SAVE the application as PDF.</div>
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<b><u>Phase 3</u></b></div>
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Go back to the MCH site on the right hand side bottom of the bar, click on Pay Now.</div>
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Make sure you have your Application number and Netbanking details / Debit Card / Credit Card handy.</div>
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It will lead you to the SBI Payment Gateway. </div>
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Follow the instructions given by MCH here - in this <a href="https://www.mchmumbai.org/PDF/How%20to%20pay%20online.pdf">PDF document</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It is very detailed and they have provided a very easy to understand instructions with screenshots.</div>
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Do NOT forget to take a PRINT of the Payment Receipt.</div>
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<b><u>Phase 4</u></b></div>
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Once you have a print out of</div>
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1. Application Form</div>
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2. Payment Receipt</div>
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attach it with ORIGINAL REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE and POST it / Courier it to the MCH office.</div>
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Use a big A4 size green cloth envelope. Do NOT fold the documents,</div>
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MCH Address is :</div>
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Maharashtra Council of Homoeopathy.</div>
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The Registrar,</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">235 PENINSULA HOUSE, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">3RD FLOOR, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">DR. D.N. RD,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Fort </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Mumbai - 400001</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Do NOT forget to mention YOUR address on the envelope. You can send via Courier (Vichare / Professional / DTDC / Maruti or any such) or even by SPEED POST from your nearby post office.</span></div>
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<b>End of process.</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Usually within 15 days you get a SMS update as well as the original registration certificate is re-stamped (extension of 5 years) and sent back to your address.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">In case that does not happen in 15 days -</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">please call MCH on Help-line: 022-22704400 (Help Line Number is available from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">or email them with application details at : mail@mchmumbai.org</span><br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1jMoOwpRixC1C4jPEnbMj5vU4dotgg9aVw0hDV1S9aXM/viewform" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="1417" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPcJNAPOjAjNPrkmzZ722fU-jBDs4iz8U9o7ZIW01amIxVsqHDjMO4bTVjABYuBgMeydgFudUWgdSb5LdUN70_O7aK-lX-Fm0_t9zDHUjaARUZfy9J_63fAjqxvMnCD4g4aS5ijHAqzx3/s320/Hom%25C5%2593pathy+Doctor+Logo+-+JPG.jpg" title="Homeopathy Doctor Logo" width="320" /></a></div>
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NCH Form Update on MCH Portal - Video Tutorial
https://youtu.be/3sbR2Y37bZs
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-60901489571181209352015-08-11T01:04:00.000+05:302015-08-11T01:05:56.917+05:30Xiaomi Mi Band v/s Micromax Yu Fit Band - Comparison & Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Having used 2 Xiaomi Mi Bands - from Flipkart</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">&</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">then managed to get a Micromax Yu Fit Band - from the very first sale.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is an extremely to the point comparison / review between the two.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*I am on my 4th day of using the Yu Fit band. I used the Mi Band for 20 days - each of them conked off within 7 to 10 days and Flipkart replaced it once, the second time they were nice enough to refund my money and I purchased the Yu Fit.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Advantage Yu Fit - or in most cases - Disadvantage of Mi Band</b></span></span><br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Band is softer. Better feel and comfort. The Mi Band got really dirty to use by the end of the week. The Yu Fit band just feels much better to use and clasp on.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Display is a lovely addition. Actually useful. It does double up as a watch if nothing else. Which is nice. I don't need to wear my Timex Ironman on some basic runs. When it vibrates - I actually know what it's trying to say, whether it's an alarm, a msg, a call, a warning - with the Mi Band - you had to look at your phone. <i>Would it be too much to ask them to display the number when alerting of an incoming call? ;)</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Accuracy is better than the Mi Band. The Mi Band would count ALL my hand movements as steps and I would end up achieving my 'goal' within half a day. The Mi Band does count <i>some</i> hand movements - but essentially I end up meeting the <b>same goal</b> almost at the end of the day. In the same circumstances. Definitely real time accuracy is better.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The healthify me app is actually the first of its kind that I am using. Calorie counting for Indian food. It is actually this app that makes the band what it is. I really wish it was better merged with the Yu Fit app. It does get irritating to switch between the apps. Essentially you just have a few settings in the Yu Fit app - the rest is all in Healthify app. The calorie counting bit is really nice. Pure fitness freaks - it's a dream come true! The app is smooth. Fluid. Plenty of settings, swipes and a LOT of info pumped in neatly. It get's better by day as it gets customized to your needs. <i>I have NOT used the pro version yet.</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some additional gimmicks thrown in for good measure. e.g. Capture pics & video from the phone, using the band. So essentially for this - you HAVE to go and launch it on your phone. It there could be some gesture or pattern on the band that would do it - it would be much better. The SOS function is brilliant too. Nifty tool, if you ask me. But it does get launched VERY easily. </span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br style="background-color: #fafafa; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;" /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); line-height: 19px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>Disadvantage Yu also translates to Advantage Mi :</b></span></span><br />
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Battery life. The screen obviously makes a difference here. Mi band lasted more than 45 days on a single charge. The Yu Fit band will barely make it 10. 10 is not so bad, but with the OLED display I definitely expected more. The OLED dispaly does look very flimsy and <i>cheap</i> at some angles. But it's quite robust.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sleep cycle. It was brilliantly tracked and displayed with the Mi Band. The deep sleep bit, the lgith sleep auto detection and subsequent wake up alarm, the ability to edit my sleep time (example - I left the band lying around since 22:30, but actually went to sleep wearing it at 23:45, the next day I could change the time manually to eliminate the '<i>deep sleep</i>' from 22:30 to 23:45. Not so with the Yu Fit band. They want to me to define a SET time zone during which it will detect the sleep - EVERYday! That just does not happen! Unless you are in the army, right? Also the Yu Fit does not give as much importance to this sleep feature as the Mi Band did. Some software kinks, can easily be sorted or enabled with an update - if they try. (Healthify Me - that's for you)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rotation. Right hand or left hand detection. And screen orientation. Sorely missed in Yu Fit band. Makes the button awkward to wear on right hand and prone to accidental presses. While this was given as a 'setting' in the Mi Band - where you could choose what hand you would wear it in. The Yu Fit band should DEFINITELY have it - and rotate the screen according to the option chose such that the 'button' is on the inner (medial side, medically speaking) side of your body - which would make it less awkward to press when wearing it on your right hand, and also less prone to accidental presses.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bluetooth detection. This seems to be a bit of an issue with the Micromax Yu Fit band. For starters, even after pairing it does not show up in the 'bluetooth devices menu' - even when paired. Which makes it impossible to use as a 'trusted device' to unlock. 1 simple feature lost. Secondly, the band just keeps loosing connection with the phone every now and then - and then starts warning you - with full volume alarms on your phone! (<i>can be turned off in the settings, thankfully) </i>but definitely needs a software tweak.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Vibration on the Yu Fit band is not as strong as the Mi Band. Tried multiple times. This was immensely useful as the wake up alarm, which incidentally was much better in the Mi Band (read #2 in this list) and the Mi Band allowed multiple alarms, while the Yu Fit band allows only one!