How To

How to apply for an Indian Passport

2009-03-26T02:42:00.000-07:00

Passport is a document issued by a country to a citizen allowing that person to travel abroad and re-enter the home country. Moreover, it is a very important document for a person as it is the biggest proof of your identity. All the citizens of India have the right to own a passport. In this age of opportunities, the sooner each of us claims it, the better.

The whole process requires some formalities to be done and it takes around 45 days to get a passport. To get it for the first time, you have to follow certain steps to obtain a passport.

Passport application form: The first step to obtain a passport is to get an application form from the passport office itself. Now for the convenience of the people in India, local head offices of a city or their designated outlets also provide you the form. You can also download the form from the Central Passport Organization’s website at www.passport.nic.in or apply for Passport through Online Registration. Remember to take printouts of the application form once you register online. If you face any problem related to online registration, you can produce the printouts as proof.
Filling the form: Since the passport form is machine readable, you need to fill the form with utmost care. Follow the instructions given in the form itself.

Use back or blue ball-point pen only.
Fill in all the information legibly in capital letters only.
While filling in the boxes, leave one box blank once you complete a word.
Remember not to touch the boundaries of the box when you write.
Paste the passport size photographs at the mentioned boxes. You need at least six photographs to be pasted.
Do not forget to put signature and thumb impression at the specified box. Illiterate people should only put their thumb impression in that box.
Incomplete forms are rejected so ensure that you fill the form completely.
Avoid overwriting and mistakes.

Documents required: You have to submit all the self-attested Photostat copies of the original documents along with a DD bearing certain amount of fees. Besides all the educational certificates, you have to submit the proofs of residence and date of birth. However, you need to show all the original documents at the time when you submit the passport application form.
Check list: To confirm what documents are required at the time of submission, you must refer to the check list provided at the end of the form.
Submit the form: the duly filled in application forms can be submitted at

· The passport office counter

· The Speed post centers

· District passport cells

· Designated passport outlets

For online registration, you have to submit the printouts of the application form with the other documents at the respective passport office. It is recommended to submit your passport form personally or through a person whom you authorize. You can also send it through a registered post.

Applying for the urgent passport:

Generally it requires around 45 days getting a passport, but if you need an urgent passport then you must refer to the Talkaal Scheme as mentioned on the website

How to apply for a passport for minor(s) in India

2009-03-26T02:15:00.000-07:00

It is better to apply for the passport of your kid as early as you can. Many times it happens that you are asked to move to other country at a very short notice. Moreover, in some cases, a number of foreign Diplomatic Missions are refusing to grant visas if minor's name is included in the parents' passport. So, it is better you get your kid’s passport made as early as possible.

Most of the formalities are the same like adults. You need to fill a fresh application form and attach the proofs with the form. Before you apply for a passport of your kid, ensure the following:

You must have seven identical black and white photographs of your kid which will be pasted on the boxes provided in the form. Read carefully before pasting the photos as at some boxes you have to paste unsigned photos only.
If the child can not put her/his signature, then you have to take the thumb impression.
Besides proofs of residence and DOB, you have to attach a DD for a prescribed amount, payable to the regional passport office or its designated center.
Two self-attested copies of the parents’ passport are required to attach with the minor’s application form. If neither of the parents has a passport, then you have to produce an affidavit from both the parents. (Follow the specimen given at Annexure 'D' of the passport form).
If any of the parents has a passport then, you need to attach the photocopy of the same and for the other one, produce affidavit. The specimen is given in the end of the form.
To get an ECNR (emigration check not required) endorsement on the passport of a kid, either of the parents needs to present two self-attested photocopies of first four pages and last four pages of passport.
If the parents are not the legal guardians of a child, then they must produce an affidavit by the legal guardian.
However, an affidavit is needed if they parents are separated but not formally divorced or a single parent.
If the parents of a child are residing outside India, then a sworn affidavit, duly attested by an Indian embassy/consulate is required at the time of submitting the form.
To issue a passport for a minor, it is required to get the consent or signature of the parents. If only one of the parents is available then he/she can sign the form and attach the sworn affidavit. The specimen of the affidavit should be based on the specimen provided in the form itself.

