Agriculture as a career avenue

Looking for a Career Option in the Field of Agriculture ? This section features Agriculture as a career option, elaborated with reference to the job profile, personality traits required, the courses and training
involved, premier institutions and future prospects.


Agriculture is the mainstay of our economy. It provides food to our millions and raw materials for our industries. India also has enormous potential as an exporter of agricultural commodities. The variety of climatic types and natural conditions offer a conducive environment for the cultivation of a large variety of agricultural produce.

Work in agricultural sectors ranges from the totally academic pursuits of research and teaching to inspaction and other supervisory work to commercial activities of establishing farms, plantations, orchards and carrying on exports of produce from them.

Agriculture is no longer practised by rule of thumb, instead it has become highly scientific, sophisticated and mechanised and consequently, very profitable too. Horticulture, dairying and poultry farming are allied agricultural activities that have become economically viable opportunities today.

The impact of agriculture is not only on the production of food grains, vegetables and fruits, but on so many agriculture dependent industries which get its raw material from agriculture sector. A good monsoon would drive the sensex raging as bull, while floods or other such calamities would bring it to a grinding halt.

Nature Of Work

Following are major career areas in the field of agriculture:

* Agricultural Research
* Agri-Business
* Agro Industry
* Agricultural Education
* Agricultural Journalism
* Services in Agriculture
* Banking
* Farming
* Conservation
* Agricultural Engineering
* Management


Personality Traits


Ability to work on one's own as well as part of a team, good health, a strong back for frequent bending, indifference to unpleasant weather conditions, sometimes to dirty work, practical ability, good powers of observation to detect early signs of disease in plants, animals and poultry, ability to deal with the unexpected calamity and interest in scientific developments.

Advisory or supervisory work requires, in addition, ability to get on well with people, as also tact and diplomacy. Teaching requires the ability to communicate and the interest in doing so, ability to provide practical and factual information in simple language, patience and ability to infuse enthusiasm for learning in students.

Researchers should have the ability to work for long periods with intense concentration, a keen analytical mind, and a strong scientific bent.


Courses/Training


Basic training in agriculture is offered as a Bachelor's degree course of three to four years duration at all the agricultural universities in the country. The minimum eligibility required for admission to B.Sc.(Ag.) course is a pass in the plus two or equivalent examination with science or agriculture. Many universities fix a minimum aggregate of 50% marks to be obtained in the qualifying examination.

Admission to the different universities may be based on merit or performance in an entrance examination. Notifications of the courses at various places appear from January onwards, while the sessions usually start off between July and September.

More than 40 colleges offer the B.Sc.(Ag.) course, as also the M.Sc.(Ag.) course. Specialisations in agriculture include agricultural economics, agricultural chemistry, animal husbandary and dairy, horticulture, farming system management and agricultural marketing management. ALso there are around 20 institutions offering BE Agricultural Engineering Courses.


Placements And Prospects


India's typographical diversity, variety of climate and abundant cheap labour give it a natural advantage in agriculture and teh agro-buisness. Its greatest strategic asset is land.

India is among the largest producers of vegetables and fruits in the world and has an equally strong floriculture base. Today India's agriculture has become globalised and the idea of integrating Indian agriculture with the world economy is getting government support. India has enormous potential as an exporter of agricultural commodities ranging from mushrooms to flowers, spices, cereals, oilseeds and vegetables.

The spurt in government support for export of agri-products has evoked considerable interest among the large business houses which have worked out agreements for technology transfer, marketing tie-ups, and management and trading contacts with leading foreign counterparts.

Horticulture with its offshoot floriculture has become a focus of export activity. India's exports of roses, carnations, gladioli, chrysanthemums, jasmine and other tropical plants and flowers are touching new heights.

In the field of fruits and vegetables too, India has tremendous export potential. With the commercialisation of agricultre and horticulture there are varied opportunities for salaried jobs as well as entrepreneurship. While salaried jobs with various government and private concerns provide a regular income, entrepreneurship can generate handsome profits.

Landscapers and horticulturists are hired by hotels, health farms, and holiday resorts to beautify their surroundings. Florists and nursuries are doing lucrative business especially in the metropolitan cities. Suburban farmhouses have become important suppliers for the domestic market.

Research openings are also increasing as research institutions gear up to accept the challenge of the export market with the combined support of the government and the corporate sector. Agricultural Research Service/National Eligibility Test Examination is conducted by the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board or ASRB for filling up vacancies of Scientists of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Institutes.

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Merchant Navy as a career option

Looking for a Career Option in the Field of Merchant Navy ? This section features Merchant Navy as a career option, elaborated with reference to the job profile, personality traits required, the courses and training involved, premier institutions and future prospects.

The Merchant Navy is a non-combatant commercial fleet, which deals with transporting cargo and occasionally, passengers, by sea. Its fleet is therefore composed of passenger vessels, cargo liners, tankers, carriers, as well as other special types of vehicles. A career in this field is full of adventure and long voyages to exotic places. Above all this, the excellent pay and promising promotional opportunities make the career lucrative and exciting in spite of all the hard work life and long absence from family and home.

The Merchant Navy is composed of vessels(ships)which carry cargo(called bulk carriers) or oil(called tankers) or passanger(called liners).These ships may belong to Indian or foreign Shipping companies.Merchant navy career options mainly includes the navigating officers, radio officers and marine engineers.

In Merchant Navy, major tasks performed are in three basic areas of a ship. The Deck, the Engine and the Service Department. There are thus, many career options that are available for any youngster who has dreams to join the merchant navy. The deck officers include the captain, chief officer, second officer, third officer and other junior officers. The engine department consists of the chief engineer, radio officer, electrical officer and junior engineers. The service department manages the kitchen, laundry, medical and other services. Jobs are available with shipping companies in India and other countries.


