Jugaad: A Sticky Solution that we can Unstick
In India, jugaad is like a magic word—it is all about finding quick solutions to problems, often with limited resources. In one of the dinner meetings which I attended; the entire table comprising of senior corporate executives was unanimous that jugaad was the pride of India and praised it in unison.
It is indeed a superpower that helps fix things on the fly, whether it's repairing a broken-down car or coming up with creative solutions to everyday challenges.
At first glance, jugaad seems like a lifesaver, especially when
you are stranded on the side of the road with a flat tyre. But when we look
closer, we realise it is a double-edged sword. It is great for those emergency
situations, but when it becomes the norm, it can lead to some serious problems.
Take governance, for example. Instead of investing in long-term
solutions, governments sometimes resort to jugaad to address issues like
infrastructure or welfare. They patch up potholes with makeshift materials or launch welfare schemes without proper planning. It is like putting a Band-Aid on a broken bone—it might provide temporary relief, but it does not fix the underlying problem.
The trouble is, when people get used to jugaad, they start to
accept mediocrity. They lower their expectations and settle for quick fixes
instead of demanding better quality and reliability. It is like saying,
"This is good enough," even when it is not.
And it is not just individuals and governments—it seems to have seeped
into our culture. When jugaad becomes the norm, it erodes trust in institutions and perpetuate a culture of shortcuts and compromises. It is like saying, "It's okay to cut corners".
The good news is that we can break free from Jugaad's sticky fingers! By
demanding better from ourselves and our leaders, we can push for real
solutions, not just quick fixes. Because in the end, I think, only that is what will truly make a difference.