Besides, there will be police verification and other formalities before you get your child’s passport in your hand.

Find a life partner | How to find a suitable bride/groom

2009-03-16T05:14:00.000-07:00

Marriages are said to be made in heaven; but once a boy or girl reaches the marriageable age the parents or the children themselves look for someone with whom they can share their life. Marriage is a long journey where a couple faces many ups and downs and grows together. To lead a happy and satisfied married life, there are many ways to find a suitable life-partner.

Through family friends or relatives: An age old way, but many people even today depend on their friends and relatives to find a good match for their children. Getting proposal through friends or family is rather safe because you most likely know the family background and nature of its members.

Place an advertisement in newspaper: Advertising in different newspapers are very cheap, easy and successful way to find a suitable match for a boy or girl. Once a proposal suits, the concerned families meet to proceed further.

Enroll at a Marriage Bureau: Marriage bureau have verified details of the eligible bachelors. Get yourself enrolled at such a bureau to find a perfect match.

Register on matrimonial site: Internet revolution has immensely changed people’s life and marriages are no exception. Websites like www.shadi.com , www.jeevansathi.com provide innumerable data of eligible bachelors whom you can select as per your priority. These websites are popular among those who have specific conditions like caste and religion for marriage. Just feed the form online mentioning your preference and you will get loads of proposals matching to your choice.

Internet chatting: Online chatting is a platform where you can have interaction with many people at a time. This is the most modern way to find a suitable bride or groom but in many cases it turns out to be quite risky also.

Whatever way you choose to find the life-partner, but ensure to know the details of the boy or girl in question. It is the matter of whole life and a wrong decision can ruin the entire life of many people.

How to dress for a Corporate party | Corporate Party Etiquette

2009-02-12T22:03:00.000-08:00

Dressing for a corporate party may be a challenging task for first you have to check the venue and the theme. Whatever is the theme, you have to carry that in your dressing while being decent and professional.

Clothes come first:

Make sure whatever you wear should be ironed well. However, T-shirts are not meant for corporate party. While men can wear tie (if they feel comfortable) women can have a scarf around their neck. If wearing a traditional dress, remember not to wear too heavy, gaudy or glittering dress.

Do not wear any revealing kind of dress.

Your dress should be dignified and elegant. If it is a theme party organized at a vacation trip to an island then you can add color and other element of fun in your party attire. Do not ignore your undergarments as they give a base to your outer clothing.

Put a little Make-up:

While getting ready for a corporate party, wear a light make-up. Leave sparkles and glitters for other occasions. Set your hair neatly so that they do not trouble you. Lastly, spray a refreshing deodorant or a light perfume.

Jewelry and accessories:

An integral part of your dressing, but heavy stuff is not at all meant for a corporate party. Females have many options while males can put on accessories like cufflinks, belt, tie-pin, etc.

Do not neglect your footwear:

Wear well-polished black or brown leather shoes. Females should also select their shoes or sandals carefully.

In the end what matters most is your confidence and attitude. Get ready to hit the scene and fill the atmosphere with your positive presence.

How to brand your product | Branding tips & guidance

2009-02-12T21:50:00.000-08:00

Launching a product for your company is easy but it is rather challenging to popularize it among people. Since your company and its products can never be equivalent, each requires its own brand identity. To brand your product, try these techniques.

Differentiate between your company and the products:

Develop a clear demarcation between your company and the products so that your customers should not get confused over this matter. What you are talking about; whether your company or products, should be very clear while messaging to the public.

Go for a logo which is applicable to multiple media:

Your logo should be such that applies well with the multiple media. Logo must match well with your business cards, letter head and web site. Ask for the help from a professional graphic designer.

Make one brand for one product line:

Do not spread your brand for more than one product or product lines. Instead of going for others, it is better to expand that niche using the same brand equity or else you might spoil your brand.

Pay attention to each customer-facing process:

Apart from quality, branding a product means a total package of things like company, logo, tagline, etc. Ensure about each and every minute detail regarding product, i.e. related e-mails, website, telephone calls, etc. Ensure that right message about brand is being conveyed among people.