Personality Traits


Merchant Navy should have ability to work as one of a team, self-confidence, love for adventure tough physical constitution, optimistic outlook, capacity for hard work, love for travelling, adaptability and a sporting spirit.


Courses/Training


The two major streams in Merchant Navy India are : Navigating Officers and Marine Engineers.

Navigating Officers have to undergo three-year training course in the therotical and practical aspect of nautical science.This trainig imparted in the trainig ship(TS)Chanakya,Mumbai.At the end of three-year course the cadets are awarded by the B.SC.Nautical Science by the university of Mumbai.After successful complition of this cadet officers have to complete one year in the deck department before being able for thesecond mates certificate of competency.During this period a nominal stipend is paid to them. The Marine Engineering Research Institute(MERI)Kolkata, formerly known as the Directorate of Marine Engineering Training(DMET), imparts training in marine engineering.Admission to most institutions is on the basis of written tests and interviews.Medical standards are uniformly imposed.


Placements And Prospects


Merchant Navy is the backbone of international trade, carrying cargo across the globe. Without the merchant navy, much of the import-export business would grind to a halt. Therefore trained personnel is required for various departments of the ship and this widens the scope for employment in this field.
In the Merchant navy career the offered jobs in the following major areas :

* By various shipping companies in the government and private sector.
* Foreign shipping companies also offer good job prospects.

The Different Career options:

1. Deck Department :

The Deck Officers: Deck officer or navigation officer as the name suggests is in charge of the navigation of the ship. That particular department is called Deck department. The captain or the master of the ship is in charge of the ship. He is not only responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel but also for the discipline on the ship and safety of passengers, crew and the cargo. He must ensure the observance of national and international codes of conduct guiding sea transportation. The captain of the ship is further assisted by first mate, second mate and third mates. The First Mate / Chief officer is the right-hand man to the Captain; the second in-command. He overseers all the cargo planning, assists during navigation, allocates duties and work for the maintenance and upkeep of the ship to the Deck Cadets and deck crew, ensures that discipline and order are maintained. The Second Mate / Second officer, assistant to the First Mate is in-charge of checking all mails and keeping the navigational equipment and charts in good condition and also assists in navigational watches at sea and cargo watches at port. The Third Mate / Third officer is responsible for keeping safety equipments -the lifeboats, firefighting and signaling equipment in top condition; acts in the capacity of signal officer and assists with cargo work. The deck department also has other staff with specific duties called 'ratings'. They act as look outs and helmsmen, assist with the securing of the ship as it docks at ports and help clean tanks and holds before the cargo is placed in them.

2. Engine Department :

Marine Engineers: Marine Engineers have the complete responsibility of the ship's engine room. The main personnel in this department is the Ship engineer/chief engineer who ensures safe and economic running of all engines, boilers, electrical, refrigerating and sanitary equipment, deck machinery and steam connections aboard the ship. He supervises the work of the engine-room crew and is assisted in his duties by the Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Engineers and other junior personnel.

Second engineer looks after the day to day work in the engine room. Third engineer is in charge of the main engine, spare parts for the main engine, all purifiers, boilers, compressors etc. Fourth and fifth engineers are in charge of the numerous generators onboard ship as well as certain small pumps. Besides the officers of the navigation and engineering teams most ships have a Radio Officer and an Electrical officer. The Radio Officer is in charge of the radio room and handles the operation of the wireless and transmitting of signals. Electrical Officer is responsible for the functioning and handling of all electrical equipment onboard the vessel. There is another one named seaconny, who ensures that the ship is on course and that the gangway at port is well-guarded.

3. Service Department :

The work undertaken here revolves around the living and catering services for all the crew on board. A chief steward heads a large team of stewards, bakers, messmen etc. Apart from this, the department also has other services such as the services of Divers for underwater examination of the heel of the ship, propellers, pipes etc. Light Keepers, who operate light house signaling equipment to guide incoming and passing ships, and Nautical surveyors, who prepare charts of particular regions of the seas, with regard to topography and conditions of the sea.

Ministry of Surface Transport, Government of India, takes care of the training needs and conducts competency exam through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS). The career in Merchant navy offers bright prospects to navigating officers and marine engineers.Prospects of promotions are directly linked to passing of requisite competency exams conducted by Ministry of Surface Transport through the DGS.The career in Merchant Navy thus, offers high salaries, thrill, challenge and advanture-all in one package.

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Pharmacy as a Career Avenue in India

Looking for a Career Option as pharmacists ? This section features Pharmacy as a career option, elaborated with reference to the job profile, personality traits required, the courses and training involved, premier institutions and future prospects.

Overview

In our day-to-day life pharmacists play an important role, as they are very much into research and manufacture of drugs. As a pharmacist.Thus, pharmacy is closely associated with scientific study.

Pharmacy as a career option has always been in demand. India being a huge nation of about a billion populations, diseases both minor and major has been a curse upon the weak and the poor. In the previous centuries and almost till the middle of the 20th century killer diseases such as acute respiratory infections, diarrhoea, depression, tuberculosis, measles, anaemia etc have been affecting thousands every year. With the advancements in medical science most of these diseases have been brought under control, with the help of high powerful antibiotics and other life saving drugs. This is where pharmacy steps in to fill the void.

Pharmacists study the chemistry of drugs, their origin, procedures for drug development, their preparation, dispensing, their effects and eventual use for prevention and treatment of disease. The complexity of drug therapy and the dangers of drug abuse has brought into focus the need of pharmacists' special skills to maintain a rational approach in the realm of drug treatments.


