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Mayank

Mayank Kumar

Education Expert 

189 Answers | 16 Followers

Mayank Kumar is the co-founder and managing director of upGrad, a higher EdTech company. With over 10 years of experience in the education sector, Kumar can offer guidance about degree courses, campus, job-linked and executive programmes and studying abroad.An MBA graduate from ISB Hyderabad, he holds a BTech in mechanical engineering from IIT Delhi.... more

Answered on Aug 31, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 11, 2023Hindi
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Hi, I am 35 yrs old and currently working in an IT firm. I always had an interest in Weather forecasting, Meteorological branch of science. Are there any available institutes in India to pursue this education? Also please suggest career opportunities in the same. Thanks for your guidance.
Ans: It's great. Here are a few suggestions:

​Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)​ that focuses on atmospheric and oceanic sciences​, and also offer various research programs and short-term courses related to meteorology.

​Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) provides training programs for meteorologists ​+​ offers the opportunity to work in weather forecasting and related areas.

​To begin with, consider pursuing a degree in meteorology, atmospheric sciences, or related fields. Look for universities or institutes that offer programs in these areas.​ Meteorology has various sub-disciplines, including climatology, atmospheric physics, remote sensing, and more. Depending on your interest, choose a speciali​sation.​ Do remember that meteorology is a dynamic filed and will require constant learning to refresh skills and tools understanding.

Gain practical experience by participating in internships or research projects related to meteorology​y to enhance your hands-on skills, and connect with peers through webinars or conferences.

​You may do a thorough research to understand the job landscape. A few career prospects include Weather Forecaster​, Climate Researcher​. Research Scientist​, Air Quality Specialist​, Disaster Management​ (to predict and manag​e natural disasters like cyclones, floods, and droughts​), Agricultural Meteorologist​, Aviation Meteorologist​, or Media Meteorologist​. The Indian Meteorological Department and other government agencies often hire meteorologists for weather forecasting and related positions​, while some private companies require weather experts for specific projects or to analy​se data for industries such as agriculture, energy, transportation, and more.
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Answered on Aug 31, 2023

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Hello Mayank,my twin daughters in 10th,,which direction/subjects would be advisable for a promising future for them. Both are good in studies
Ans: Hi Vivek, It's great to hear that your twin daughters are doing well in their studies and that you're considering their future prospects. ​A​t this stage, it's important to learn about their interests, strengths, and goals.

​a) You can start by having open conversations with your daughters about their interests​: what subjects do they enjoy studying the most​, what activities or hobbies do they have outside of school​, and also understanding their passions can help guide their choices.​ Are they more inclined towards science, mathematics, literature, arts, or a combination? Leverage their ​academic strengths when deciding on subjects.

​b) Research the types of jobs that align with their interests​. It is important to note that many careers require specific educational paths, so understanding their potential career options ​at an early stage can help narrow down subject choices.​ Also, it is advised to research emerging industries and technologies that will likely play a significant role in the future. This could help guide their choices towards fields with promising job prospects.

​c) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields are highly sought after and offer a wide range of opportunities. If your daughters have an aptitude for subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, they might consider careers in engineering, medicine, research, data science, or technology.​ Alternatively, if your daughters have a flair for creativity, languages, literature, or the arts, they might consider careers in fields like literature, journalism, languages, visual or performing arts, design, communication, and more. It's ​also possible to combine interests. For example, they could pursue careers in fields like medical illustration (combining biology and art), science communication (combining science and writing), or technology and art (such as graphic design for websites or games).

​d) Most importantly, encourage participation in extracurricular activities, as they can help develop important skills and interests. These activities can also shape their character and add depth to their college applications.​ Keep in mind that educational and career paths are not set in stone. Many people switch careers multiple times in their lives. What's important is that they develop a strong foundation of skills, critical thinking, and adaptability that will serve them well in any field.
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Answered on Aug 31, 2023

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How I can complete my B. TECH IN ELECTRONIC AND COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING ONLINE. I HAVE COMPLETED DIPLOMA COURSE IN THIS STREAM AND NOW IN GOVT. JOB. PLEASE TELL ME SOME AICTE APPROVED INSTITUTE TO IMPROVE MY EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATION WHICH IS HELPFUL FOR MY JOB.
Ans: ​Hi Rajiv, Completing your ​B.Tech in Electronic and Communication Engineering online while maintaining your government job is a ​g​ood idea. There are several AICTE-approved institutes ​available but might have to thorough research before you make an informed career move:

​a) Look for institutes that have a good reputation and offer flexible schedules suitable for working professionals. Some well-known institutions in India that offer online engineering programs include:

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
​Amity University Online
​Sikkim Manipal University Distance Education

​b) Once you've identified institutes, carefully review the course curriculum and syllabus for the B.Tech program they offer. Ensure that the subjects align with your career goals and cover relevant topics in electronic and communication engineering​, and also check the admission requirements for the program​. Since you have completed a diploma course, you might be eligible for lateral entry into the B.Tech program, which could save you some time.

