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Autobiography of Fredrick Castro Part 2 26.1.2024

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For a considerable duration, I found myself unable to dedicate time to the continuation of my autobiography. Today, I resolved to pick up where I left off. Reflecting on the blessings bestowed upon me by God Jehovah, I couldn't help but marvel at the stark contrast between my current reality and the seemingly utopian conditions of my childhood. My mail ID is frdywalter@yahoo.com
Transformation of my life from 1961 to 2024
During my formative years, many aspects of life that I now take for granted were nothing short of fantastical. From my earliest recollections, I harboured a sense of living in a country plagued by misfortune. The possession of a bicycle or radio necessitated licenses, subject to renewal on a monthly or annual basis. Communication was limited to postcards and inland letters, and the luxury of landline phones was a rarity. Two-wheelers, four-wheelers, refrigerators, and air conditioners were considered ultra-luxuries.
In the realm of illumination, ordinary bulbs emitting yellow light were the standard. Mixers, grinders, televisions, cameras, record players, music systems, gas stoves, ready-made masalas, and packaged foods were concepts unheard of, at least in Nagercoil, my birthplace and upbringing locale. Interestingly, my maternal grandfather's younger brother, Jos Nehemiah, who served as chef de cabinet in the UNO while stationed in Rome, would regale us with tales of the modern conveniences such as mixers, grinders, televisions, cameras, record players, music systems, gas stoves, ready-made masalas, packaged foods, as well as the various models of bikes, cars, and airplanes he encountered during his global travels.
I had the incredible opportunity to pursue my studies in Economics at the esteemed Madras Christian College in Tambaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. During the mid-70s to mid-80s, this institution boasted some of the most renowned economists as professors. Looking back, I am grateful for the insights gained during that period, especially as I reflect on the current state of the Indian Economy.
Now retired, I find myself engaged as an HR & IR consultant for various organizations. It's remarkable to consider that earning 300 Rupees per month was once a significant achievement during my youth, and today, my monthly salary amounts to a few Lakhs. As a consultant, I've been blessed by God Jehovah with a substantial monthly remuneration. Additionally, I am fortunate to own a house set in a sprawling 21,800 square feet premises, completely solarized.
God Jehovah has bestowed upon me the joys of a family, including three children and five grandchildren. Our home is shared with two German Shepherds, two Great Danes, three country dogs, hens, geese, turkeys, various cats, birds, fish, fruit trees, and an assortment of fancy plants. My wife, a remarkable cook, not only prepares delicious meals but also transforms our house into a warm and welcoming home. I recollect the days when I worked as a teacher in a small school, ensuring that I wasn't a burden to anyone.
Today, I revel in having my own library, bar, and office—all gifts from God Jehovah, for which I am eternally grateful. I've had the privilege of air travel to numerous states in India and a few international destinations. The respect I receive from my junior HR colleagues is humbling. Reflecting on the past, I recall a time when it seemed unlikely that anyone would consider giving their daughter in marriage to me.
Looking back at the challenges posed by the economy, which had affected many lives, I am grateful for the grace of God Jehovah, who has orchestrated a remarkable transformation in my life.
India's controlled economy of the 1960s and 70s, particularly the licensing regime for essential goods, was a unique chapter in the nation's development journey. Here's a closer look at the specific examples
Cement under licensing:
Imagine a world where building your dream home involved not just bricks and mortar, but also navigating the labyrinthine bureaucracy of obtaining a cement license. That was the reality in India during the 1960s and 70s.
Due to a shortage of domestic production and a focus on prioritizing infrastructure projects, the government strictly controlled the distribution of cement. Individuals and small construction projects had to acquire permits from designated authorities, often facing long wait times and limited quotas.
This system, while ensuring essential projects received adequate supplies, created bottlenecks and inefficiencies for ordinary citizens. Black marketing of cement licenses also became rampant, adding another layer of frustration to the process.
Bicycles and radios requiring permits:
Owning a bicycle or a radio, once considered everyday conveniences, were luxuries subject to government control in this era.
Similar to cement, bicycles were deemed essential for transportation, particularly in rural areas. However, production limitations and import restrictions meant obtaining a permit to purchase one was often necessary. This system aimed to ensure equitable distribution but also limited individual choices and ownership.
Radios, meanwhile, served as a window to the outside world, providing news, entertainment, and cultural exposure. Yet, government control over radio frequencies and content meant citizens needed permits to own and operate them. This aimed to regulate information dissemination and maintain control over the airwaves.
The end of the cursed Licence Raj era:
The controlled economy gradually began to loosen its grip in the late 1970s and early 80s. Liberalization policies, coupled with increased domestic production, led to the dismantling of the licensing regime for most essential goods, including cement, bicycles, and radios.
By the 1990s, these items became readily available in the open market, marking a significant shift in how people accessed basic necessities and experienced personal freedoms.
Weaving my personal experience with the broader socio-economic tapestry of India from 1961 to 2024 would make for a truly captivating autobiography
1971: Liberation of Bangladesh and Emergence of India as a Regional Power
In 1971, a pivotal moment in South Asian history unfolded with the Liberation of Bangladesh. The conflict arose from political and cultural tensions between East and West Pakistan, culminating in a war of independence. India played a crucial role in supporting the Bangladeshi struggle for freedom, and the conflict ultimately led to the creation of the independent nation of Bangladesh. This event not only marked a significant geopolitical shift but also established India as a regional power with the capacity to influence major political developments in the subcontinent.

