Bharat Ratna - Really a RATNA ?

The reason I chose to write about Bharat Ratna, is simply so that I could express my own opinions on it - I know a lot of people are vouching for the award - There are many who are fighting for their comrades and nominating them for the same. But the question remains - Is it a fool-proof process that is followed in awarding someone the Bharat Ratna ? Is it right to let the Govt alone decide who gets the most prestigious award of the country ?

What is the significance of the Bharat Ratna ? Ratna - stands for a precious stone. A Bharat Ratna, according to me is for someone who has changed the entire Outlook of the Country. A Bharat Ratna recipient, should be someone who has revolutionized the country in ways that will be remembered. It should be for the one who has contributed to the social, economic, and overall advancement of the nation - Think of AryaBhatta - His contributions have made India the leading initiator in the concept of Number systems. Think of Mahatma Gandhi - He's created an identity for India by his simple ideologies on non-violence.

Is Bharat Ratna going into the wrong hands ? Is it being murdered by political chaos? There are increasing concerns that it might land up in wrong hands, as every party would want to launch its candidate for the award. There are people around the country, who believe, the Bharat Ratna should not be for politicians. But why ? If someone like JRD Tata could be awarded a Bharat Ratna for having revolutionized the Production Industry in India, why can't a politician, who has done justice to the country be nominated for the award?

One more concern is about Sachin Tendulkar. Someone who has done a wonderful job in his career and made the nation proud. But can someone like him, who has done nothing other than cricket, be eligible for the award? Isn't it time for him to show us that he owes a lot more to the country. I believe he has a long way to go before he grabs the Ratna. The Bharat Ratna, isn't for someone who has excelled in his field alone. I would prefer if its in the hands of someone who has helped us change the face of the nation for the good.

What about Narayan Murthy? Tata - These are industrialists who have given a boost to India's economy. Its high time we revise the process of conferring the award. I think we must have a diverse group judging every nominee and coming to a consensus on the recipient of the award. The Padmashree awards are not debated, because they are field specific, and given after a thorough consultation. The same kind of process should be followed for the Bharat Ratna. Its high time we solve this issue of how to reach a consensus on the award candidate, than thinking of abolishing the award altogether.