Personality Traits


Pharmacists must have a scientific bent of mind and should have interest in medicine. The academic acumen of pharmacists can range from average to superior. Pharmacists in research and industries should have excellent academic potential. An ability to work methodically, carefully and accurately is needed for work in hospitals, stores, laboratories and shop floors. Sympathetic attitude, caring mannerisms and a friendly disposition are required for dealing with patients.

Excellent communication skills are required by pharmacists engaged in marketing and in the production units of industries. Pharmacists in management positions must have effective management skills. In the retail sector, additional skills in merchandising, selling and financial management are required.

Pharmacists work in research, processing and manufacture of drugs. Biotechnological research has added a dynamic potential to the work of pharmacists. The investment in research and development is envisaged to expand the sphere of business activity, both in the country and abroad. Multinational joint venture partnerships have given a thrust to this growth, which has targeted business of almost 40,000 crores, approximately 3.8% of the market share by the turn of the century.


Courses/Training


After Class XII (PCM/B), the study of pharmacy is at the following levels – Diploma courses are of 2 years' duration, degree courses of 4 years' duration.

1. After graduate degree in pharmacy, M Pharma course of 2 years' duration can b undertaken.
2. Graduates in pharmacy can opt to do postgraduate study in biotechnology, particularly if they aspire to become research scientists.
3. Diploma holders can find work work as technicians.
4. Graduate pharmacists can opt for retail and hospital jobs.
5. Postgraduates and doctorates are selected for research, production, quality control and management positions.

Those with B. Pharm and above can work in production section in pharmaceutical companies, product marketing, quality control, research, etc. They are also employed by large hospitals and research centres. There is a demand for pharmacists in western countries also, and many Indians have fared well in this field abroad.

Placements And Prospects


Those opting for D. Pharm. are employed in the above organizations at a lower level, and they also find vast avenues of employment in pharmacies and medical shops, for whom it is compulsory by law to employ a pharmacist.

Pharmacists work in four areas:

1. Hospital pharmacist – The tasks:Procure, stock, prepare and dispense medicines, drugs and other medical accessories. Undertake responsibility for stock control, storage, placing orders, labelling and financial budgeting and account-keeping for the dispensary. The pharmacists are expected to meet patients, doctors and nurses to discuss the supply of medicines and the appropriate form of drugs for administration.

2. Retail pharmacists – The tasks:In medical retail stores, the pharmacist prepares and dispenses drugs on prescription to the general consumer With the growing availability of pre-packaged doses, the pharmacist monitors the drug sale on the basis of prescriptions and dosages, and gives over the counter advice on how to use prescribed drugs

In the retail sector, pharmacists run chemist's shops As medical representatives, they inform and educate the medical practitioners of the potential uses of the drug or health product and its administration along with side effects or precautions for its use. The job entails regular visits to medical practitioners, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, health centres. There is usually a lot of touring to be done.

3. Industrial pharmacists – While most firms are involved in the production of preformulated preparations, a growing number of firms are developing new formulations through autonomous research work. Industrial pharmacists carry out clinical trials, where drugs are tested for safety and effectiveness work in research and development to develop new formulations the production job entails management and supervision of the production process, packaging, storage and delivery work in marketing, sales and quality control.

4. Research pharmacists - Research pharmacists are engaged in research activities in pharmaceutical firms, research organisations and laboratories.


For Diploma in Pharmacy

1. As a Pharmacist in Govt/Semi Govt/Private Hospitals.
2. They can start their own Medical Store.


For Bachelor in Pharmacy

1. As a Medical representative or a medical detailing man.
2. Marketing Managers or a Sales Manager.
3. Drug Inspectors.
4. Drug Controllers.
5. Graduate Pharmacist
6. Chief Pharmacist.
7. As Lecturers for D.Pharm and B.Pharm Colleges etc.

For Masters in Pharmacy:

1. As Lecturers for B.Pharm Colleges.
2. Basic degree for Ph.D.,
3. Research Assistant or Research Associate etc.

Pharmacy teachers with B.Pharma having put in 5 years of minimum teaching experience in any institution approved by AICTE are also eligible for M.Pharma course.

The prospects-

Registered pharmacists work in health centres, hospitals and medical dispensing stores, in pharmaceutical industry, in the manufacturing, analytical and research and development divisions. They also work in drug control administration as Drug Inspector, Analytical Chemist, in the Customs office experts on drugs and pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Supplies and Rehabilitation as Assistant Director of Supplies, medical representatives and executives in pharmaceutical sale divisions.

A number of multinational companies like Hoechst, E Merck and Smith Kline Beecham are collaborating with leading Indian companies as well as government labs, thus offering many job options for qualified professionals. Most large pharmaceutical firms have research divisions requiring skilled manpower. Fresh postgraduates and Ph Ds are recruited as analytical research scientists/associates or as product development research associates.

The Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) Lucknow; National Chemical Laboratory, Pune; the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad also employ researchers.

Drug and pharmaceutical firms employ graduates, postgraduates and doctorates with a background in pharmaceuticals as management trainees for their production units, operations, as well as for quality control and quality certification. With adequate experience, these people rise to senior management positions. More than 20,000 industries manufacturing drugs and pharmaceuticals exist in India, employing almost 1.5 million people.

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Radio Jockey As a Career Avenue

Education in India : Radio Jockey

Looking for a Career Option as a radio jockey? This section features radio jockey as a career option, elaborated with reference to the job profile, personality traits required, the courses and training involved, premier institutions and future prospects.

