Model Answer:

Introduction:

• The above statement holds a lot of importance especially for a rank and status oriented society like India. It implies that the nature of the work is secondary. What holds primacy is how it is performed. It also talks of professionalism and how it is the need of the hour if we have to grow as a country. Our Hindu tradition also calls for following one’s Dharma which is nothing but doing complete justice with one’s duties.
• As an example, A politician engaging in corrupt practices should be criticised and a security guard doing his duty well should be honoured.

Main Body:

• What we witness is exactly the opposite. People in positions of power, whose nature of work involves dealing with the government or people from high profile institutions working in the corporate are always held in high regards regardless of the work they do and the manner in which they perform. We view them as successful people who create a difference.
• This has led to many ambiguities and perpetuating inequalities.
• First, not appreciating quality and professionalism is very discouraging for the ones working hard. It disincentives them from putting in more efforts. Moreover creates jealousy and hatred impacting the social fabric.
• Second, we see CEOs of many companies extract exponentially large paychecks with no real work raising ethical questions on the entire capitalist system.
• Third, we like to negotiate with the roadside stall or sabjiwalas but pay high prices when it comes to brands. The power asymmetry comes into the picture.

Conclusion:

• All this will change only when our attitude towards what we consider respectable changes. We should work on changing the established norms of respecting someone not by the position they hold, the nature of work they do but instead value those who perform better.