</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Overall, even if you remove the 'Healthify Me app' from the picture - just as fitness bands - at the same price - Rs. 999 - the Micromax Yu Fit Band is <i>definitely </i>a much better choice than the Xiaomi Mi Band.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The app - makes it <b>practically functional </b>and complete.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Most importantly - the Xiaomi Mi Band - does actually conk off within a few days of usage!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Disastrous! What happens once my 30 day window period with Flipkart is over?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fingers crossed, on the quality of the Micromax Yu Fit Band.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They are both quite sturdy in their build (the sensors) and waterproof (well tested).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Both seem to be sourced completely from our next door neighbours, yet the Micromax Yu Fit band is a significantly better product that ultimately does benefit our own health and country wealth (<i>and you thought you won't see that factor being mentioned here, like it is with almost <b>every</b> post on this blog - <b>Be Indian, Buy Indian</b>)</i>. ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tried to keep the points limited to 5.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Feel free to ask any queries in the comments section and I shall do my best to reply to them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You can also A.S.K. (Always Seek Knowledge) at ... <a href="http://www.knowledgejunction.in/">www.KnowledgeJunction.in</a></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-12253951197762230162015-04-18T01:39:00.002+05:302015-04-18T01:39:25.810+05:30World Homeopathy Summit - Global Homeopathy Foundation - A report<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
World Homeopathy Summit - Global Homeopathy Foundation - A report (objective)<br />
http://www.globalhomeopathyfoundation.com/<br />
<br />
Trying to summarize day 1 (11th April 2015):<br />
<br />
One of the few conferences where there was no unnecessary in your face advertising or forceful ego kissing<br />
<br />
Basically, lot of speakers including some microbiologists. Physicists from Brazil, USA and Italy as well as plenty of CCRH & Research oriented Indian speakers like Dr. Praful Barvalia. & some from IIT Bombay too<br />
<br />
The point tried to convey was :<br />
Proving existence of Nano particles and even Quantum Dots on Transmission Electron Microscopy as well as Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy.<br />
<br />
Especially metals like Aurum, Cooper, Arsenic and some vegetable elements like NaCl and Carbon on Carbo Veg - for potencies up to 50M at 500 nanometer magnification and even 10micro meter magnification.<br />
<br />
Also some other scientific tests done in different countries.<br />
Randomized Double blind placebo control trials and their results.<br />
<br />
Difficulties faced while doing such experiments.<br />
Caution to be maintained.<br />
<br />
Where Shang whose article in Lancet was there, went wrong.<br />
<br />
Discovery of newer molecules.<br />
Tracking white light of molecules with laser assisted technology and how the graph differed for each potency.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Global Homeopathy Foundation<br />
World Homeopathy Summit<br />
<br />
Day 2 - 12th April.<br />
<br />
The ripples created by day 1 - soon assumed the proportion of a storm, just as day 2 began.<br />
<br />
The 3 main questions:<br />
1. Does Homeopathy work<br />
2. How does Homeopathy work<br />
3. Where does Homeopathy work<br />
<br />
Partly answered on day 1 - when all of us went into awe & shock to see Nano particles & Quantum dots of medicines like Aurum Met & Cuprum Met at 1M, 10M & even 50 CM potencies.<br />
<br />
So what was day 2 like.<br />
<br />
Day 2 - was revolutionary!<br />
<br />
The 2nd session of the day was met with a STANDING Ovation. The only one in both the days. Well-deserved.<br />
For the man, a living legend - Dr. A. R. Khuda Baksh.<br />
Every Homeopath must read about the FANTASTIC and extensive research done by him. He has MANY MANY papers published.<br />
He has been fighting our battle.<br />
In-vivo and in-vitro experiments - all WITHIN the boundaries of humanity - PROVING that Homeopathy works and where it works.<br />
He answered some really critical questions.<br />
MUST go through his re-search papers.<br />
<br />
Then few more speakers, few more experiments.<br />
e.g Injecting the left paw of mice with RA factor - measuring their inflammation, pain threshold and then -<br />
showing that Mag. Phos acts better to give relief than Diclofenac, TNF-Alpha & Capscisin<br />
<br />
Another researcher from Brazil who enlightened us about the many regular researches being conducted on mice in Brazil and Italy - as a joint exercise.<br />
<br />
Another highlight of the day was Dr. G. D. Jindal and his team from BARC, Mumbai - who showed us how they used machines to monitor blood flow at thigh, knee & ankle,<br />
as well as heart rate - after administering different drugs in different potencies.<br />
There was a lot of technicality involved - but after having tested 23000+ readings they showed what the readings of Sulphur would look like - and that the medicines they ordered from Fr. Muller's - Sulphur 30 & Sulphur 1M showed consisten readings - but Sulphur 200 did not.<br />
They started looking into more detail and realized that some potencies were not "correct" - as in they realized that in many drugs - sometimes the stock that they received was not 'upto the mark'.<br />
Interesting indeed - they say they need more research to ascertain it. But - there might be some way to determine the potency and drug of a liquid - kind of find out the remedy just from the dilution.<br />
<br />
The surprise package of the day was Dr. Upama - a Zoologist - who had no idea of Homeopathy - but had was researching with mice and malaria.<br />
While she was conducting trials with Quinine, Artemisinine - she came across the Cinchona and Homeopathy.<br />
& she proved that Cinchona and Chelidonium were far more effective in treating Malaria - than Falcigo DS.<br />
Including quicker and significant decrease in Liver enzyme levels.<br />
<br />
The ONLY Homeopath to come up on stage in both the days was Dr. Tapas Kundu - who was recenty featured in the newspapers for his research - treating Haemophilia with Homeopathy and giving a reduction in cost of treatment by almost 85% compared to Allopathic medicines.<br />
Giving better results. Live monitoring and cessation of blood flow within 15 minutes - wit clot formation.<br />
(this was reminiscent of the usual Homeopathy seminars we usually attend) - and was met with enthusiastic response.<br />
<br />
The conference went on for long beyond 6 pm and I could not stay back since I had some other commitments.<br />
So I missed out on the last discussion.<br />
<br />
But otherwise quite interesting, motivating, inspiring also (so many NON-homeopaths - scientists - working FOR our science - except us).<br />
<br />
Let's see what GHF does now. Seems to be a good start.<br />
Aude Sapere.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-59240760471350599102014-09-04T19:55:00.000+05:302014-09-04T19:55:23.873+05:30Why Tata .... <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Recently I have been questioned by 4 important people in my life - about this question - </div>
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"Why continue buying Tata cars and risk it or gamble it, why continue putting so much blind faith and trust in Tata cars and products, why invest so much time on Tata?"</div>
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It reached it's pinnacle of discussion recently after test driving the fabulous Tata Zest and why not go for the more reliable and trustworthy Maruti cars.</div>
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Because those people matter a lot to me and are significantly influential in all my decisions of life - it made me re-think and re-list for myself to answer the question Why Tata?</div>
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General discussion about Maruti v/s Tata ... and why Tata.</div>
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A very important question-</div>
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There is no doubt that Maruti is the NO. 1 passenger vehicle manufacturer in India.</div>
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Strong market share between 40 to 50%</div>
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& definitely the largest portfolio, with maximum variety - a car for every need and every pocket. 100% reliable too. Maybe even better than Toyota ;)</div>
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They have had a few flops too - A star, Grand Vitara, Kizashi - who doesn't ?</div>
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Yet - the question - why go for Tata. </div>
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Primarily - yes Tata has it's faults.</div>
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Reliability is a question, yes - some things crop up every 6 to 8 months and like any Tata product the 2nd version is best.</div>
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But that is DEFINITELY changing at every level</div>
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Buying ANY Tata product - is not a decision based on the product, it is based on the company philosophy and policy. </div>
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It is not so much about the products(s) - any of them - as the manufacturer / seller.</div>
