Looking back, I can hardly believe the path my life has taken. I'm Vikram Sharma, and this is my story.
I started my career with a measly 4,000 rupee stipend, working for a small IT firm in Pune. My boss was a nightmare - constantly yelling at. But I knew I had to endure it to learn and grow. Every night, I'd come home exhausted, yet I'd force myself to study, determined to break free from this cycle.
My hard work paid off when I cracked the CAT exam and got into IIM Ahmedabad. Those two years were transformative. I pushed myself harder than ever before, knowing this was my chance to change my life. After IIM-A, I was fortunate to secure a scholarship for a master's program at Stanford.
Silicon Valley was a different world. I landed a job at Dropbox, climbing the ranks until I was earning 3 crores annually. I had achieved the "American Dream," but something was missing.
I kept hearing about India's potential - the projected economic boom, the technological revolution on the horizon. I realized I wanted to be part of that growth story. Not just as an observer, but as someone who could make a difference.
That's when I made the decision that shocked everyone - I left my job in the US to return to India. I joined the government's intelligence team, working closely with RAW. Here, I'm not just witnessing India's rise.
As a diplomat and intelligence officer, I'm at the forefront of India's global interactions. I'm using my tech background and international experience to strengthen our cybersecurity and diplomatic relations.
But the most exciting part of my journey is just beginning. I'm now working closely with Prime Minister Modi on a groundbreaking project to make India a key player in the global AI revolution. We're developing strategies to harness AI for national development. India is the future guys! India will be next AI Hub facilitating all the AI companies around the world. Let keep chatting in comments
India 🇮🇳 to the world🌎
This is the biggest marketing myth sold after Gandhi and his non violence. The peak of Indian growth is over. It's going to be downhill from now on. Why? The brain drain after 1980.
The post 1990 growth came because the talented people born before 60s who were still in India. The high taxation of the 70/80s and the reservations from the 90s made sure that the talented people leave India. They aren't coming back. The ones who come back have to build things with the semi / untalented/ bookish crowd left behind.
Proof of this is in our three biggest industries - IT, pharma, agri. we call ourselves IT powerhouse, we do not have a decent global product. It's 30+ years now. Our startup are flimsy copy of successful western ideas. The UPS of our tech sector is cheap labour and currency arbitrage. So will there be an Indian behind the advanced AI revolution, probably yes. Will it be from India- most likely NO.
Our pharma strength is mass production of generic drugs that are off patent. Our agriculture -We have the largest arable land, and lowest production. Execpt the commercial agri, we are still using the same practice that was followed 75yrs back albeit with minor machinery improvement.
Our quality of life , lesser said the better. Even today people prefer living in overcrowded cities like Mumbai where one has to travel like cattle in that local train. Inspite of living in sub human conditions people have accepted this as way of life. If Stockholm syndrome needed to be understood,look no further.
With the increase of reservation being imminent, things are not going to improve. One needs to be extraordinary committed to work super hard in a country where just 2% of the people pay income tax and a legal system that discriminates unreasonably.
Am not being unnecessarily negative, but a certain level of truth is important. Am too old to fall for this marketing Jingoism.
First step of solving a problem is accepting there is one. We have not reached the first step... Yet.
While I understand your concerns about India's development challenges, I respectfully disagree with the overly pessimistic view you've presented. Let me address some of your points:
Brain Drain and Return Migration: While brain drain has been a concern, India has also experienced significant "brain circulation" in recent years. Many talented professionals are returning to India, bringing valuable skills and experience. The Indian diaspora has played a crucial role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in India.
IT Industry: India's IT sector has evolved beyond just cheap labor and outsourcing. Indian companies are increasingly developing innovative products and solutions. Companies like Zoho, Freshworks, and Postman have created globally competitive products. The UPI payment system is a world-leading innovation developed in India.
Pharma Sector: While generic drugs are a strength, Indian pharmaceutical companies are increasingly investing in R&D and developing novel drugs. India's vaccine manufacturing capabilities, showcased during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrate the sector's advanced capabilities.
Agriculture: India has made significant strides in agricultural productivity since independence. The country has achieved food security and become a net exporter of many agricultural products. Innovations in areas like micro-irrigation and climate-resilient crops are ongoing.
Quality of Life: While challenges remain, India has made substantial progress in reducing poverty, improving healthcare access, and expanding education. Urban infrastructure is being upgraded through initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission.
Reservations and Taxation: These policies aim to address historical inequalities and broaden the tax base. While implementation challenges exist, they are part of India's efforts to create a more inclusive society and economy.
Innovation and Startups: India's startup ecosystem is thriving, with many companies developing innovative solutions for Indian and global markets. While some may be inspired by Western ideas, many are creating unique solutions for local challenges.
It's important to acknowledge challenges, but it's equally crucial to recognize progress and potential. India's journey of development is ongoing, and with continued focus on education, innovation, and inclusive growth, the country has the potential to overcome its challenges and achieve sustainable development.
Slightly off the topic: since you are working with PM Modi, would love to know your perspective on how he is in person? (Since this is an anonymous social media, it would be great if you share your unfiltered version and not the diplomat one 😅)
IT> IIM A > Stanford > Dropbox > Sillicon Valley and finally to INDIA in RAW Salute to you man... Such a diverse and impressive background Do you feel like going for onfield operations like Secret mission or something like that , did you get the chance , if not then you want to go atleast once ?
@IamBiztech mainly working in cyber security, for any on ground operations we take help of local police
What made you choose RAW , i mean after returning from USA, you could also build something of your own ,may be a SaaS product or any AI one , though it's a great opportunity
Currently working as a senior software engineer @msft, living in Tier 1 city, working remotely and earning enough to lead a decent life in India.
I’m 28 and have lived and worked all my life in India.
I used to believe that India is on...
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Question came up because it’s Independence Day 🇮🇳 A lot of us have had the privilege to be able to go abroad, but ended up choosing not to.
For me, it was just believing there’s enough growth here in the coming few decades + friend...
For me it was the army and followed by my corporate job. I never felt like leaving the country. It’s always better to...
Also really wanted to try this Uber cool carousel images features we’ve added ❤️
