Dear Anu Krishna, I'm a 39 year old man, married and having a daughter.

It was an arranged marriage.

We started off okay, with some good level of romance initially but plateaued later.

First the emotional connect dipped, then her trust dipped and eventually physical intimacy dipped.

After childbirth, our sex life hit a low and in past 5 years it has been almost a sexless marriage.

I had not been a perfect partner but very much willing to fix my mistakes (I haven't cheated on her, ever). But my wife has been aloof with near zero communication.

I never interfered in her independence of any form. I always trusted her but I never felt trusted/wanted/loved.

She refuses to have meaningful deep conversations. We do have a lot of financial stress. We considered divorce about 5 years ago but didn't because of our daughter.

Last year, I met a colleague and I connected emotionally well with her. I do consider her a good friend but my family (I stay with my parents) think I'm in an affair.

This new friend also considers me her friend. Now my wife seems a little jealous of my friend, which is a good sign that there is still some hope to salvage this marriage.

People have advised me both ways - to divorce and not to. I really want a happy life for myself and my daughter. I am confused - what should I do?

Ans: Becoming a pilot for Air India, or any commercial airline, requires dedication, training, and meeting specific qualifications. Here are the general steps to becoming a pilot for Air India: Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent qualification with a strong background in mathematics, physics, and English. Many aspiring pilots also pursue a bachelor's degree, although it may not be mandatory for all airlines. Pass a thorough medical examination conducted by an aviation medical examiner to obtain a medical certificate to ensure that you meet the medical standards required to operate aircraft. Enroll in a reputable flight training school or academy to obtain the necessary flight training and experience. You'll need to complete a certain number of flight hours, including both solo and dual instruction, to qualify for a commercial pilot license. Obtain a private pilot license (PPL), followed by a commercial pilot license (CPL) from the aviation authority in India. Additionally, you'll need to earn various ratings and endorsements, such as instrument rating (IR) and multi-engine rating (ME), to qualify for airline pilot positions. Gain experience as a pilot by accumulating flight hours through various means, including flight instruction, aerial surveying, charter flights, or other entry-level pilot positions. Most airlines, including Air India, require pilots to have a minimum number of flight hours before applying for a position. Once you meet the qualifications and experience requirements, you can apply for pilot positions with Air India through their official recruitment channels. Keep an eye on their website or job postings for any openings for pilots. If selected for an interview, you'll undergo various assessments, including technical knowledge tests, simulator evaluations, and interviews with airline representatives. Successful candidates may then be offered employment as a pilot with Air India. After being hired by Air India, you'll undergo type rating training on the specific aircraft types operated by the airline. This training includes classroom instruction, simulator sessions, and flight training to become qualified to operate the airline's aircraft. As a pilot for Air India, you'll undergo recurrent training and proficiency checks periodically to maintain your qualifications and stay up-to-date with the latest regulations, procedures, and aircraft technologies.

It's essential to research and understand the specific requirements and procedures for becoming a pilot for Air India, as they may have additional criteria or selection processes tailored to their airline operations. Additionally, networking with current pilots and industry professionals can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout your career journey.

Ans: A Ph.D. in virology from a prestigious institution like the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) in Bangalore opens up numerous career opportunities for your daughter. With her expertise in virology, she can pursue a career as a research scientist in academic institutions, research laboratories, government agencies, or pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. She can conduct research on viruses, develop diagnostic tools, study virus-host interactions, or contribute to vaccine and antiviral drug development. Your daughter may choose to pursue a career in academia as a faculty member or postdoctoral researcher. She can apply for faculty positions at universities or colleges, where she can teach virology courses, mentor students, and lead independent research projects. Many pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and healthcare companies hire virologists for their R&D divisions. Your daughter can work in drug discovery, vaccine development, clinical trials, or diagnostics development, contributing to the development of novel therapeutics or preventive measures against viral diseases. With a Ph.D. in virology, your daughter can work in public health organizations, government agencies, or international health agencies. She can contribute to epidemiological studies, outbreak investigations, disease surveillance, and public health policy development related to viral infections. Your daughter can work as a consultant or advisor for organizations that require expertise in virology, such as biotech startups, pharmaceutical companies, regulatory agencies, or healthcare organizations. She can provide scientific advice, expertise in regulatory compliance, or strategic guidance for research and development projects.

