Namita Thapar Responds to Sabeer Bhatia’s View on Engineering Education in India

Namita Thapar, the Executive Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals and a judge on Shark Tank India, offers a different perspective from Hotmail co-founder Sabeer Bhatia regarding India’s engineering education and workplace environment.

During a recent podcast, Bhatia raised concerns over the shortage of hands-on skills and critical thinking among Indian engineers. He noted that a significant portion of engineering graduates in India tend to occupy management positions rather than engaging in product development.

Namita Thapar’s Perspective

In her Instagram Stories, Thapar expressed her views by mentioning her eight-year experience in the US, where she encountered many Indians who had a negative outlook on India. Thapar remarked that Bhatia’s latest comments were somewhat unbalanced, stating that many Indians in the US often criticise the country.

Thapar emphasised the importance of addressing brain drain, calling it a “real concern,” and shifted her focus back to Bhatia, asserting that it is easier for those living abroad to offer advice.

She stressed, “It’s easy to relocate to another country and advise from afar; however, the true impact and challenge is found in staying in one’s own country to promote change!”

Sabeer Bhatia’s Critique of Indian Engineers

What did Sabeer Bhatia actually say? In the podcast, Bhatia claimed, “99 per cent of Indian engineering graduates transition into management roles and begin lecturing others. Where is the work ethic? Where are those who truly work with their hands and strive to build something?”

He also pointed out the contradiction in India’s admiration for business leaders who, he believes, reinforce outsourcing rather than nurturing original software creation.

Bhatia stressed the need for India to change its mindset about technical skills and to start valuing those who write software, who code, and who engage with these challenges critically.

Drawing comparisons with China, the Hotmail co-founder remarked, “China ensures that everyone receives education. It’s akin to subsidised education and subsidised cars.”

In his commentary on India, he added, “Currently, education is accessible only to the affluent. And what do the wealthy do? They pursue education merely to secure a marriage and a dowry. What sort of mindset is that?”