​c) Since you're working, it's important to choose a program that offers flexibility in terms of scheduling and study pace. Look for programs that provide online lectures, recorded materials, and support through digital platforms.​ Also, it is very critical to ensure that the institute and the program you choose are accredited by relevant authorities. AICTE approval is important, but also consider other accreditations​ and alternate skills that might add value to your degree.​ There are several online education companies that might help you achieve that; would advise you to assess your skill competencies and take a call.

​d​) Understand the cost of the program, including tuition fees, examination fees, and any other expenses​ + Compare different institutes to find the one that offers a good balance of quality education and affordability.​ Balancing work, studies, and personal life can be challenging​, hence ensure you plan your schedule effectively to allocate time for studying, assignments, and exams.

​e) Online programs might offer opportunities to interact with fellow students through discussion forums or online platforms. Networking can enhance your learning experience and provide you with a broader perspective.​ Remember that pursuing an online B.Tech program requires dedication and discipline​, and it's a significant commitment,​ so ensure your career goals are aligned with the same.
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Answered on Aug 17, 2023

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Hello Mayank. My son is currently in Class 12th Commerce (ISC). He has been an average student throughout. Basis of this we realise getting admission into any good college in India for BBA may be difficult. So we thought of sending him abroad, though we are a middle class business family. But i feel BBA is a very general degree to pursue in US, UK or Canada. We are confused. His SAT score is 1360 and IELTS 8.0. Predicted 12th scores would come around 80%. Pls guide whether we should think of abroad. Thanks.
Ans: Thanks for writing to me, Vikas. Congratulations on your son's SAT score. As a general rule, a BBA with a specialisation is substantially sought-after across global markets, especially because of emerging specialisations, majorly tech-infused. In fact, most skilled migration lists for major study abroad destinations prioritise accounting, project management, business analytics, etc. and promise an expedited integration into their country's workforce. That said, your son's academic and career aspirations remain a cornerstone for my final advice. Overall, a high school score of 75% and above along with this SAT score should get him into the Top 50 US Schools. Alternatively, to help your son ease into academic rigour, you can also try and connect with our Study Abroad team at upGrad before making a sound decision. They can help you understand how can your son pursue the initial year of undergrad coursework in India and move to higher-ranked schools in the subsequent year.
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Answered on Aug 10, 2023

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Hi, my daughter want to pursue integrated law.She got admission in Christ lavasa,pune. How is the college.is it worth sending her there
Ans: Christ (Deemed to be University) is accredited by the NAAC and enjoys a great reputation among India's Top colleges. Hence, it is safe to rely on the kind of education and opportunities it would offer across campuses. You can also consider the following parameters to evaluate if the program will add any value:
a) It is advised to check if the institution is accredited by relevant educational bodies
b) Learn about the qualifications and experience of the faculty members in the law program
c) Check the campus infrastructure, libraries, moot courtrooms, and other facilities necessary for a comprehensive legal education
d) Another critical aspect is to check the placement track record; if the program provides opportunities for internships and placements in reputed law firms, corporate legal departments, or other relevant organizations.
e) Examine the curriculum to ensure that it covers a wide range of legal subjects and provides practical exposure through moot court competitions, internships, and workshops.
f) Go through online reviews, alumni feedback, and opinions from professionals in the legal field can provide insights
g) Understand the extracurricular activities the curriculum provides - opportunities for participation in moot court competitions, seminars, workshops, or legal aid clinics
h)A strong alumni network will also be helpful in providing valuable connections
i) Evaluate the tuition fees, scholarships, and any other financial aspects to ensure they align with your budget and expectations
j) If possible visit the campus and interact with faculty members, students, and administrators to get a feel for the institution's environment and culture.
k) Alternatively, she must also explore similar programs that can be pursued online - there are many Edtechs that offer rigorous-training based modules to ensure there's tangible career growth at the end of the program, as good as any offline counterpart.
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Answered on Aug 10, 2023