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1. Why the reliability issues in Tata cars - because of too many vendors - too many manufacturers manufacturing the same part - hence quality is not controlled. Why so many vendors? - Because when Tata made the 1st indigenous car - Indica - it set up along with a 1000 crore+ plant - a HUGE number of parts and component manufacturers and vendors - so that it is ALL made in India rather than importing parts. Thereby - making more revenue and industrial strength for India as a country and enabling EXPORTS. </div>
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All these people, who stood by Ratan Tata for that project - and invested in setting up these industries - he never betrayed them or left them halfway. That is why - till date they were ALL active. Recently after he retired. there was a change in management - and yet - they did not kick out the old loyal vendors. They just re-organized the entire parts system such that 1 part is now manufactured by only 1 or at the most 2 vendors and each one of them is now answerable for it, accountable for it and is penalized if found faulty. Thus it becomes more easy to locate the origin of the fault and rectify it.</div>
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EVERY company has faulty parts. Even Six Sigma certified companies like Motorola and Toyota are suffering serious quality issues. MAJOR recalls by Toyota and Honda in last 5 years. VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) has had massive DSG gearbox failures all over the world, including India costing 85000 Rs. to the customer to repair. Recent times even Mercs in India are not spared and more the localization (read built / made / assembled in India) more the faults and quality decline.</div>
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Even PM Narendra Modi is urging the manufacturers to bring up Indian manufacturing pace and quality. Today when we look upto and applaud Micromax, Tata has been following that model and doing better at it since decades.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Which brings me to ORGANIC growth.</div>
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<br /></div>
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2. Any company can offer rich benefits upfront as a gamble to make a foray into a segment or make a splash (read stunts like Xiaomi) and then later recover costs or make profits in spares, service in long term. That's always the Korean way (Hyundai and Samsung)</div>
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The Indian market is a tricky one - even giants like Toyota publicly bowed out of the small car segment. VAG failed at achieving their targets and after their initial spurt (again Indian herd mentality hype) are now languishing at the bottom end of the sales charts with lacklustre portfolios.</div>
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Honda too had it's slump - for a good 2 years and more - but it fought back with Amaze. Similarly, Tata had a slump - complacence, mismanagement, global bands swayed off fickle minded Indians - whatever the reason - it is now fighting back with Zest. Look at the 'fight back' - 2 companies - same scenario - Tata is putting up a MUCH better fight.</div>
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Organic growth - is like an old jungle saying "When the Lion feeds, the jungle feasts" they never eat alone.</div>
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Organic growth - ensures that all around you and in association with you grow as well as you give back and make it sustainable in the long term.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Today, year after year, decade after decade - Tata Sons - in ALL their avatars - have set standards of organic growth.</div>
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ANY Tata employee will tell you - we are not employees. We are family. </div>
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Take any example - be it the Second Career Internship Training Programme for Women or the Okra tribal community that has been spun into a global art form, while preserving the fishing village.</div>
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Any Tata company is ranked amongst the top 5 companies that preserve ecology and have minimal carbon footprint or deleterious effects on the environment around them.</div>
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Their re-use policies, filtration plants are some of the best globally.</div>
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<br /></div>
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When it comes to Tata Motors - 72% of the components used in their cars are RECYCLABLE or Bio-degradable. Most other companies have it around 45 to 55%</div>
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Let's talk contribution to society - every business is done for profit. And nobody out there does any kind of business without the intention to profit. CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) - by law is to be 2% of your net profit.</div>
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Yet for DECADES - Tata group has been spending 50 to 60% of their net profit on CSR.</div>
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And yes, they are STILL making a profit - year after year. If that's not good business, then what is?</div>
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Think of them in relation to Wayne Enterprises - the Bruce Wayne and Batman for the Indian subcontinent.</div>
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Making money by day - silently spending 100s of crores for the country and betterment of society - not just mankind but every possible living organism.</div>
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I agree - that alone - cannot be a reason just to go out and buy a product ... wait isn't that what we do at charitable auctions or other such charitable gala?</div>
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Spend money to buy a product, probably not worth it's price - because we know the money is going to be used for a good cause?</div>
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I think of EVERY Tata product in the same light.</div>
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When it comes to country - Tata's are known for NOT breaking laws, NOT giving in to corruption and bribes. They have refused to start companies when asked for bribes and shelved projects when it was not in complete synergy with the growth of the nation.</div>
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Any error by any employee or official of the company - is met with a public apology and at NO point is the customer ever made to loose money, biggest example is that of Tata Finance disaster.</div>
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New ideas, new concepts - always demand guts and risk. So far Tata Motors is a PIONEERING organization. Not once, not twice - umpteen times it has brought about revolutionary, market changing, path breaking products / concepts / strategies. Sierra, Estate (1st station wagon), Indica, Sumo, Safari (1st SUV), Indigo CS (created the class of compact sedan) and the world wide acclaimed - NANO. A feat no other company has ever been able to replicate despite big companies like Bajaj & Renault tying up.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Tata Motors has failed at ONE thing - CONSTANTLY. Marketing. They never believed in selling their products, but the Indian mind set is such that <i>jo dikhta hai woh bikta hai' </i> and people would pay double for the glamour, ads, brand ambassador or just brand premium (this is the same philosophy that Xiaomi has sought to break through by pricing the phone at it's 'cost price')</div>
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But they are improving there too.</div>
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<br /></div>
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3. Now coming to actual products -</div>
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<br /></div>
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There's a saying amongst petrol heads (automobile enthusiasts or car lovers)</div>
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"If you park it and don't look back at it ... it means you bought the wrong car"</div>
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<br /></div>
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Money can buy you anything today... almost anything.</div>
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Is it not assumed that the primary purpose of money is to buy you happiness?</div>
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<br /></div>
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Well, for me, atleast - not a SINGLE Maruti product 'excites' me. None of them are desirable or have any outstanding quality that would make me feel nice in driving them everyday.</div>
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None of them have that 'x' factor that would make me smile everytime I sit in one (barring the Gypsy)</div>
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<br /></div>
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Don't get me wrong - they are good products. Solid. But ordinary. Run of the mill. Standard. As common as the next one.</div>
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Doesn't mean I go for a Renault Pulse or a Chevrolet Sail U-Va just so I feel exclusive or different (the point is not to stick out like a sore thumb or make a fool of myself).</div>
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<br /></div>
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I can't fault Maruti - except for a lacklustre equipment list and uninspiring designs.</div>
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When I buy a car - it is usually a integral part of my life for atleast half a decade! During which I would not want to feel left out everytime I take a peek at the dashboard of the car next to me at a traffic signal and then look at the poor excuse of a dashboard / equipment list in my car. Why crib and feel inferior for 5 years!</div>
