We have wasted enough years at the receiving end one of the most dreaded bureaucracies in the world. Nobody bothered to listen and the common man had no clue how to get anything done. Till few years back, one felt you have landed in heaven on seeing how things operate in most countries. Even today, the same feelings are expressed when we land in Shanghai, Singapore, Dubai etc.
There is an attitude change thanks to the private initiatives and the feedbacks of people returning from abroad. We tout our hospitality, but it was always found wanting as others practise it naturally. Of course, they are so much better trained. Our customs & immigration officers have to be ambassadors of the country. We have to upgrade the taxi system to international standards. China is training all to beat others for the Olympics this year. They have educated people in many aspects including the most vital part of keeping the cities clean & pollution free.
Our biggest roadblock has been the moral calibre of the politicians & the bureaucracy. I have received the greatest courtsies from them and also the worst service imaginable. My foreign friend still shudders recalling when he landed at Mumabai many years ago. The connecting flight to New Delhi was cancelled and the reply was " Our PM has taken the plane to go abroad, you can ask him". He could not believe the ears and the utter lack of service, as the staff left without bothering to help in anyway.
