Ana Maria Fernandes posted the following comment: The son of a carpenter would learn the trade from his father and when he could not continue with his studies became a carpentar. Sometimes those studying also helped their father at home with carpentar. The cobler's son also learnt the trade of his father and did not feel shy to mend the shoe. Those who have professional trade as cooks, coblers or even shopkeepers do not want their children to continue their trade and so the trade has to be stopped or leased out. Why grumble ? we ourselves are to be blamed.
Marshall Mendonza responded: I am simply aghast reading such views. Do we want to perpetuate casteism and class. Should not our youth aspire for upward mobility by studying and acquiring professional qualifications and skills? Why should a cook or tailor or cobbler or carpenter?s son not study and become a doctor or lawyer or CA or software professional? Society is always in evolution. As people progress and move up the economic and social ladder, those less fortunate move into their place. Over a period of time, if their children get the opportunity to study, they in turn will move up. This is the best way to break down caste and class barriers. Like abroad, we need to have technical and vocational courses for those who are academically challenged so that they are able to stand on their own feet. The only problem in India, unlike e west, is that blue collared jobs are looked down upon. In contrast, in the west, blue collared jobs are among the most well paid jobs and in great demand. I agree with the essence of what Marshall has said. What is needed is that there should be equal opportunities to everyone to do what he/she thinks is best for him/her. So, it is not just a case of a traders family should compulsorily be in the trade for all times to come. I believe, the Supreme Court had said: It is not fair that tribals and the people in un-developed villages should continue in the same condition without ever enjoying the fruits of science and technology for better health and have a higher quality of life style. I do not have the reference to this quote. However, in context of what Marshall has said, this makes a lot of sense. Best regards, U. G. Barad.