The popularity of radio is suffering badly because of internet and television, but FM radio on the private channels gives new life to the radio. Radio jockey is very challenging, promising, and exciting option for those having favor of music. In this occupation, someone can be identified by their voice. The job of Radio Jockeys (RJ) is to anchor music related programs on the radio. RJ entertains audience by playing songs and conveying messages in very effective and sophisticated way. They play requests from guests, listeners, arrange/manage contests and gives information related to music, traffic or weather. Presence of mind and hard work is necessary for this occupation. Youngsters are mostly recommended for this post because they have new ideas and concepts regarding the shows. Each RJ has the friendly, warm, dynamic, and spontaneous and must have good communication. Every RJ has their own style to communicate with audience.


Personality Traits


RJ should be diplomatic because they have to speak with different types of people ond on different subjects. They must keep down-to-earth nature and good attitude so that listeners contentedly calls and speaks without any botheration.


Institutions


Any formal training is not necessary for making the radio jockey.

Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai
Academy of Radio Management, Delhi
Take One Academy of Broadcasting, Chandigarh

Placements And Prospects


Radio Jockey is having diversifying nature depends on the subject of the programs. Their job is nor regular. They may be called at any time for hosting or anchoring any show. The job of RJ includes writing scripts for show, presenting show, and select proper music suitable to that show. RJ becomes successful depending on shows presented by him and also depends on the listeners of the show. The speech should original, effective and interesting to the listeners. Radio jockey should write a script for the program and should have knowledge of old and latest movie and the songs. Radio jockey familiar with the computers and sound equipments.

Scope Abroad:

The government has allowed 20% Foreign Direct Investment in the broadcast media. This has cleared the road for big foreign players of the media business. Consequently, opportunities for Radio Jockeys abroad has increased. But, a good grip over the foreign language and an understanding of accents are very important if you aim to be a RJ outside India.

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Civil Services as a Career Avenue in India

Civil Services
Looking for a Career Option in the Field of Civil Services ? This section features Civil Services as a career option, elaborated with reference to the job profile, personality traits required, the courses and training involved, premier institutions and future prospects.


The Civil Services are among India's largest employers. They offer opportunities to graduates from all career fields and disciplines. The Civil Services have always conjured up visions of fantasy and glory for many a youth and numerous parents who keeping entertaining ambitions and dreams of their children blossoming into I.A.S and I.P.S. officers. The Civil Services considered as one of the premier services, offer an attractive and challenging career to the ambitious, the aspiring and the talented, with a wide variety of jobs having relatively greater sphere of authority and power than any other services in India.

Higher Civil Services under the Central Government are classified into All India services and Central Services. The All India Services comprise the Indian Administrative Service, the Indian Police service and the Indian Forest service. These Services are named so because they are common to both central as well as the state Governments. The Central Services constitute those services which work for the Central Government and comprise services like the Indian foreign Service, Indian Revenue Service, Indian Customs & central Excise Service, Indian Railway services, Indian postal Service, Indian Information Service etc.


Personality Traits


Intellectual capability, mental alertness, capacity to grasp all the issues involved in a problem, the ability to weigh up facts, and conflicting opinions and advice, clear and logical exposition, balance of judgment, variety and depth of interest, ability for social cohesion, ability to hold and delegate authority, the art of inspiring loyalty and stimulating and channelising enthusiasm, tact for dealing with politicians, staff and outside enthusiasm, tact for dealing with politicians, staff and outside parties, intellectual and moral integrity and enjoyment of responsibility help in garnering success in this profession.


Modes Of Entry


The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) carries out the process of selection for entry into the civil services. The actual procedure is set in motion six months prior to the conducting of the preliminary examination, when the date and syllabus of the examination process are announced in the Employment News Weekly/Rozgar Samachar.

Graduates between 21 and 30 years of age are allowed to make a maximum of four attempts at the civil service examination. The UPSC grants relaxation in age and number of attempts to candidates belonging to SC/ST (Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes) if they are otherwise eligible. OBC candidates are allowed a maximum of seven attempts while there is no restriction on the number of attempts for SC/ST candidates.

The preliminary examination is an objective type with multiple choice questions in 2 papers - general studies and an optional subject. The preliminary is meant to serve as a screening test and about 12 to 13 times the total approx. number of vacancies to be filled in the year are declared qualified to be admitted to the main examination. The main examination consists of a written examination and an interview test.

Complete details of the examination are available in the section of The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).


Placements And Prospects


Through the civil services examination the UPSC recruits personnel to services such as IAS, IPS, IFS and the many services falling under Central Allied group "A" and group "B". Candidates are allotted to various sections keeping in view their rank in the examination and the preferences expressed by them.

Initially after the appointment, candidates are sent for a certain period for training to the academic staff colleges linked to their allotted service. Thereafter they are placed in the various departments in the actual work environment.

The civil services constitute the mainframe of our nation and offer prestige and executive power. Promotions are time-bound with automatic increase in privileges. Service facilities are good and there are very good social welfare facilities extended to the civil servant after retirement from services.

In the civil service the pay structure is good and there is job security. Civil servants are entitled to subsidized accommodation, telephone and transport facilities. They enjoy unparalleled social status.


For more information go to
www.upsc.gov.in

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Environmental Science & Engineering career courses in India

Introduction:
Environmental science and engineering is becoming an interesting career option because of the increase in consciousness about the environment. Environmental scientists and engineers are now playing the important role of the guardians of the environment. Coupled with tremendous economic development India has also witnessed a high degree of environmental pollution. The onus now lies on the environmental engineers and scientists to make India tread the path of sustainable development.


Qualifications:
Undergraduate and Post-graduate courses both in environmental science and environmental engineering are offered by several institutes across the country. Courses on Environmental Science and Engineering, their duration and qualifications required are –


B.S.C (environmental science), Duration: 3 years, Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Biology as their subjects

M.S.C(Environmental Science), Duration: 2 years, Eligibility: B.S.C in environmental science, zoology, botany, physics or chemistry.