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Safety - also is usually reserved only for the Zxi variants of most Maruti cars, which are significantly expensive.</div>
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When Tata offers an upgraded comprehensive equipment list in it's top end - you definitely don't feel the pinch for a good 3 to 4 years.</div>
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Example - Manza in 2011 at 8.8 Lakhs - ABS + Airbag + speed sensor door auto lock + audio controlled phone and music system on steering + bluetooth with multiple pairing - back then most cars in that segment did not have steering mounted controls.</div>
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The only other car comparable in rear space is Sunny. Nissan Sunny - even today at 9.6 lakhs does not offer ABS & Airbags. Steering mounted ONLY audio - not bluetooth.</div>
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And let's not even discuss spares - example the front bumper of Nissan and Renault are the SAME. Yet it costs 6500 for Renault and 8300 for Nissan !</div>
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Forget reliability for a moment - and think accidents that happen anytime in Mumbai. Scratches. Stones falling, Bikers, Pot holes - anything you can think of - can happen.</div>
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Don't say 'IF' - that's precisely how the insurance industry works ;)</div>
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<br /></div>
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Let's talk practical experience</div>
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Manza - electronically operated outer mirror with company painted matching shade - 1500 Rs.</div>
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Company manufactured toughened factory tinted window glass - 1100 Rs.</div>
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Nano - AC vent 95 Rs.</div>
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Manza brake & clutch pedals - 34 Rs.</div>
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Nano - Axle - 1500 Rs.</div>
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<br /></div>
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One can't compare the FUN of driving a Nano to the weird shape of the Alto 800 or the Celerio</div>
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Can't compare the sofa and hall of Manza to the claustrophobic Dzire</div>
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<br /></div>
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Probably the only 2 products if I were forced to buy from Maruti woulds be Swift or Ertiga.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Another point is the feel - the experience.</div>
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As a customer at Maruti - you are another customer of the lakhs that they have. At any of the service centre's there is no escalation response or any special privileges.</div>
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<br /></div>
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ONE trip to a Concorde workshop - and you realize the difference.</div>
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One can argue that CCD coffee, free Wifi, Dell Vostro laptops or tablets for the service advisors make no difference.</div>
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Maybe not even the pick up drop service, separate drivers lounge etc.</div>
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Agreed - but do we not pay MONEY for the 'experience'.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The feel, the thrill, the comfort, the joy, the satisfaction - the experience.</div>
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The food at Hotel Central Peninsula and Peninsula will more or less be the same! - Yet the price varies - because the experience varies, the feel varies.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Same applies to the service centre of a car. The workshop. Ideally you would visit once a year per car - minimum. For service.</div>
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There are bound to be some other minor issues that crop up in every car - and if you are as fastidious about maintenance as me, then your bulb change, wiper change, 3M treatment and Wurth cleaning, Anti-rust, teflon et.c would all be done at the authorized service center rather than Koliwada or Milan subway.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So minimum 2 trips a year - and in both those trips - the feel, the experience - where you are given importance as a customer, treated with respect, good relations maintained by service advisors, invited for various customer meets and sent for movies and dinners complimentary ... all that ... when you actually paid significantly LESSER money than the competition when you bought their product (even the 'inexpensive' Nano customer like me - where the Nano top end is 1.3 lakhs cheaper than an equally equipped Alto 800) .. all of that DOES matter.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Because THAT is what we always pay for right?</div>
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<br /></div>
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Hasslefree service, tension free, peace of mind (with Gold AMC is unparalleled).</div>
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<br /></div>
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The feel, the experience - that's the difference between countless other hings we spend or splurge upon - from the type of grocery shopping, to the restaurant we choose to eat or the brands we wear.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Do we base our underwear on public perception - as to what people will think if the band shows? No. We base it on our comfort. (if you actually do that ... God bless you).</div>
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<br /></div>
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Similarly - why base any purchase in life based on what someone else will think about it. You buy it with your own hard earned money for your own pleasure, satisfaction and that smile on your face.</div>
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If you are not utilizing money to get pleasure - then you are doing it all wrong.</div>
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<br /></div>
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When you sit in a fully equipped Tata car like the Zest, or the spacious sedan like Manza and drive out of their service center - you have that smile, that satisfaction.</div>
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Then why would you care about anyone else driving by who wonders why you bought a Tata car - because they will never know.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Because a Tata car - like almost everything Tata - is not about the product. It is about a way of life - known as Tata.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It is most often than not a simple decision of whether you live by your heart or the analysis of your mind.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It's not a common dilemma - because most often that not - once you experience a Tata car first hand - your heart and mind get synced.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-21328690799597910672014-08-15T09:40:00.000+05:302019-07-24T22:46:19.375+05:30Happy Independence Day 2014<p dir="ltr">Why is it that only today we are proud to be Indian, <br>And the other days we do deeds that makes the world detest Indians <br>When we remain friends even after friendship day<br>When we remain brothers even after raksha Bandhan, <br>Why is it that our flag is never our Dp again before 26th January? </p><p dir="ltr">We forward jokes and senti messages all year round. <br>But patriotic messages only twice a year. </p><p dir="ltr">It's because the other times we are too busy to think of our mother land, and these 2 days it's fashionable to change your Dp and talk patriotic. </p><p dir="ltr">Patriotism is not the mere love for your country. </p><p dir="ltr">A patriot is one who thinks of the welfare of his country and countrymen. <br>Patriotism is also the desire to compete with other nations - no not just cricket, but cleanliness, hygiene, literacy, standard of living, GDP, mortality rates. </p><p dir="ltr">It is patriotic to say that my country is the safest for women. <br>Can you proudly say it? <br>Probably a guy in the Taliban will say it more proudly than you can. (Google the stats yourself) </p><p dir="ltr">Can you proudly say my country / city is the cleanest, well planned, most developed? </p><p dir="ltr">Then what are we proud about? <br>And what are we celebrating? <br>Just another day, another excuse to forward messages on social media and messengers? </p><p dir="ltr">What's the you say?<br>Independence? Freedom? </p><p dir="ltr">From.... ? <br>British regime. Foreign rule? <br>Really? <br>Are you absolutely sure your actions and words are not controlled or determined by any Western influences even today? </p><p dir="ltr">Freedom? <br>Freedom of what? <br>Let's see you voice your true opinion about a politician on Facebook. <br>Let's see you let your daughter roam alone in some parts of the city. </p><p dir="ltr">Do we even exhibit an iota of the valour and courage exhibited by our beloved freedom fighters. </p><p dir="ltr">Even I don't have the freedom keep writing on. There's a word limit! </p><p dir="ltr">We took 15 years just to change our government. </p><p dir="ltr">We changed in May. 5 months ago. <br>Ask yourself - how much have you changed after the day? <br>You forwarded a dozen messages before and after. <br>Praising. Cribbing. Expecting 1 man to change a country populated with more than a billion people. <br>But not even 1% of those billion want to change themselves. </p><p dir="ltr">Be the change you want to see. <br>Don't just change your status or profile pic. <br>Change the way you talk and think. <br>And then change what you do. <br>I assure you India will feel different and new. </p><p dir="ltr">Jai Hind. <br>Vande Mataram. </p><p dir="ltr">- Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwani <br>an Indian whose nationality or feeling of Patriotism is not determined by the date on the calendar. It's ubiquitous as the corruption in this country and as constant as my blood group.