These are just a few examples of the diverse career paths available to someone with a Ph.D. in virology. Depending on her interests, skills, and career goals, your daughter can explore various opportunities in research, academia, industry, public health, communication, or entrepreneurship. Encourage her to network with professionals in her field, attend conferences, and explore different career options to find the path that best suits her interests and aspirations.

Ans: Amity University Mumbai is part of the prestigious Amity Group of Institutions, known for its focus on quality education and innovative programs. Pursuing a Bachelor of Design in Fine Arts from Amity University Mumbai can offer several benefits: This program at Amity University Mumbai likely offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of fine arts, including drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and multimedia arts. Students may have the opportunity to explore different mediums and techniques under the guidance of experienced faculty members. Amity University Mumbai is known for its modern infrastructure and facilities, including well-equipped studios, art labs, exhibition spaces, and digital resources. These facilities provide students with an inspiring environment to unleash their creativity and hone their artistic skills. Amity University often collaborates with industry partners and professionals to provide students with real-world exposure and opportunities for internships, workshops, seminars, and industry projects. This exposure helps students gain practical experience, build professional networks, and prepare for careers in the field of fine arts.

However, it's essential to conduct thorough research and consider factors such as program accreditation, alumni feedback, campus culture, and career support services before making a decision. Additionally, prospective students may benefit from visiting the campus, attending orientation sessions, and speaking with current students or alumni to gain insights into this program in Fine Arts at Amity University Mumbai.

Ans: It's natural to feel conflicted about whether to pursue your passion or stick with a secure job, especially when considering factors like job market volatility and personal abilities. Here are some points to consider that might help you make a decision: Consider the balance between pursuing your passion for control and robotics fields and the stability offered by your current government job at a PSU. Think about what will ultimately bring you more fulfillment and satisfaction in the long run. While the job market for control and robotics fields may have some volatility, these sectors also offer opportunities for growth and innovation. Research the demand for professionals in these fields, the potential for career advancement, and the types of companies or industries that are investing in automation and robotics technologies. Reflect on your interest in the control and robotics fields and your desire to learn and grow professionally. Pursuing a master's degree in these areas could provide you with valuable skills, knowledge, and experiences that align better with your career aspirations and interests. While age can be a factor in career decisions, it's important to prioritize your long-term career goals and personal fulfillment. With good financial support and a willingness to learn, you can overcome any perceived limitations and make meaningful progress in your career. Assess the potential risks and rewards associated with transitioning to a new field versus staying in your current job. Consider developing a backup plan or exploring part-time or online learning options that allow you to gain skills in control and robotics fields while maintaining your current job security. 

Assess the potential risks and rewards associated with transitioning to a new field versus staying in your current job. Consider developing a backup plan or exploring part-time or online learning options that allow you to gain skills in control and robotics fields while maintaining your current job security.

Ans: Both M.Sc. Bioinformatics and M.C.A. (Master of Computer Applications) have their own merits and can lead to rewarding career paths. However, the choice between the two depends on individual interests, career goals, and preferences. Here are some reasons why someone might consider M.Sc. Bioinformatics over M.C.A.: Individuals with a strong interest in biology, genetics, and computational sciences may find M.Sc. Bioinformatics more appealing. This program integrates biological sciences with computer science, allowing students to apply computational methods to analyze biological data and solve complex biological problems. It opens up career opportunities in diverse sectors such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, genomics, and academic research institutions. Graduates can work on projects related to drug discovery, personalized medicine, genomics research, agricultural biotechnology, and more. It offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining knowledge and techniques from biology, computer science, statistics, and bioinformatics. Students develop a broad skill set that is highly relevant in fields where biological data analysis and computational modeling are essential. With advancements in genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics technologies, there is a growing demand for professionals skilled in bioinformatics analysis and interpretation. Graduates with expertise in bioinformatics are well-positioned to address the challenges of big data in the life sciences industry. M.Sc. Bioinformatics graduates have the opportunity to contribute to scientific research and discovery by leveraging computational methods to analyze biological data, identify patterns, and gain insights into biological processes. Their work can lead to breakthroughs in areas such as disease diagnosis, drug development, and precision medicine.

While M.Sc. Bioinformatics may offer unique advantages for individuals interested in the intersection of biology and computational sciences, it's important to consider personal interests, career goals, and job market dynamics when making a decision. Ultimately, both M.Sc. Bioinformatics and M.C.A. have the potential to lead to fulfilling and impactful careers, and your daughter should choose the path that aligns best with her aspirations and strengths.

