One of the unambiguous epithets describing IIT Kharagpur is what is written across its main building - Dedicated to the Service of the Nation. I don't need to name the countless number of alumni of the institute who have done just that. It must be the countless times that we have crossed it while going to our classes that made us choose a life of service.
I chose government service in the defence sector for 10 years. As I prepare to leave the service soon, I find myself invariably trying to find newer avenues to serve the nation; but this time, in the social/ development sector. After years of office and service politics, through which you have to navigate while enabling service to the nation, I have decided a little selfishness in mental health is worth the uncertainty and monthly credits to the account. One thing's sure: I'll be striving for a setup which converts my time for some money but not before I have explored the country that I have been and am serving and not before identifying where an IIT engineer can contribute to the upliftment of the country's people.
Thank you IIT Kharagpur for still inspiring me with your motto.
