Singapore’s first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew once told the island-nation’s Parliament, “If you have a political system that does not attract the best into government, then you are going to get second-rate people running the country, and you will get second-rate results.” Our country faces the same challenge as the 80th year of Independence approaches. We will have to work towards conserving and promoting our talent. Our growth, social progress and security depend on it.

The exodus of more than 100 scientists from Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) highlighted an ominous reality. Unfortunately, Isro isn’t alone. The Army, defence research organisations, IITs, and IIMs, too, see serious attrition. Barring the civil services, there’s a dearth of talent everywhere else. Why?

Two reasons compel professionals to leave government employment. The private sector offers significantly higher salaries, which are linked to business growth. And increasingly, professionals are also offered long-term contracts, ensuring stable employment. On the other hand, the government sector regulations on retirement and benefits remind you of the colonial times. Adding insult to injury, red-tapism remains commonplace.

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