PG Diploma courses in Environment Management and Environmental Science

B.E in Environmental Engineering, Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics as their subjects.

M.Tech in Environmental Science & Engineering, Duration: 2 years, Eligibility: B.E / B.Tech. In environmental/civil engineering

M.Tech in Energy & Environment Management, Duration: 2 years, Eligibility: B.E / B.Tech. In environmental/civil engineering

M.Tech (Environmental Engineering), Duration: 2 years, Eligibility: B.E / B.Tech. In environmental/civil engineering .

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Environmental Science Careers in India

Environmental Science: The Profession
The efforts towards clean air, water protection, noise abatement, waste management, pollution control and the like requires new goods and services, creating many more fresh jobs. Environmental science as a profession promises tremendous employment opportunities. Environmental science is a composite of both natural and social sciences. Resource management and resource technology are also significant features of environmental science. Opportunities in this field are immernse. Not only for environmental scientists but also for environmental engineers, environmental biologists, environmental modellers and envionmental journalists.

Environmental Science: Areas of Work
Environmental science is a broad term, incorporating various different activites. In can be applied in the following fields:

* Industry
* Research and Development
* Social Development
* Environmental Journalism
* Environmental Modelling

Work of Environmental Scientist
An environmental scientist's job is to utilize the knowledge of various principles and concepts of science and engineering disciplines, in order to protect and preserve the environment. Environmental scientists also conduct research studies in order to develop theories or methods of abating and controlling the sources of envionmental pollution.

So the major tasks performed by environmental scientists consists mainly of proactive and research-oriented work. It may involves tasks like:

* Administrative Tasks
* Advisory Tasks
* Protective Tasks

Eligibility for Environmental Science
Environmental science is generally taugh as an MSc. programme and therefore a bachelor's degree in any discipline of science is an essentail prerequisite. However there are few institutions which offer envionmental subjects at the BSc. level.


Job Prospects in Environmental Science
Career opportunities in this field are immense today. The horizons in this field are widening in India as well as abroad.

Waste treatment industries, refineries, distilleries, mines, fertilizer plants, food processing industries and textile mills employ environmental scientists. NGOs are growing, both in numbers and in strength. there is greate scope in these organizations. The growing concern over environmental protection has also made the industry more concious or ensuring that industrial waste and other industrial materials are not hazardous to the environment, hence creating more jobs environtal science.

Remuneration
Depending on the qualification and the area of work, levels of remuneration also varies. In NGSs and other social organizations, the starting salary vary between Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 per month. In private industries, the starting salaries range from Rs. 11,000 to Rs 16,000 per month. Salaries are similar in research field.

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Career in Stockbroking

Overview
Stock exchanges are like market places where stockbrokers buy and sell securities for individuals or institutions. Stock markets have gone through tremendous improvements to match the expectations of the growing industry. The introduction of norms for greater transparency in operations and the international trading and investment exposure, as well as support of professional analysis have brought about tremendous improvements in this sector.

As the opportunities are many with a wide choice of organisations and jobs to choose from, professionals in this sector can hope for a good future. Indian stock exchanges, today, are dealing with big numbers and big buyers. The capital markets are undergoing transformation. Today's progressive brokers deal in billions rather than in millions. Brokers now have all their operations computerized and employ qualified industry specialists to advise on buying and selling of stocks.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has been empowered by an Act of Parliament to protect the rights of investors and ensure the promotion and regulation of the capital markets. It is the regulatory body in charge of the country's capital markets.


Personality Traits


Brokers or stock market professionals are now either playing host to foreign investment bankers, who are looking for opportunities on the Indian stock market, or visiting fund managers abroad seeking investment here.

Stock market houses are redefining themselves and the business of stock broking is highly visible today. Communication links between the dealing room and the trading ring are being improved.

The National Stock Exchange or NSE (inaugurated on 23 July 1994) provides nationwide facilities with access to investors all over the country. The automated, screen-based trading system using state-of-the-art technology makes market operations transparent. Stock broking business requires the services of specialists (in varied fields) - economists, accountants, finance managers, financial analysts, capital market specialists, and investments and financial planners.


Courses/Training


1. Postgraduate courses in economics and commerce are available in most universities in the country.
2. Finance managers may be MBAs with specialization in finance from the reputed institutes of management or from the departments of business administration of the major universities.
3. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), New Delhi, conducts the chartered accountancy course for the plus two level through the foundation course and directly for graduates.



Placements And Prospects


Placements in Stockbroking:

1. Stock market transactions are carried out on computerised systems and deals are recorded for inspection at any time.
2. Stock brokers independently may deal with the following:
3. Operations for private clients and institutional clients.
4. Some brokers act only as dealers (client investment managers) while others are principally advisors (equity sales advisors).
5. Some brokers provide services for portfolio management and constantly review investments in the light of trends and developments in the market.
6. Financial services brokers specialise in bond issues, handling institutional accounts or mutual funds.
7. In large firms, stock brokers work in the following areas:
8. Deal with, and advise, smaller firms
9. Securities brokers work on behalf of firms with private clients to understand the investment plans and objectives of the client i.e expectation for returns and interest in risk taking. They are representatives of brokerage firms and execute orders to buy and sell securities. They are equipped with both knowledge and experience to give advice on the sale and purchase of scrips and management of financial investments.
10. Advise for investments.
11. Carry out market transactions.
12. The financial services in firms concerns pre-sales, sales and after sales services. These firms have departments to manage the sales and trading for the owners of securities, investment banking for firms and the government for the issue of securities, and capital markets which form an essential arm for trading activities.
13. As Securities Analysts – Brokers may be required to advise on floatations of shares in conjunction with the merchant banks. They are expected to have knowledge of the market to be able to anticipate certain trends and make predictions.
14. As Investment analysts – The Investment Analysts provide accurate information to investors and fund managers. There are two major roles:

Prospects:

Prospects for the stock broking business are bright and for those who are qualified to handle this business and have the necessary personality traits to cope with it, the openings are many. Foreign firms are waiting in the wings to secure government clearance for participating in the stock exchanges. Indian brokers will, therefore, have to come to terms with real competition and ensure international standards of services to the investor.

