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— Reshma Gulati A Since you’ve specifically asked, it may help to keep the following points in mind. While our Constitution confers equal rights and opportunities on women, the Indian Police has been somewhat discriminating against women, denying them equal rights for a long while now. Women are not only discriminated against at the entry level. Even after induction they are assigned “soft” and marginal tasks like receptionists and clerks, escorting women prisoners etc. As elsewhere, even policewomen at times encounter harassment from male colleagues. But that’s an occupational hazard women are learning to counter universally. But all is not bleak. Things are slowly changing. Fortunately, we have a growing tribe of committed women officers redefining the rules and carving out a distinguished niche in this predominantly male bastion. And this is where you must pitch your sights. The good news is that the number of women in the Himachal police force will be increased from the existing 6 per cent to 10 per cent. There is an acute shortage of women police personnel in the force right from the rank of constable to Sub Inspector. In fact, in Hamirpur itself there are only two women police personnel. The newly recruited women in khakee will be given facilities like lodging in the districts of the state. The HP Police Act 2007 now makes it mandatory for the police force to offer community policing and hold regular meetings and women can play a key role in reaching out to the people. So, by all means join the police service. Biochemistry beckons
Q I am doing B. Sc final year. I want to pursue M.Sc in biochemistry. Can you please tell me about the job prospects of biochemistry? — Parminder Kaur A Biochemistry occupies a central place in life sciences as it seeks to explain the chemical processes of living organisms. With its roots in chemistry, mainly organic and physical, it also focuses on the chemical mechanisms of genetic information storage and transmission, and the chemistry of cells, blood, biological systems and products, and life processes such as respiration, digestion and reproduction. Termed as the science of the future, Biochemistry is fast developing into an extremely important subject. Forming the basis of a great deal of research, its study can make for a successful career offering more alternatives than any other stream of science. Its applications are of vital significance to the fields of medicine, diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, microbiology, veterinary, agricultural and dairy sciences. Biochemists study the structure and function of enzymes, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and their metabolic processes, molecular basis of the action of genes, etc. Biochemical engineering harnesses the knowledge of living organisms and systems to create safe and efficient processes. Mainly concerned with biological changes, it is an essential input in the production of pharmaceuticals, foodstuff and waste treatment. There is an increasing demand for biochemists involved in biochemical genetic research not only in India but also abroad, especially for those with a specialisation in cell biology, genetics, proteomics, developmental chemistry, organic and medical chemistry, biochemical methods and research. Openings for biochemists exist in R & D in scientific departments in industry, public sector laboratories, universities and hospitals. While MPhil or PhD is necessary for working as a scientist, you could work as a research assistant straight after MSc in research-oriented organisations like CSIR or ICMR or Indian Institute of Immunology. Defence labs also recruit scientists. You can also choose to teach at the college or university level. For this, you have to qualify the CSIR NET or the state-level SLET on completing your MSc. Biochemists are also employed in the sales and marketing departments of pharmaceutical and related industries. The Civil Services is another option. There are nearly 60 universities that offer MSc US course for English tutors
Q Can you please give me all the details regarding the US Department’s Education Programme for Teachers from India and Pakistan. What is the eligibility criteria? — Jaspinder Singh A If you are currently teaching English in a secondary level school (Classes IX-XII) in Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir, you can apply for the Professional Development Programme sponsored by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. In total, 26 teachers, 13 each from India and neighbouring Pakistan, will get this golden opportunity to learn the best practices of teaching English. If selected, you get to fly down to America to participate in this programme at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). You get to network with secondary English teachers from South Asia and develop leadership and training skills. Once you return to India you get to participate in a four-month distance learning programme and attend two follow-on workshops. To qualify, all you need is minimum three or more years full-time teaching experience. You also need to be a resident of the above mentioned states and hold a bachelor’s and teacher training degree. It goes without saying that your English communication skills must be excellent. Selected candidates will be called for an interview to Delhi to be held on March 28, 2007. The US department will foot the bills for your return economy airfare, lodging and meals and applicable allowances plus medical insurance coverage. For further details contact USEFI at Fulbright House, 12 Hailey Road, New Delhi-110001, or log onto www.fullbright-india.org. The application deadline is March 7, 2007. The writer is a noted career consultant
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Q I am from a small town in Hamirpur and am considering a career in the police. How conducive is the scenario for women? Will I be on a par with my male colleagues?