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-90685128129612491372014-04-08T11:26:00.000+05:302019-07-24T22:46:19.403+05:30Vote for the Indian Voter! <p dir="ltr">Laughter is a good medicine and they say he who can laugh at himself is the happiest.</p><p dir="ltr">But it's one thing to find humour in everything and another to become laughing stock or the butt of all jokes.</p><p dir="ltr">And with the latest tirade of jokes doing the rounds about the elections, the joke is on us - the Indian voter.</p><p dir="ltr">The one who laments and lambasts the woes of the common man but lacks the common sense and gets herded like the common cow and is shooed away after the elections like the common crow.</p><p dir="ltr">We are led to believe we are choosing our leader or making our future.<br>What we essentially are is a number so miniscule and tiny that quantum physics alone can relate and explain the impact of ONE INDIAN VOTER.</p><p dir="ltr">Nope, there aren't any atoms in us that can bring about fission or fusion.<br>We just keep on orbiting arbitrarily. </p><p dir="ltr">Run like the hamster on the wheel while being fed a liberal dose of 'news' to keep our interests piqued. </p><p dir="ltr">Laugh!<br>While you can.<br>As they laugh all the way to the bank.<br>Look in the mirror. And laugh.<br>Laugh as hard as you can.</p><p dir="ltr">Maybe...just maybe it may heal your wounds.</p><p dir="ltr">- Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwani</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Mumbai,19.046783 72.863785tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-69708639520398597932013-08-15T01:40:00.000+05:302013-08-15T01:40:21.111+05:30The Independent Awakening<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
'The Independent Awakening'<br />
<br />
Sorry this is not another joke on the prices or politicians,<br />
Neither is it a piece dedicated to filmi or religious devotions.<br />
<br />
Everyone seems to cribbing about all that is wrong,<br />
And eagerly forwarding jokes and making up parody songs.<br />
<br />
Convenient to abuse the guys who should actually be flogged,<br />
But what did YOU do about it?<br />
A like on FB, a tweet or +1ed a Blog?<br />
<br />
You may not value the freedom you possess,<br />
But 'they' do know how to make you indulge in excess.<br />
<br />
You, me, we... The Youth, the majority of this Republic,<br />
These economic parasites have set shop to loot our public<br />
<br />
They are deciding how you spend, how you save,<br />
They manipulate and market and make you crave,<br />
You think you are free,<br />
But you are still a slave.<br />
<br />
Wake up, past midnight<br />
For the Tryst with Destiny has not been met.<br />
<br />
Realize and unleash the Power of YOU<br />
Time for the vows to renew<br />
And for the decade to come to script a story brand new.<br />
<br />
Too old fashioned to use a pen,<br />
Use your fingers and click away at your keyboards,<br />
The economic war is on and the cyber war is coming,<br />
Your clear conscience and undeterred will are your sharpest swords.<br />
<br />
Come on cyber India, wake up the Youth of India.<br />
Make the move, even a pawn can change the course of play,<br />
Fight the battle not for the 'Kings' but for your own clay,<br />
Not your loyalties but make the crops in the green fields sway,<br />
Make it for all of us a Happy Independence Day!<br />
<br />
- Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwani</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-78644531365121828602013-07-17T10:55:00.000+05:302013-07-17T10:55:30.928+05:30Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon 2014<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Greetings,</div>
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<br /></div>
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While most of us were eagerly awaiting this:</div>
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<br />Registrations for the Mumbai Marathon 2014 (to be held on 19th January 2014)</div>
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are going to begin on :</div>
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19th July 2013.</div>
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<br /></div>
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2 days from now.</div>
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<br />This is the website: <a href="http://www.procamrunning.in/scmm/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: arial;">http://www.procamrunning.in/scmm/</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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While usually I handle the registrations for everyone, the last 2 years,</div>
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the organizers have made it extremely tough for 1 person to sit and make that many transactions,</div>
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at the same time they have also made it simpler and easier for genuine runners to participate.</div>
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<br /></div>
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FIRST timers (MALES): PLEASE make sure you try ASAP. From 19th morning 10 am. There is NO prediction when the registrations may close.</div>
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<br /></div>
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First time - female participants: No worries, there is always a Women quota and everyone gets through that.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Those who have participated anytime in the last 2 years:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Be ready with:</div>
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<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Name</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Date of Birth</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Address</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Contact Number</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Email</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Emergency Contact number + Details</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Govt. recognized ID proof : PAN card, Driving License, Passport etc. SCANNED and less than 100 kb in size</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Your passport photo : again scanned & less than 100 kb in size</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Your last year's TIMING certificate : available on their website to download. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">Payment via Credit card, debit card or netbanking. (They have been steadily hiking up their charges - it was a 954 Rs. last year)</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">That's all I can recollect from last year's experience. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">I will surely be registering on Friday morning. If any updates I shall definitely post here.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">ALL THE BEST !</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;">& let me know if you decide to run.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-46115844732871955092013-05-09T13:47:00.001+05:302013-05-09T13:47:04.980+05:30For the Car Enthusiast ....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Define - Car Enthusiast -<br />
<br />
The guy who kisses his car goodnight everyday,<br />
ensures a thorough 'bath' for all parts<br />
can hear rattles where others can't<br />
cannot go home without taking a 'round' around the car at night<br />
so on and so forth....<br />
<br />
To ensure the 'car' stays at it's best and performs at it's optimum and to decrease the chances of it every failing you....<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Weekly Car Checklist - Compiled
by Dr. Suraj A. Dhirwani<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoTableGrid" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin-left: -8.8pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 766px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 13.35pt; mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;">
<td style="border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t202"
coordsize="21600,21600" o:spt="202" path="m,l,21600r21600,l21600,xe">
<v:stroke joinstyle="miter"/>
<v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect"/>
</v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_s1026" type="#_x0000_t202" style='position:absolute;
left:0;text-align:left;margin-left:37.85pt;margin-top:-25.5pt;width:427.8pt;
height:20.95pt;z-index:251658240;mso-position-horizontal-relative:text;
mso-position-vertical-relative:text' stroked="f">
<v:textbox style='mso-next-textbox:#_x0000_s1026'/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="mso-ignore: vglayout; position: relative; z-index: 251658240;"><span style="height: 32px; left: 0px; left: 50px; position: absolute; top: -34px; width: 575px;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="white" height="32" style="background: white; vertical-align: top;" width="575"><!--[endif]--><!--[if !mso]--><span style="left: 0pt; mso-ignore: vglayout; position: absolute; z-index: 251658240;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><!--[endif]-->
<div class="shape" style="padding: 3.6pt 7.2pt 3.6pt 7.2pt;" v:shape="_x0000_s1026">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Weekly Car Checklist - Compiled by Dr. Suraj A.