1975-77: Emergency Period, a Controversial Chapter in Indian History
The period from 1975 to 1977 is remembered as the Emergency, a controversial chapter in Indian history. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency, citing internal disturbances. During this time, civil liberties were suspended, and political opponents faced repression. The controversial decision was met with criticism for its authoritarian nature, but it also saw significant economic reforms. The Emergency period remains a topic of intense debate and reflection, representing a critical juncture in India's democratic journey.

1977: Janata Party's Victory in General Elections, Marking the End of Single-Party Dominance
In 1977, the Janata Party achieved a historic victory in the general elections, bringing an end to the single-party dominance of the Congress. The coalition, comprising various opposition parties, united against the perceived authoritarianism of the Congress government during the Emergency. The election marked a significant shift in India's political landscape, ushering in a multi-party system and emphasizing the importance of a democratic and pluralistic political process.
Arrival of the Black and white television
This write-up brings back fond memories and inspires me to paint a vivid picture of those early television days
The arrival of black and white television in India was a revolution, transforming living rooms into portals to a new world. Here's a nostalgic trip down memory lane, capturing the magic of those early days:
The Flickering Arrival:
The 1960s saw the grainy magic of black and white television enter Indian homes. Doordarshan, the national broadcaster, initially offered just a few hours of programming daily, typically starting in the late afternoon and ending around 10 pm.
Antenna Acrobatics:

Clarity was a fickle friend in those days. Picture quality heavily depended on the trusty rooftop antenna, a contraption of metal rods and wires that needed regular tuning and, often, acrobatic adjustments. Every twist and turn of the knob, guided by the grainy image on the screen, was a ritual in itself.
Limited Pleasures:
Programming was a curated affair, featuring news, documentaries, educational shows, and a sprinkling of entertainment. Popular shows like "Ramayan," "Hum Log," and "Buniyaad" became national events, drawing families together around the flickering screen.
Community Viewing:
Owning a TV was a privilege, and those who did were often the center of neighborhood attraction. Evenings saw throngs of eager viewers gathering in living rooms, transforming them into makeshift theaters. Sharing coffee and hushed commentary became a cherished ritual.
Technical Hiccups:
Technical glitches were frequent party crashers. Fuzzy reception, snowstorms on the screen, and sudden signal drops were met with collective groans. The iconic "Sorry for the interruption" board became a familiar sight, adding to the endearing quirks of the viewing experience.
Monetizing the Magic:
Some enterprising TV owners saw an opportunity in their prized possession. They charged a small viewing fee from neighbors, turning their homes into mini-theaters. This entrepreneurial spirit, fueled by the collective love for televised entertainment, was a testament to the transformative power of the medium.
Channel Surfing Symphony:
From one grainy channel to a kaleidoscope of options, the Indian television landscape has come a long way. The arrival of satellite channels in the 1990s shattered the monopoly, offering a smorgasbord of regional and international programming.
Remote Revolution:
Gone are the days of antenna acrobatics and manual channel tuning. The remote control, once a futuristic fantasy, became an essential tool, allowing viewers to navigate the ever-expanding channel universe with effortless ease.
The black-and-white television era may be a distant memory, but its legacy lives on. It was a time of shared experiences, limited pleasures savoured to the fullest, and a testament to the enduring human desire for connection and entertainment. As you weave these anecdotes into your autobiography, remember to capture the essence of that era, the excitement, the frustrations, and the transformative power of a flickering screen that opened a window to a wider world.
This write-up brings back fond memories and inspires me to paint a vivid picture of those early television days

Some of the well-known television brands of that era:

Onida: Onida was a popular brand known for its television sets. It gained recognition for introducing color televisions in the Indian market.