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Sir My daughter is Passed 12 exam with 86% with bio (B Group) , she is interested in Cell and Molecular Biology Integrated Course B.sc+M.sc 5 years Duration in MSU,Baroda, is good course kindly advice me his choice is correct or if any other option.
Ans: ​Hi Chetan, Choosing a course in higher education is an important​ and life-impacting decision, and it's great that your daughter is interested in pursuing a field that aligns with her academic interests. Pursuing an integrated B.Sc + M.Sc ​will help her build a very strong subject foundation but it's always a good idea to consider various factors before making a final decision. ​It is important to ensure that the courses offered align with her interests and goals, and thorough research on faculty would be ideal. Strong faculty and access to advanced laboratory facilities can greatly enhance the learning experience.​ While education is important, we must also consider the career growth it would offer at the end, and therefore,​ investigate if the university has connections with research institutions, biotech companies, or academic organisations where she can pursue research, internships, or employment.​ This will help you understand the opportunities it could offer in the future. The Alumni Success​ rate is also crucial, therefore, check their past records. It is always advised to research similar programs in other universities to see if there are additional options that might be a good fit for her interests and goals.​ Ultimately, if the integrated B.Sc + M.Sc program in Cell and Molecular Biology at MSU, Baroda ticks all the right boxes and aligns with your daughter's interests and goals, it could be a great choice. ​It is ranked #701-750 in Asian University Rankings 2023.​ Just make sure to gather as much information as possible and weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision.
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Answered on Aug 10, 2023

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I want to know about Christ lavasa,bballb.My daughter got admission there..Is it worth sending her there.Dies it have value?? Kindly confirm
Ans: Christ (Deemed to be University) is accredited by the NAAC and enjoys a great reputation among India's Top colleges. Hence, it is safe to rely on the kind of education and opportunities it would offer across campuses. You can also consider the following parameters to evaluate if the program will add any value:

a) It is advised to check if the institution is accredited by relevant educational bodies
b) Learn about the qualifications and experience of the faculty members in the law program
c) Check the campus infrastructure, libraries, moot courtrooms, and other facilities necessary for a comprehensive legal education
d) Another critical aspect is to check the placement track record; if the program provides opportunities for internships and placements in reputed law firms, corporate legal departments, or other relevant organizations.
e) Examine the curriculum to ensure that it covers a wide range of legal subjects and provides practical exposure through moot court competitions, internships, and workshops.
f) Go through online reviews, alumni feedback, and opinions from professionals in the legal field can provide insights
g) Understand the extracurricular activities the curriculum provides - opportunities for participation in moot court competitions, seminars, workshops, or legal aid clinics
h)A strong alumni network will also be helpful in providing valuable connections
i) Evaluate the tuition fees, scholarships, and any other financial aspects to ensure they align with your budget and expectations
j) If possible visit the campus and interact with faculty members, students, and administrators to get a feel for the institution's environment and culture.
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Answered on Aug 10, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2023Hindi
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My son has diploma in computer engineering .I thought of he doing BE after diploma & he has a strong base. But he is not interested in engineering. I know i made a mistake in asking him to take up engineering instead of exploring his interest. He is interested in music & painting. But now if he has to pursue a career in fine arts he need to complete 12th Arts which he is not .He joined diploma after 10th .Please suggest how he can pursue in fine arts field or does he have to do 12th Arts & then do graduation in fine arts .
Ans: ​Hi, The situation ​is a bit challenging due to his educational background but there are different options you can suggest:

​a) He can opt for bridge courses ​that will provide him with essential skills and knowledge in art and design to bridge the gap between his diploma in computer engineering and pursuing a degree in fine arts.
​b) He can work on building a strong portfolio showcasing his musical and painting skills. A well-curated portfolio can often compensate for the lack of formal education in arts. He can take up personal projects, attend workshops, and seek opportunities to showcase his work locally.
​c) If possible, h​e​ can try signing up for part-time or evening courses related to fine arts while pursuing his current diploma​ to gradually transition towards his passion
​d) Can also consider some open universities that offer flexible admission criteria and are more lenient with prior educational backgrounds. These institutions might have options for him to pursue a degree in fine arts even without a traditional 12th Arts background.​ OPJ's School of Arts and Social Studies offers short-duration courses while he can try opting for Masters in fine arts or Music, Calicut University has a few options as well. or can also look into art schools that have more flexible admissions policies, taking into account his unique educational background and skills.
​e) Encourage internships as well. He could seek out apprenticeships or internships with established artists or art studios to gain hands-on experience and learn from professionals in the field.
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Answered on Jul 26, 2023