Dhirwani<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<!--[if !mso]--></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><!--[endif]--><!--[if !mso & !vml]--> <!--[endif]--><!--[if !vml]--></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Engine oil<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-left: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Every week, open the bonnet of the car, pull out the oil dipstick and
check the engine oil level. It should be at the maximum marking or slightly
below (oil is thicker when the engine is cold). Check the color of the oil.
It should not look dirty or burned. Take two drops on your finger tips and
feel its consistency. It should not feel too sticky or gooey, but should be
fluid and thin. Replace engine oil as per the manufacturers’ recommendations
or sooner<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 14.15pt; mso-yfti-irow: 1;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Coolant
level<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Check the coolant level in your car by opening the top of the
reservoir bottle. When the engine is cold, the reservoir bottle should be
between the minimum and maximum levels in the bottle. If there’s any leakage
in the coolant, you will need to check the rest of cooling system (follow the
hoses) to look for wet patches around the joints or on the engine, indicative
of a leak. If the coolant level is low, top it up with distilled water or
pre-mixed coolant if you have it in stock.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.35pt; mso-yfti-irow: 2;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Windscreen
wash fluid<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Especially in the rainy season, check the level of water in the
windscreen washer reservoir. Top it up with clean water as needed. You can
also add a commercially available “windscreen wash fluid concentrate” that
costs about Rs. 90 to Rs. 150 a bottle to this, which will clean the windscreen
better and remove dirt and grime. Or you could also add a drop of dish-wash
liquid to the container, but keep in mind that some dish-wash fluids are
corrosive, and can affect the washer motor as well as remove polish from the
car’s paint when the water flows on to it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 14.15pt; mso-yfti-irow: 3;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Windscreen
wipers<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Check the condition of the rubber on the windscreen wipers. If it’s
frayed or cut, it is time to replace the wipers. Replacing the wipers in time
can save expensive replacement costs to the windscreen, because damaged wiper
blades can scratch the windscreen. Clean the wiper rubber with a damp soft
cloth or sponge to make sure it’s grit free.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 14.15pt; mso-yfti-irow: 4;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Tyres<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Tyres need the most attention. Individually inspect each tyre for
signs of wear, any new cuts or tears and embedded foreign objects. Remove
pebbles that are stuck in the tyre tread. It would be handy to keep a tyre
pressure gauge and/or a portable air compressor with you. Check the tyre
pressure and ensure it’s at its optimum. The best time to check pressure is
when the tyres are cold as this will give you accurate pressure readings.
Fill air if needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.35pt; mso-yfti-irow: 5;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Lights<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Check all the lights of the car, especially headlights and brake
lights to ensure they are working. Have a helper press the brake pedal (with
ignition on in some cars) to see if the brake lights work. With the ignition
on (but engine not started), shift the gear into reverse and check if the
reverse lamps work. Switch on the hazard lights and check if all indicators
are functioning. Replace any bulbs that have fused as soon as possible.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 14.15pt; mso-yfti-irow: 6;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Battery<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Check the battery terminals for signs of corrosion or residue. Clean
this with warm water and a cloth, but don’t touch it with your bare hands, as
it is acidic and can harm your skin. Once a month, you can also open up each
of the cell caps on the battery and check the level of electrolyte inside the
battery. It should be just above the plates in the battery. Top up with
distilled water as needed. In some batteries you can see the level indication
on the outside through the translucent casing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
If you have a multi-meter handy, you can also check the charging
voltage and standing voltage of the battery. It should read about 12.9 volts
when nothing is switched on, and should not exceed 14.1 volts when the engine
is just started, settling at about 13.6-13.9 volts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 13.35pt; mso-yfti-irow: 7;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Exhaust
pipe<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 13.35pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Especially with a diesel vehicle you can perform visual exhaust
checks. Start the vehicle and let it idle. Observe any smoke emissions from
the exhaust. White smoke or black smoke from the exhaust could mean signs of
trouble, and it’s better to get the car checked by a mechanic as soon as
possible.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 14.15pt; mso-yfti-irow: 8;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->9.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Bodywork<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 14.15pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Check the cars bodywork and paintwork for any scratches or dents that
may have appeared during the week. Especially look around bumpers and toward
the floor of the car. Look at corners of the fenders for any signs of
rusting. If there’s rust, get it attended to immediately. Small scratches in
the paint can be polished out, while larger ones may need touching up.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 63.4pt; mso-yfti-irow: 9; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">
<td style="border-top: none; border: solid black 1.0pt; height: 63.4pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 21.3pt;" valign="top" width="28">
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt 18pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->10.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><o:p> </o:p></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 63.4pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 65.2pt;" valign="top" width="87">
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<b>Interiors<o:p></o:p></b></div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: solid black 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid black 1.0pt; border-top: none; height: 63.4pt; mso-border-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-bottom-themecolor: text1; mso-border-left-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-left-themecolor: text1; mso-border-right-themecolor: text1; mso-border-themecolor: text1; mso-border-top-alt: solid black .5pt; mso-border-top-themecolor: text1; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 487.65pt;" valign="top" width="650">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Check that all the seat belts in the car function properly and are
easy to attach and remove. Check the sliding mechanism on each of the seats
to ensure it locks in properly, as these can be fatal in an accident. Check
all the door locks and ensure they lock and open smoothly without jamming. If
you car has power windows, roll each window down and up fully a couple of
times to ensure they are working fine and there is no obstruction in the
window channels.<o:p></o:p></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-86067308249570589312013-03-26T20:43:00.001+05:302013-03-26T21:12:27.575+05:30Samsung Galaxy Note N7000 JellyBean Upgrade - DIY GUIDE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
Dear Samsung Galaxy Note users,</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
The day we were all eagerly waiting for has finally come.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
From November to January to March - delay after delay.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
But as of 23rd March 2013, Saturday - the JellyBean update is finally available OTA (Over The Air) and via KIES for all Note (N7000) users in India.</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
As usual - good news and bad news!</div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">
Good news 1st - LOADS of goodies.</div>
<div class="gmail_default">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Faster camera</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">new UI</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">New widgets</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">New homescreen</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">New Notification bar - AWESOME</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Multi-window</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">smart stay</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">offline voice</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Google NOW - again nice</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">New notifications - SUPER awesome. Especially Gmail & whatsapp.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Project Butter smoothness</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Loads of new settings and options - must explore completely</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">S Memo - migrating to S Note. Unified app</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Photo notes - super cool idea</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Crazy small but numerous changes.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Better WiFi signal</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">New Keyboard - bye bye SwiftKey</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">BAD news.</span></div>