Kelvinator: Kelvinator, originally known for its refrigerators, expanded its product range to include televisions during this period.

Bush: Bush was another brand that had a presence in the Indian television market. It was known for producing a variety of electronic appliances, including televisions.

Philips: Philips, an international electronics company, was a notable player in the Indian television market during the 1970s.

HMV (His Master's Voice): HMV, known for its music and entertainment products, also entered the television market and offered a range of television sets.

Uptron: Uptron (United Television) was an Indian government-owned company that produced television sets during this period.

BPL (British Physical Laboratories): BPL was a popular brand that manufactured a range of consumer electronics, including televisions.

Westinghouse: Westinghouse, an American brand, had a presence in the Indian market and was known for its electronic appliances, including televisions.

During the late 1970s in India, along with the more well-known brands, there were also regional and niche brands that played a role in the television market. Keltron and Sonodyne are examples of such brands:

Keltron (Kerala State Electronics Development Corporation Limited): Keltron, based in Kerala, was a government-owned electronics company. It was involved in the production of a variety of electronic goods, including televisions. Keltron contributed to the electronics industry in the region and had a presence in the television market during that period.

Sonodyne: Sonodyne was a private company that had a presence in the consumer electronics sector, including the manufacturing of televisions. The brand was known for its audio and video products.

1978: Color Television Arrives in India, Opening a Window to a More Vibrant World
The year 1978 witnessed a technological milestone in India with the introduction of colour television. This marked a significant leap from the earlier black-and-white broadcasts, offering viewers a more vibrant and visually immersive experience. The advent of colour television not only transformed the entertainment landscape but also played a role in shaping the cultural and social fabric of the country, providing a window to a more colourful and diverse world for the Indian audience.

Cruising Through Time: From Rajdoot to Riches, the Indian Vehicle Evolution
Ah, the 1960s in India! A time when two-wheelers meant the sturdy thump of a Rajdoot or the swagger of a Yezdi, and four-wheelers were synonymous with the regal Ambassador, the practical Fiat, or the dependable Standard. It was a world far removed from the dizzying array of vehicles gracing our roads today, but one brimming with its own unique charm and challenges.
Limited Choices, Lofty Dreams:
Back then, owning a vehicle wasn't just about convenience; it was a symbol of achievement. With only a handful of manufacturers and models, options were limited, but desires were boundless. A Rajdoot, at around ₹4,000, was the aspirational dream for many, while a Bullet, costing nearly ₹8,000, was reserved for the truly adventurous.

For those seeking four wheels, the Ambassador, priced at around ₹18,000, exuded an air of authority, while the Fiat, starting at ₹7,000, offered a touch of Italian flair. The Standard, at a more pocket-friendly ₹6,000, was the workhorse for many families.

My family did not own a two-wheeler or a four wheeler. Whenever one of these passedby, the only thought which came to my mind was, Hmmm I will never be able to own one of these in my life. Now the great Jehovah has blessed me with a two-wheeler and two four-wheelers.

The Arduous Acquisition:

But owning these beauties wasn't a simple matter of walking into a showroom and swiping a credit card. The process was an exercise in patience and persistence. Booking a vehicle often involved depositing a significant sum in foreign exchange, a precious commodity back then. The wait times could stretch for months, even years, with the agony of anticipation only heightened by the lack of readily available information.

Banks: Gatekeepers of Dreams:

And forget about bank loans. In those days, financial institutions were more akin to gatekeepers, scrutinizing applicants with a skepticism bordering on disdain. The idea of a personal loan for a vehicle was practically unheard of. Those brave enough to venture into the realm of borrowing had to navigate a labyrinth of paperwork, collateral requirements, and endless visits to various offices, often returning empty-handed and disheartened.

A World Transformed:

Fast forward to the present day, and the Indian automotive landscape is unrecognizable. From the humble beginnings of a handful of manufacturers, we now boast a global village of brands, catering to every budget and taste. From fuel-efficient scooters to luxurious SUVs, the variety is breathtaking.

And the financial landscape has undergone a metamorphosis as well. Gone are the days of begging banks for loans. Today, financial institutions are eager to woo customers with a plethora of schemes and easy access to credit. Owning a vehicle is no longer a distant dream; it's a readily achievable goal for many.

A Journey of Progress:

The evolution of the Indian vehicle market is a testament to the nation's economic progress and changing aspirations. It's a story of overcoming limitations, embracing innovation, and making personal mobility a reality for millions. As you weave these experiences into your autobiography, remember to capture not just the nostalgia of the past but also the awe-inspiring progress we've made. Let your journey be a tribute to the resilience and indomitable spirit of a nation on the move.