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Marine Engineering

4-year degree course module recognizes the wisdom in what was stated by the great philosopher hundreds of years ago! While preparing the students for Marine Industry through extensively covered theoretical classes, practical engineering education at the in-campus workshop, out-of-campus Shipyard & Shipboard training, the curriculum ensures sufficient exposure to Electronic, Computer & Information technologies. There are total 8 semesters.
The course details are as follows:-
The subjects include
- English
- Applied Mathematics
- Physics and Electronics
- Computer Science
- Marine Management.

Topics such as Ship Operation Technology and other applied subjects (Maritime Commerce, Marine Engineering, Environmental Science, Control Systems etc.) are also focused upon. The training programmes help the candidates to inculcate qualities necessary for the profession, both mental and physical. Practicals that are conducted are in the following subjects - Astronomy, Chart Work, Practical Navigation, Magnetic and Gyro Compasses, Electronic Navigational Aids (Radar, Decca, and Satellite Navigator etc.).

Prizes are given to cadets for Academic Excellence & General Proficiency. Apart from these, there are a number of prizes for Extra Curricular Activities & Sports.


Minimum Requirement for Marine Engineering.
Eligibility
Unmarried (male/female) Indian Citizens. Limited foreign nationals may be admitted with approval of Ministry of Shipping, Govt. of India.

Age
Maximum: 20 years old on 1st October in the year of admission.
SC/ST: relaxable by 5 years

Academic Qualification
As per requirement of IIT-JEE. (Indian Institute of Technology - Joint Entrance Examination)
For more information on this Joint Entrance Examination, you may visit any of the Indian Institute of Technology web sites - Kharagpur, Kanpur, Mumbai or Delhi,

Future Prospects
Shipping Industry Growth
Recent Studies world over, predict a steady growth of International Trade. What this means is, "Shipping" as a mode of international and intercontinental transport system can never go out of fashion - it being the easiest & still the cheapest mode!

Agreeably, advancement in Engineering techniques & technology has had an effect on growth in terms of increase in the number of ships plying the seven seas as compared to the increase in cargo volume movement. However, with advancement in Technology, the demand for Qualified Marine Engineers has increased exponentially. Consequently, students passing out of all the institutes have continued to remain as one of the most sought after with the Ship Owners, globally.

CAREER GROWTH & HIGHER STUDIES
The curriculum is geared to ensure that every student receives sufficient guidance that will help him/her to appear for the MEO-Examinations, under Ministry of Shipping, (MOS) during the Service life. Additionally, we encourage you to visit the relevant page of the D.G.Shipping Website to learn more about the rules pertaining to MANNING OF SHIPS - Certificates of Competency and EXAMINATIONS for Certificates of Competency

Many of Marine Engineers prefer pursuing higher studies than joining the Merchant Navy immediately on graduation. The popular choices remain -

" Business Management Institutions for MBA.
" Universities Overseas for M.S./PhD in Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering & Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering and even Master's Degree in Marine Law.
" Computer Science & Information Technology Institutions for MCA

BEYOND THE MARINE ENGINEERING
Apart from remaining within the Shipping or Related Industry (National & International Shipping Companies, Marine Workshops, Surveying Concerns, Navy, Diesel Engine Manufacturers etc) on shore based jobs, the marine Engineers today are occupying important & key positions in varied & diversified industries - from IT Sector, to Consultancy Organizations such as PriceWaterhouse Coopers & DCL, to Brick & Morter Companies - Power, Steel, Electronics/White Goods, to Service Sector organizations like Hotel Industry etc. A few have also joined the Indian Government Services.

A vast many with entrepreneurship skills, are very successfully running their own business establishments too. Needless to say, the Savings Potential while at the Merchant Navy, has assisted in setting up their own business establishments.

While many Marine Engineers have dedicated their post-Merchant Navy services to Academic Institutions related to Marine Engineering, a number of them also hold enviable & highly respected positions in Technical Schools & Colleges overseas.

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Aeronautical Engineering

Work with one of the most technologically advanced branches of engineering. The aeronautical engineers are concerned with the design and construction, testing and operation as well as maintenance of aircraft and aircraft components.

The main thrust in this area is on design and development, which extends even to space and satellite research. It is an exciting field with scope for growth and job satisfaction. An aeronautical engineer needs to be physically fit and fully dedicated to his work.

Necessary Qualifications

Eligibility: 10 + 2 Science; high percentage of marks in Science subjects and qualifying exam (JEE)
To be an aeronautical engineer one should be a BE/B.Tech. in aeronautics. The Madras Institute of Technology offers a year postgraduate programme in aeronautical engineering for B.Sc. students. One can also study for M.Tech. and Ph.D. in aeronautics from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.

Those who have passed the Associate membership exam conducted by ASI (Aeronautical Society of India), which is at par with a bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering, can also become aeronautical engineers. It is possible to take a degree in electronics or physics to work in this field and leave more options open

Academic Programme

The Bachelor's degree programme stresses the fundamentals of propulsion, electronics, and automatic control guidance, theory of aerodynamics, structural analysis, material science, and fluid dynamics.

Job Opportunities

Work for an aeronautical engineer can be with airlines, particularly the government carriers, Air India, Indian Airlines, Pawan Hans, and aircraft manufacturers, Hindustan Aeronautical Ltd. and other organizations concerned with the aircraft industry.