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Hello Sir, My Son recently cleared SSC exam with 87.8%. He wants to pursue LAW please guide us for the same along with the other professional courses. regards
Ans: Hi Mrunal, Congratulations to your son on securing 87.8%. If he's so keen on pursuing LAW, then he must do thorough research before taking a call. Law is a diverse field with various specializations available - like criminal law, corporate law, family law, or environmental law. It's important that he identifies his interest first.

Next important step would be identifying the right programs that will get him the maximum career benefits. He could opt for a 3-year LL.B. program after completing his undergraduate degree in any discipline or a 5-year integrated LL.B. program which can be pursued directly after 12th. For admission to prestigious law schools offering integrated LL.B. programs, your son may need to appear for law entrance exams like CLAT (Common Law Admission Test), AILET (All India Law Entrance Test), LSAT (Law School Admission Test), etc. Make sure to stay updated about the exam dates, eligibility criteria, and application processes.

It's important to also compare different law schools based on their faculty, infrastructure, placement records, and specializations offered to be able to make an informed career choice. Today we have a range of online and blended programs available that comes with stronger hands-on element and are at par with offline /offer similar university accreditations. Strong writing skills, internships for gaining practical experience and registering for the BCI after course completion to practice law in the country, are important.

Also, before you suggest alternate career options to him, it's important to check about his interests and passions - Encourage open discussions about his career aspirations, and consider seeking guidance from career coaches or professionals in the fields he is considering.
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Answered on Jul 26, 2023

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Is NIEF ranking is important for choosing Private universities? What are the other parameters to find a good university?
Ans: Hi Aloke, while NIRF rankings are government compliant and add significant credibility, we must also assess other factors before making a career choice. The decision to opt for a program should be aligned with individuals’ future goals that coincide with their professional as well as personal interests.

The first step is evaluating your requirement - you could be a full-time professional looking for a change or growth opportunities in the industry or a student aiming for a higher degree. And these would also influence your career aspirations and your willingness to pursue a certain subject or skill.

Secondly, choosing a program that is affiliated with renowned institutions or that has received accreditations from national or international bodies is important. The core lies in your choice of the institution that will provide quality education and placement opportunities for a ​p​progressive career ahead.

Thirdly, the financial aspect of the program will have a​ certain influence. We recommend weighing balances on the cost incurred from the program and its return on the value gained, before making the final call. The type of program, the institution offering the program, and its result quality, will fix the cost that is on-demand.

Fourthly, the time it takes to pay off your investment in online programs sometimes feels undulating. Placement opportunities from the institution which offers you the program become the crucial deciding factor in the selection of the right plan. A suitable choice in selecting the best online program will measure your discretion as to what your next career step will be to be a feather on the previously golden experience-cap, or as a kick-start opportunity scaling into the industry.

And lastly, the kind of placement/career opportunities the program offers that could help professionals transition in their careers, becomes critical in the decision-making process. With all the factors mentioned above, you can choose the best-suited online program for yourself, in any preferred choice of field. The selection process must be a fastidious one with a precise review of all the individual points in determining the conclusion.
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Answered on Jul 18, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 04, 2023Hindi
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My DAUGHTER HAS CLEARED HSC ARTS FROM MAHARASHTRA BOARD, SHE IS INTERESTED IN MUSEUMOLOGY COURSE, CAN YOU GUIDE HOW TO GO ABOUT IT
Ans: Hi, that's really interesting - Muesomology is a niche field, and it may not be as commonly available as other courses. Therefore, it becomes important to conduct thorough research and explore multiple institutes to find the best fit for your daughter's education, that also matches her career aspirations. Begin by researching and identifying universities / institutes that offer programs in Museumology and gather information around admission, like minimum educational qualifications, entrance exams, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and interviews.