<div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Battery - STANDY by increased - but active usage decreased.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">If OTA update without format - phone EXTREMELY slow. MUST format and begin with clean slate for optimum performance.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Elaborating on that :</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Essentially - if your Note is already fully loaded - this MAJOR upgrade does not apply as smoothly as it should. And it also re-calibrates the battery.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">What to do: </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">ALL your Contacts - Merge with Google. Contacts > Menu > Merge with Google. So all contacts on the cloud.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Calendar entries - I hope you have been using GooCal & not the phone memory.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Download - SUPER BACKUP app from Play Store - very small.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Backup - APPS</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Backup - Calendar</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Backup - SMS</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Backup - Call logs.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Connect phone to PC via cable.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Open phone memory via default Windows Explorer.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">COPY some important folders onto your PC hardisk</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Application, Android, DCIM, Documents, Downloads, S Memo, SuperBackup, WhatsApp, Videos.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">RE-CHECK - everything backed up?</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Disconnect phone from PC.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Re-check all data on PC harddisk.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Remove MMC (Memory card) from phone</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Menu > Settings > Backup & Reset > Factory Reset phone - including USB storage.</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">* The author takes no guarantee for any other addditional loss of data stored by user in different folders. Kindly mark your folders according to your usage and backup on the PC.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Your phone is BACK to day 1 when you opened it.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Begin - enter Google Account info.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">THAT's it.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Go to software update.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">START update to JellyBean : 474 Mb odd. file.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">While it is downloading - keep phone on charging.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">UNPLUG - only after 100% charged.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Keep on charging and INSTALL the JellyBean update.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">NOW - when the phone starts - for the 1st time after JellyBean update. Battery @ 100%.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Phone blank. Except contacts and email.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">RESTORATION.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Transfer data back from PC to phone.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Install SuperBackup from PlayStore.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Restore everything.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Install whatsapp. It will detect previous backup and RESTORE ALL conversations.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Re-install MOST of the apps. Re-enter MOST of your personalized settings. (Also gets you acquainted to the new UI and the numerous new tweaks).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Enjoy.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Insert Memory card when finally convinced that "Alll izz Well".</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">LAST update for the Note N7000. May get Anroid 4.2.2. (Also JellyBean) - but don't hold your breath.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">This much should suffice for now.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">P.S. - If you have already updated your phone to JB and finding it slow - then only choice - BACK up all data as instructed. Go to a Samsung service center and tell them it's slow. They will FLASH it with JB rom again and you are back on track.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">(Free under warranty, if not 165 Rs. charge)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">P.P.S. - Easter egg. Menu > Settings > About Device. Keep tapping the Android 4.1.2 version number repeatedly. You will get a pic of a nice BIG red jellybean smiling at you.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Touch it - keep it pressed for 5 seconds.... ENJOY what follows next. Feel free to flick around. ;)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Your normal home screen is just 1 BACK tap away.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Disclaimer - Tried both methods on my black Note and on my wife's white Note. Difference is phenomenal! In performance as well as battery life.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">A BIG thanks to Rohan Chheda for helping with this compilation with his valuable inputs!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif;">Enjoy!</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-37489715438485800652012-12-31T14:04:00.003+05:302012-12-31T14:04:47.856+05:30Android - What is it? Beginner's guide of sorts.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><span class="il">Posting an old compilation by me that has done the rounds of quite a few inboxes.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><span class="il"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><span class="il"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><span class="il">Android</span> - is a Mobile Operating System by Google which can be installed on any phone (just like Windows can be installed on any PC).</span></span><br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">So - while the OS remains the same across ALL phones - what matters is</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">1. the Hardware - the company manufacturing the phone (HTC, Samsung, LG, Sony, Motorola, ZTE & what not)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">in which primarily </span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Bluetooth (2.1 or 3.0), WiFi, GPS etc are more or less standard along with a 3.5mm jack & a micro USB port.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">so in addition to that what one must check for is</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">a. Processor - Higher the better. Preferably above 1 Ghz. A 1 Ghz DUAL core processor is MUCH better than a 1.4 Ghz single core processor. Anything below 800 Mhz is useless (to have a 'future' proof phone that lasts more than a year without becoming a pain)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">b. RAM - the inbuilt memory of the phone which directly translates into better multitasking</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">c. presence of a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) - Only phones above 18k usually have this</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">d. Chipset - by Qualcomm, Nvidia, Snapdragon are good.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">e. Screen Size - All kinds of capacitive touchscreens available with <span class="il">Android</span> from 2.3" to 4.5" (when we talk of phones - tablets begin from 7 to 10.1) Some odd phones/tablets like Dell Streak & Samsung Galaxy Note have 5.0" screen & exorbitant price tags.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">f. TYPE of screen: Retina > Super AMOLED > AMOLED > IPS LCD > S-LCD > LCD.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">2. SOFTWARE: Yes, they all have <span class="il">Android</span> - but which VERSION.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">2.2 = Froyo (totally outdated - avoid)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">2.3 = Gingerbread. 2.3.4 & 2.3.5 is the LATEST in Gingerbread. & MUST have if you are buying a NEW phone.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">3.0 is Honeycomb - ONLY for tablets</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">4.0 is IceCream Sandwich (ICS) which is the NEW version launched last month & the UNIFIED version for Tablets & Phones.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Thus - whatever phone you buy. Google provides FREE updates. But the Hardware Manufacturer should have be supported by Google to be able to give you the upgrades.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">For e.g. Entire Samsung Galaxy series, Entire LG Optimus series & Entire Sony Xperia series (only phones launched in 2011) are getting the ICS upgrade by April 2012.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">So you must check about the Upgrade ability of your phone, since you are buying in 2012 & will easily use it for atleast 18 months. & yes - Upgrades matter a LOT.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Also - some phones - even though they do not get the upgrade officially, can be 'rooted' (akin to jailbroken iphones) and can get the unofficial updates, but this voids your warranty - so you can do this after 1 year warranty is over.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">3. Custom Software UI's.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Vanilla stock <span class="il">Android</span> is not present on most phones.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">It is customized by individual hardware manufacturers to make it look better - which results in ofcourse performance & RAM loss.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">HTC - adds 'Sense'</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Samsung adds 'TouchWiz'</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Motorola adds 'MotoBlur'</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">&</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Sony adds its 'Xperia Bravia skin'.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Do not get carried away by fancy terms. Each have their advantages & disadvantages.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">NONE of them are perfect.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">&</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">you can uninstall it & put on a free pack such as Go Launcher.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">APPS - is the crazy 1 million + free downloads which includes all kinds of useful, crucial to insane stuff.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Bigger discussion on that later.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">I shall email a list of MUST HAVE apps later.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">But MAJORITY of Apps are available FREE on the official <span class="il">Android</span> Market (unlike Apple's iTunes store)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">4. GPRS - It is almost essential that to make the best of your <span class="il">Android</span> phone - you should have a GPRS pack on your phone.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">By rule GPRS (regular not 3G) are cheaper on prepaid phones than postpaid.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Vodafone, Tata DoCoMo, Reliance, Airtel, Aircel, Idea all have 98 or 99 Rs per month 1Gb or 1.5Gb plans on prepaid.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">(& believe me we dont even use 250 Mb from that!)</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Postpaid plans differ a lot. Check your own service providers.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Now finally:</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Phones:</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Please go to GSM Arena : <a href="http://gsmarena.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">gsmarena.com</a> for the details of any phones that you want or like.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">We can discuss in detail about it later.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">I am just mentioning FEW Good phones.