There is limited scope in this branch of engineering, therefore, a large number take on work in R&D areas in the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Civil Aviation, in defense research laboratories, or civil aviation departments.


INSTITUTES CONDUCTING THE COURSE

* Indian Institute of Technology, Powai, Mumbai 400076 (Maharashtra)
* IIT, Kharagpur 721302 (WB)
* Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai 600036 (Tamil Nadu)
* Madras Institute of Technology, Chennai 600044 (Tamil Nadu)
* Hindustan Inst of Engineering Technology, 40 GST Road, P.O.Box No.1306, St. Thomas Mount, Chennai 600016 (Tamil Nadu)
* Nehru College of Aeronautical and Applied Sciences, Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu)
* School of Aviation Science and Technology, Delhi Flying Club, Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi
* Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh 160011
* IIT, Kanpur 208016
* Indian Institute of Aeronautics, Patna Airport, Patna 800014 (Bihar)
* Institute of Aviation Technology, 1265, Sector 6, Bahadurgarh, Haryana 124507
* VSM Aerospace, Chelekere Village (Near Kammanahalli), Bangalore 560008 (Karnataka)
* Hindustan Electronics Academy, 61, Cambridge Road, P.B.No.806, Ulsoor, Bangalore 560008 (Karnataka)
* Indian Institute of Aeronautical Engineering, 179, Kalidas Road, Dehradun 248001 (Uttaranchal)

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Entrepreneurship Careers in India

Entrepreneurship Careers in India

Entrepreneurship: The Profession
The lack of opportunities in the formal secors has driven many young people to strike our on their own. Many youngsters are leaving their their good paying jobs to establish their own small entrepreneurial ventures. This is the sector which is gworing the fastest today. The big money in the long run and the freedom to choose their own rainbows are, of course, major guiding factors. Today, the scope and variety of self-generated work is unlimited. Home ventures too offer enormous opportunities for the enterprising. The range of options for self generated work in immense and many of these can even be conducted from home.

It can be divided majorly into three activities:

1. Providing service
2. Selling something
3. Manufacturing (making)

Many enterprises combine moer than one activities. Deciding which type of entreprise to choose require a great deal of research, because setting up a business is an uncharted area in the conventional career terms.

Entrepreneurship : Areas of Work
Variety of self-generated work in unlimited.
Providing a service requires the least capital and involves less risk. These services are based on using one's time, skills and possibly any specialized training received. This can cover a large range of activies from freelance writing for magazines and journals to providing beauty care services or providing potted plants for homes or offices. Professionals in law, accountancy, system analysis, or even creative professionals such as copywriters, journalists and so on can be their own bosses while working independently for large organizations.
Selling or Markeing overlaps with both manufacturing and providing services. It could involved making something at home and delivering it to some clients. Or setting up some exibitions for the same. Selling involves more initial organization and business know-how, capital and risk than service venture.
Manufacturing covers anything from making children's clothes to high-tech components for industry. Manufacturing usually requires more skill, capital and risk than service and selling. You may need a physical primise for production.

Work of Entrepreneurs
Most 'service industry entrepreneurs' work from their houses or small offices that they rent. some of them also go in for freelancing and door-to-door services. This is a major growth area. Other ideas that have generated successful enterprise include the marriage planning service, theme parties, converence and exhibition services, travel services, and food catering service. Enterprising entrepreneurs can also start their own chains fo restaurants delivery services. Computers and information technology industry offers good scope for self-employment. Services like coacing services, software development, graphics designing and website development are the main in this field.

Selling/Marketing is quite popular among entrepreneurs. The sales can be provided directly from homes to other official or residencial locations. This may be something like providing complete packed luched from homes to offices.

Entrepreneurs in manufacturing have to setup their own factories and small scale industries. The investment in this secor is far more than others. Industries in manufacturing ranges from cottages and villages industries (handicrafts etc.) to very sophisticated industries, which manufacture computer parts, television and other technical units.

Entry and eligibility
There is no specific entry requirement. Also there is not specific eligibility requirement. But its always better to have some experience in the field in which you are starting up something.

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Actuarial Science (Insurance) As a career avenue in India

Actuarial Science (Insurance) As Career in India



Insurance is understood as a coverage by contract where by one party undertake to indemnify or guarantee another against loss by a specified contingency, the amount for which it is insured. Insurance can therefore cover life, health, goods, equipments, travel or anything of value to the person or organization body. Till very recently, insurance was largely under the government sector. However, now many private multinational firms have come into India with a variety of insurance schemes

The major government companies are Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), General INsurance Corporation (GIC) and Postal Life Insurance. LIC deals with insurance of life while GIC deals with any other type of insurance. In recent years, many private companies including HDFC, ICICI, Kotak Mahindra and Birla sunlife have setup office in India, hence the prospects of getting a good job in insurance compnay has increased a lot.

Main areas of work in insurance career
A person interested in working inthe field of insurance can either work in the capacity of:

* An office in one of the areas of insurance (life, general and postal).
* An agent.
* An insurance surveyor.

The work of an actuary (one who works in insurance field) involves the calculation of insurance risk, premiums and pension programmes. Actuarial science is build on the statistical evaluation of the financila and economic implications of possible congingencies.

In an insurance company persan can take a job in and as:

* Administration - deals with the registry of claims.
* Development - deals with marketing and procurement of business etc.
* Accounts - deals with the management of funds and their disbursement.
* Investment - responsible for the investment of funds of insurance company.

Entry & eligibility for insurance career

* A person who wants to be an actuary has to pass an entrance exam conducted by the Actuarial Society of India.
* However, recruitment to the Postal Life Insurance takes place according to the recruitment rules of the postal department.
* To be an insurance surveyor, a person needs to hold a licence.
* Private insurance firms take in management graduates to work mainly in the areas of marketing and sales.