If applying for an undergraduate degree, evaluate the course curriculum, faculty expertise, and practical components of each program to determine which one aligns best with your daughter's interests.  Some institutes may require entrance exams as part of their admission process. Additionally, a well-crafted application can work wonders. This may involve writing a compelling personal statement that highlights her passion for museum studies, her relevant experiences, and her career aspirations. She can also consider Internship opportunities with local museums or cultural institutions, that will help her gain practical experience, and enhance her understanding of the field. And most importantly, discuss the financial aspects including tuition fees, scholarships, grants, or financial aid options to support her education. Some of the career opportunities that she could land after pursuing her education include Gallery Assistant, Museum Director, Design Consultant, or Collections Assistant, etc. India is rich in cultural heritage - more than just art forms, historical artefacts, and archaeological sites. The growing popularity of Museumology will help today's youth preserve these cultural treasures for future generations.
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Answered on Jul 18, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 08, 2023Hindi
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My daughter is an MBBS intern and based in Delhi. Post MBBS, she wants to pursue Hospital Management preferably 2 years course. Can you please guide about the Institutes or suitable carrear counseller, to whom we can talk in details
Ans: ​Hi, ​pursuing a career in hospital management could be a good choice ​but it is critical to do thorough research​ before making an informed decision. You may look at some of these institutes that offer hospital management courses​ and have a good reputation​ / ​experienced faculty​ /comprehensive curriculum.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi
Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai
Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR), Jaipur
Apollo Institute of Hospital Administration (AIHA), Hyderabad
Xavier Institute of Management (XIMB), Bhubaneswar

​Additionally, it is always a good idea to network with Alumni. ​Try connecting with alumni who have pursued hospital management courses from these institutes or whichever you decide to go with, as they ​can provide insights into the program's quality, faculty, placements, and overall learning experience/journey. LinkedIn could be a useful resource here. ​Also, ​keep an eye out for education fairs and expos where you can interact with representatives from different institutes offering hospital management courses​ for evaluating purposes and also reach out to professionals working in the healthcare industry​ for accurate insights. ​​Remember to consider factors such as course duration, curriculum, practical exposure, and placement opportunities when selecting an institute. It's also essential to discuss financial aspects, including tuition fees and scholarships, with your daughter.
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Answered on Jul 18, 2023

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Answered on Jul 04, 2023

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Hi, My name is manik acharya, B.sc graduate (10+2+2) system. My age is 48+. I have basic computer knowledge. What course can give me a suitable and stable career?. I have around 12 years experience in Business development and customer relationship in large medicine shop. I need your help.
Ans: Hi Manik, considering your background and experience, several courses can provide you with suitable/stable career options:

Certificate in Retail Management: Given your experience in business development and customer relationship in a medicine shop, a certificate program in retail management can enhance your skills and knowledge in the field. It will equip you with the necessary competencies to manage operations, inventory, sales, customer service, and team management in a retail environment.

Advanced certification in Digital Marketing: As technology continues to play a significant role in business growth, a detailed understanding of digital marketing can open up opportunities for you. It could take you through various aspects of online marketing, including search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, content marketing, and analytics, and can also be valuable for positions such as digital marketing executive, social media manager, or SEO specialist.

Certification in Business Analytics: With your basic computer knowledge, a certification course in business analytics can be a suitable choice. This program will teach you how to use data analysis techniques to derive insights and make informed business decisions. Business analytics professionals are in high demand across industries and can work as business analysts, data analysts, or market research analysts.

Certification in Project Management: If you have strong organizational and leadership skills, a certification in project management can be a valuable addition to your profile. This course will equip you with the knowledge and tools required to successfully plan, execute, and manage projects. Project management skills are in demand across various sectors and can lead to roles such as project coordinator, team leader, or project manager. The profession of project management has recently become one of the hottest jobs, not only in the tech market but across industries. Demand for project managers is growing faster than demand for workers in other occupations and by 2027, 90 million individuals will need to be skilled in project-oriented roles.
The PMP certification can help you land lucrative roles in IT, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and other exciting industries.

Certification in Healthcare Management: Given your experience in the medicine shop industry, a certification in healthcare management can provide you with a career path in healthcare administration. It will cover topics such as healthcare policies, hospital operations, healthcare marketing, and healthcare quality management. It can lead to roles like healthcare administrator, clinic manager, or operations manager in the healthcare sector.

Remember, while pursuing any course, it's essential to consider your interests, long-term goals, and market demand for specific skills. Conduct thorough research on the courses mentioned above, and evaluate their curriculum, duration, and potential career prospects. It is very important to align your domain interest with the course you'd want to pursue to ensure maximum accuracy of career outcome. Additionally, should you wish to gain further insights/ guidance tailored to your specific needs, feel free to connect with any career counsellors at upGrad.
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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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