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Since each 1 will have individual tastes, requirements & budgets.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Some may want a better camera, some may want a better screen.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">PLEASE DO NOT BUY A PHONE without ICS now. IceCreamSandwich (v 4.0.3) is the latest <span class="il">Android</span> OS and is a BIG leap over Gingerbread. (v 2.3.5)</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<ul>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">HTC Desire C (only disadvantage no flash LED) 14.5k</span></li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">Sony Ericsson Xperia Neo V or Mini Pro (both have ICS - slightly old phones - available at 12.5k & 11.3k respectively - battery poor but otherwise decent phones)</span></li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">HTC One V (almost perfect phone at 17k)</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">All the phones you have mentioned run GB and are have some major major flaws.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: medium;">For e.g. Sony U has only 4 Gb memory & no MMC slot - suicidal. Since <span class="il">Android</span> is all about the apps & you will need atleast 1 Gb dedicated to apps only.</span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Sorry if I am forgetting any coz the market is quite volatile & changes a lot.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Further details kindly check on <a href="http://gsmarena.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">gsmarena.com</a></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Whatsapp or sms for any other queries.</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;">Some more of my posts:</span></span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia,serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<h3 style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 20px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px;">
<a href="http://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2011/08/android-33-my-experience-with-android.html" style="background-color: white; color: #20124d; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank"><span class="il" style="color: #222222;">Android</span> : My experience with <span class="il" style="color: #222222;">Android</span></a></h3>
<div style="width: 728px;">
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Part 1: <a href="http://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2011/08/android-23-how-to-buy-android-phone.html" style="color: #20124d; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">http://drsurajdhirwani.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/2011/08/<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">android</span>-<wbr></wbr>23-how-to-buy-<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">android</span>-phone.<wbr></wbr>html</a><br /><br />Part 2: <a href="http://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2011/08/android-23-how-to-buy-android-phone.html" style="color: #20124d; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">http://drsurajdhirwani.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/2011/08/<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">android</span>-<wbr></wbr>23-how-to-buy-<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">android</span>-phone.<wbr></wbr>html</a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Part 3: <a href="http://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2011/08/android-33-my-experience-with-android.html" style="color: #1155cc; line-height: 1.4;" target="_blank">http://drsurajdhirwani.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/2011/08/<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">android</span>-<wbr></wbr>33-my-experience-with-<span class="il" style="color: #222222;">android</span>.<wbr></wbr>html</a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Nokia v/s BB: <a href="http://drsurajdhirwani.blogspot.com/2010/06/nokia-vs-blackberry.html" style="color: #1155cc; line-height: 1.4;" target="_blank">http://drsurajdhirwani.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/2010/06/nokia-vs-<wbr></wbr>blackberry.html</a></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;">One of the BEST posts to begin with Android</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="color: #020c37; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;">http://www.gsmarena.com/set_up_your_android-review-866.php</span></span></div>
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</div>
</div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-53880659224144220462012-12-27T14:06:00.000+05:302012-12-31T14:07:26.131+05:30My Tribute to Sachin Tendulkar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
I left home today with a heavy heart,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Some say it's the beginning of another start,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
But it was the end, end of an era...</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
One of the few I ever idolized,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
One of the few whose every detail I memorized,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Your posters adorned my room,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Your presence on or off field dispersed the gloom,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Sach hai - if Sach'in', Indians WIN.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Immortalized in billions around,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Memories of so many on every ground</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
And yet the day I stepped inside Wankhede,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
The news flashed - Sachin retires from One-Day.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
This day was to come, no doubt,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Looming large was that dark cloud,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
But could not prepare for the feel of that lightning bolt,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
That the bat shall so abruptly go cold,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Leaving behind a void, but full of memories,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Visions of character and rock solid values,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Teaching us to be strong, determined, focused and firm,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
To enjoy the game, in pressure never squirm,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Face the ball, with grace,</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
He will always be the Master Blaster, the ACE!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Sachin - We Love You!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
For EVERYTHING - a Big Thank You!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
But - Sachin Tendulkar</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
This is not done - this is too sudden. Too abrupt. It is not complete.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
50 100s.(1 more needed) and 100 50s. (4 more needed) and this last series.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Your debut was against Pakistan. And it is only fair - that you have 1 last shot.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
A departing vision.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Which we can savour and witness and treasure in our hearts forever.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
COME BACK! Don't go! Not yet - the job is not done.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Just a little more, wee bit more please - some more, I know you still have fun!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Nothing is impossible for you - not this, neither that.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Show us the magic once more, let's see the face of that bat.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px;">
Please! Come back!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-375394466734471990.post-57302669274582980882012-08-10T18:40:00.001+05:302012-08-10T18:40:56.642+05:30Tech Updates - Q2 2012<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Remember the Y2k bug?<br />
Well, apparently the world ends again in 2012.<br />
<br />
If it DOES NOT - and I hope so too :) ....<br />
Then we have a few major tech changes that could really be useful & productive.<br />
(When I say productive, I dismiss a majority of apparently 'big' tech changes in the last couple years which are either unstable builds, ridiculously expensive or not really adding worth or VFM to your arsenal. e.g. 3D tv at Home!<br />
As also the omission of certain basic things e.g. Green & Red buttons, Receive & Reject have disappeared, physical keyboards, bulky laptop adapters etc.)<br />
<br />
I am referring specifically to 2 key players : Google & Microsoft<br />
<br />
Google - has finally hit a very stable, utilitarian build with IceCreamSandwich Android 4.0.x<br />
It is like the XP of Windows. Finally you have all the features it should have always had and does a lot more closer to its potential.<br />
But they also launched JellyBean 4.1.1 sooner than expected and again - most hardware manufacturers - especially LG & Sony are going to play spoilt sport and try to be Steve Jobs and not give software updates to extremely capable hardware.<br />
But, what this did - is push the actual Android v5.0.x (KeyLimePie) a little further away and to come with lots of bang like dual boot OS (chrome & android).<br />
<br />
When it comes to a Mobile OS - Android is really taking them all head on and much ahead of the curve, constantly innovating rather than following - but their desktop OS has not taken off even 1 inch from the ground.<br />
<br />There Microsoft has screwed up with Windows 8.<br />
Anyone familiar with Windows knows that never do 2 consecutive versions turn out to be jaw dropping & trustworthy awesome.<br />
And Win8 is really an unnecessary push in the wrong directions.<br />
Apple has screwed it up for everyone. It has made manufacturers price hardware ridiculously high and made software companies selfish & tyrannical, even more than what they were.<br />
<br />
But Windows Mobile 8 - now that is a different ball game.<br />
Agreed that it is extremely sad & bad that all current Windows Mobile phones will not get updated - blanket rule.<br />
But in the future - unless MS screws up something Win8 sounds VERY promising with SkyDrive, Office 360 and loads of bits learnt from Android (including memory card support etc.)<br />
<br />
So what is the future?<br />
Future is we could be repertorizing cases on our Microsoft Surface tablet with a keyboard and all softwares on that tab while it syncs seamlessly with our central desktop & cellphone.<br />
<br />
Or we could enjoy Google Docs & Drive on our phone cum tablet cum netbook cum PC and also use Evernote to sync it up.<br />
<br />
Or you could just spend 2.5 lakhs & shift completely to the Apple EcoSystem.<br />
<br />
Choose your side ... for there are only few redeemers like BlueStacks. (How I wish they would do the exact opposite of what they have so wonderfully accomplished!!!)<br />
I guess 2 trillion dollar ideas are:<br />
BBM cross platforms & Windows emulator on Android.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2