The eligibility criterion for recruitment to both the LIC and GIC is the same. An AAO (Assistant Administrative Officer (class I officer)) must be a graduate/postgraduate in any subject with minimum of 50 percent marks, from a recognized university. The candidate's age should be between twenty-one and twenty-eight years. AAO's recruitment exam is an all India level exam. To be recruited as a clas II officer, the candidate has to be a graduate in any descipline. Class III and class IV levels are open to graduates and school-leavers.

An insurance surveyor, to be eligible to hold a licence, must fulfil one of the following qualifications:

* Fellowship of associateship through the exam held by the Institute of Insurance Surveyors and Adjusters (IISA), Mumbai.
* Degree or diploma in architecture from a recognized university.
* Fellowship or associateship of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of the Institute of Cost and works Accountants.
* Degree of diploma from a recognized engineering institute.
* Degree or diploma in naval architecture.

Actuarila Science & Insurance Institutions
Actuarial Science is mainly offered as a three year degree course by some universities, or as one of the subjects of a degree programme. There are also short term courses in insurance or actuarial science, ranging from six months to two years. The Insurance Institute of India, Mumbai also grooms insurance personnel for a career in the LIC. The highest qualification for a career in insurance is that of a Fellow of the Institute of Insurance, London. This requries a licentiate in insurance, for which three papers have to be cleared, followed by eight papers for an associateship, and further four papers to qualify for the fellowship. The training imparts skills in the science of assumptions and probabilities, and fine tunes arithmetical and mathematical faculties.

Job Prospects in Insurance Companies in India
There are plenty of jobs in the insurance sector today, in both government and private sectors. In fact, the estimated requirement for trained professionals is expected to be mroe than 30,000 over the next two to threee years. Groth in the insurance profession depends totally on the individual.

Remuneration in Insurance Career
In government sector, the pay scale of the officers in the insurance sector as given by the government of India is in the range of Rs 3000-Rs 8000 for development officers and go upto Rs 14,000-16,000 for zonal managers. Along the basic pay given above, allowances amount is about more than 200 percent of the basic pay. In private sector, starting salaries are in th range of Rs 6000 to Rs 9000 per month, where management graduates can start with Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month.

Colleges offering courses in Insurance Career

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Hotel Management as a Career Avenue

Looking for a Career Option in the Field of Hotel Management ? This section features Hotel Management as a career option, elaborated with reference to the job profile, personality traits required, the courses and training involved, premier institutions and future prospects.

In any country, the hospitality industry is inextricably linked with its overall economic prosperity and resourcefulness. In other words the developmental level of the hospitality industry could well be considered the index of its all round growth. Trade and commerce too would be unable to thrive were there not adequate facilities and provisions for the overseas traders and business people.

Hospitality industry is also directly proportionate to the inbound tourism to any particular country. The various countries of the world like India, China, Mexico and Iraq, that were the seats of ancient civilizations, are till date the most favourite destinations of the tourists from all corners of the globe.

Hence both these industries have vast potentials for developing both tourism and hospitality industries. In this era of increasing globalisation, hospitality industry or hotel management is assuming greater significance and fast evolving as a lucrative career option


Personality Traits


Hotel management demands a friendly, helpful, outgoing personality, ability to take responsibility and to work well with others. Interest in people of all backgrounds, creativity, flair, tact, a methodical approach, organising and administrative ability, a certain amount of manual dexterity and visual imagination, physical stamina and good health to withstand irregular hours of work are equally important traits. A temperament which remains unruffled in inevitable crises, a good memory for faces(as regular gustes appreciate recognition), cosiderable self confidence, an eye for detail, practicality,


Courses/Training


Hotel Management courses are usually of three-year duration leading to the grant of a diploma / degree but some degree courses are also of four years duration.

Hotel Management courses at all institutes offer a blend of therotical and practical training. Students are given hands-on training in running of a hotel so that they can apply their tgeoretical learning to real-life situations and learn how to improve adapt.

Courses in Hotel Management are

* BHM - Bachelor of Hotel Management
* DHM - Diploma in Hotel Management
* BHMCT - Bachelor of Hotel Management and Catering Technology
* DHMCT - Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology
* PGDHM - Post Graduate Diploma in Hotel Management


Eligibility


The individual must be at least a graduate preferably in commerce.


Placements And Prospects


Students graduating from established institutes of hotel management can join the railways, airlines, shipping lines in their catering services, or the defence sector. The industrial canteens absorb some hotel management professionals. A few proceed to pursue postgraduate studies in hotel management and opt for teaching jobs. Hospitals and other institutions also engage hotel management professionals.

The main areas of work in a hotel are as follows

1. General Operations: The main responsibilities of this department include supervision, co-ordination and administration of all other departments as well as overall financial control.

2. Front Office: It is the centre of all activities. Major tasks performed here include: providing information, making room reservations and taking care of check-ins and check-outs, besides the duties performed by the Personnel Department of any company.

3. Sales & Marketing: This department keeps in touch with travel agents and tour operators as well as other potential corporate clients in order to sell hotel facilities. This department also normally handles Advertising and Public Relations.

4. Food & Beverage: This department is the hub of the hotel industry and is responsible for all the food that is prepared and served in the hotel.

5. House Keeping: The main function of the housekeeping department is to make sure that all rooms are kept in order and all the needs of the guests are met.


Remunerations


The emoluments vary between the different organizations which employ them. Minimum monthly emoluments are approximately Rs. 7500-Rs 10000 depending upon factors such as the category of employing hotel, institute from where the student graduated, city of location, etc.

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