Last Sunday I read an article by well known economist Swaminathan Aiyer on this topic- Jugaad refers to inventive spirit and ingenuity of Indians, who have learned to make the most of a resource strapped situation. Be it successful reverse engineering in Punjab, or large scale working around the system by the likes of Dhirubhai Ambani, the underlying pattern is how to make things work, look at possibilities, rather than get bogged down by what is not available.

Think about it, and this is indeed one of India’s greatest assets. Being able to thrive in a resource rich environment is one thing, but building large scale companies and creating successful entrepreneurial ventures when the business climate is not conducive is something.

The important point is however that India and Indians must not lose this spirit as our economy progresses and some of the constraints ease out. Imagine the advantage we would have as a young aspiring nation with this spirit of inventiveness.

Only time will tell how we protect this trait, as a nation.

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