Ans: Absolutely, it sounds like you've been burning the midnight oil for quite some time! It's crucial to prioritize your health and well-being, especially when the demands of your job start to affect you physically and mentally. Let's explore some alternative career avenues where you can still leverage your expertise and experience in finance without the overwhelming stress:

1. Financial Technology (FinTech) Specialist:

Step into the world of FinTech, where your expertise in IT and finance can revolutionize traditional banking and financial services. By developing innovative solutions that streamline processes and enhance user experiences, you'll contribute to a more efficient and accessible financial ecosystem, all while enjoying a less stressful work environment compared to client-facing roles.

2. Cybersecurity Analyst in Finance:

Protecting sensitive financial data is paramount in today's digital landscape. As a cybersecurity analyst specializing in finance, your dual proficiency in IT and finance equips you to safeguard financial institutions from cyber threats with precision and expertise, all while enjoying the stability of a role focused on risk mitigation rather than high-pressure client interactions.

3. Quantitative Analyst (Quant) in Finance:

Dive into the world of quantitative analysis, where your technical prowess and financial insight can drive data-driven decisions in portfolio management, risk assessment, and trading strategies. By leveraging your combined knowledge, you'll excel in roles that prioritize analytical rigor and strategic thinking, offering a more predictable and structured work environment compared to consultancy roles.

4. Financial Systems Analyst:

Become the bridge between IT systems and financial operations within an organization. Your ability to optimize financial software systems while ensuring compliance and efficiency will contribute to smoother workflows and reduced stress for finance teams, offering a rewarding blend of technical problem-solving and financial acumen without the demands of client-facing roles.

5. Data Scientist in Finance:

Unlock the power of data in the financial sector, leveraging your expertise in IT and finance to extract actionable insights from vast datasets. By applying advanced analytics and machine learning techniques, you'll drive informed decision-making and strategic planning, all while enjoying the autonomy and intellectual stimulation of a data-driven role with less client pressure.

In these specialized roles, your unique blend of IT and finance knowledge positions you for success in environments that prioritize innovation, efficiency, and strategic thinking over relentless work hours and client demands. By capitalizing on your strengths and pursuing a career path aligned with your interests and well-being, you can achieve professional fulfillment without sacrificing your health and happiness.

Ans: No, the bank is likely not right in this case. Here's why:

• Form 15G validity: A valid Form 15G submitted before April 1, 2023 is applicable for the entire financial year 2023-24 (assessment year 2024-25). This means if your income falls under the non-taxable category, the bank shouldn't deduct TDS on your FD interest for the entire year.
• TDS exemption limit: The current exemption limit for TDS on FD interest is Rs 40,000 for individuals below 60 years old, and Rs 50,000 for senior citizens (above 60 years old). There's no limit of Rs 5 lakh for TDS deduction on FD interest.

Here's what you can do:

• Reach out to your bank: Inform them that you submitted a valid Form 15G and your income falls under the non-taxable category. You can clarify the exemption limit and point out the mistake.
• Request rectification: Ask the bank to rectify the error and reverse the TDS deducted on your FD interest from October 2023 onwards.
• Seek professional help: If the bank doesn't resolve the issue, consider seeking help from a tax consultant or financial advisor. They can guide you further on how to claim a refund for the deducted TDS.

Additional points to consider:

• Ensure you have a copy of the Form 15G submission acknowledgement for your records.
• Keep a record of any communication with the bank regarding the TDS deduction.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue with the bank and avoid unnecessary TDS deduction on your FD interest.

Ans: Hi,
have you appeared for any engineering entrance? that's the only way to get admission in engineering colleges. or else you will have to repeat clat & engg entrances next year.

Ans: Dear Anonymous,

It's a really good decision. There is nothing wrong with focusing on your career first and marriage after. In fact, it is best to have financial independence before marriage. And though I understand your parents' concerns, 28 is absolutely not too late to get married. There is no right time frame to get married. There's only the right mindset. If you are not ready for it, you should not rush into it.
Your parents have your best intention in mind, let's remember that first. But that does not mean you have to give in to their ideas. Try to make them understand the importance of having a career of your own and the importance of being financially independent. I'm sure with time they will come around.

Best Wishes.