Associate your brand with some customer promise:

You must associate your brand with some specific quality that customers experience and get reminded of you when he opts for your brand. Reinforce this customer promise without a fail because consistency is responsible to maintain your brand image.

Though not complicated, branding a product requires attention, thought and expertise. Following an effective brand strategy makes your product stand well against any kind of competition.

How to make a business plan | Create a business plan

2009-02-12T21:39:00.000-08:00

The moment you think of starting a business, the first step is to make a business plan. Whatever is the size of your business, a business plan is important to match the strengths of your business with the available opportunities. A business plan is just like a detailed resume, defining and identifying the goal of your business. Once you thought of a business, make a solid business plan to guide you throughout.

· Though it requires more work than you expect to do, but it is good to have a clear understanding of the proposed business. Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of a business, it becomes easy to set an objective or develop a clear mission.
· Identify your goal and mention it in your business plan so that it reminds you whenever you are going off the track.
· Collect, screen and analyze various information regarding the business environment. Conduct a thorough research on the potential market for your business.
· Work upon the strategy to reach to your customers and arrange for the financial help for your business.
· A balance sheet, an income statement and a cash analysis are very important parts of a business plan as they help in distributing the resources properly and at the same time helping you handle the unforeseen complications of the business
· The business plan must provide specific and organized information about your company; e.g. the way you will repay the borrowed money, should be mentioned in the business plan.

Growing technology and competition together have reduced the stability of the business environment, making it less predictable. Therefore, a business plan is important to make good business decisions to make it flourish.

How to make your mother-in-law happy

2009-01-26T21:53:00.000-08:00

Besides your relationship as husband and wife, marriage gets you into many new relationships. The relationship that you grow with your mother-in-law is important and delicate. Mother is the person responsible for your existence in this world; so you need to know how to make her happy and pleased. If she is satisfied and happy, the entire home will enjoy an excellent atmosphere.

Do not forget her birthday:

Never miss to wish her on her birthday with a meaningful card. She will be more than happy if you are the first to wish her on this day. Gift her with a small token of love.

Take her out:

She will be happy if you can take some time out for her only. Just book a cab and move out with her; no matter what you do-dine, shop or watch a movie together, it will really please her no end.

Enquire about her health:

If your mother-in-law suffers from some ailments; even if not a serious one, remember to enquire her health regularly and remind her to take medicines. Your little concern may not treat her but it will sure make her relaxed and sooth her ache. Remember to check her medicine box and ensure if she needs some medicines.

Book parlour for her:

Make your mother-in-law realize that you care for her by booking an appointment at a parlour. Get her spa, massage or even a hair cut. A slight change in her look will make her feel good and confident.

Make her feel wanted:

Even if it is a small occasion, involve her in your decision and planning. Never make her feel unwanted or neglected.

Although there are no specific way to make her happy, you need to show your warmth when you meet her every time. Try not to do things which she dislikes and give her the due attention. Just simple gestures of love and caring are enough to make her happy.

How to decorate a house

2009-01-26T21:36:00.000-08:00

It is an interesting and exciting project to decorate your home and if done with a little thought, planning and creativity, it can turn out to be a rewarding experience too. Here are some tips that will help to decorate your home and make it a dream home to get appreciation from visitors.

If major changes are to be done then you yourself should have a first-hand experience or go for a good and reliable contractor for this purpose. If not going for any major changes, then you can do it all by yourself.

Change the color of each room depending on the choice of people living in that room; and place the matching furniture in that room. You can also try a combination of two colors to add creativity and fun element in a room. Sometimes, change in color alone brings lot of newness to your home.

Have you ever texture-painting? If not then try it and see the change. Put some good furniture to bring elegance to the room.

Remember to use matching and attractive combination to decorate the room. Keep changing the slipcovers, rugs and table-cloth regularly to give a new look.

Reuse your old lamp-shade by spray-painting it and arranging in a corner or hang it at a suitable place.

Do not forget to do wall with the collection of your happy family pictures. You can make a collage and hang it at a place noticeable to all.

Place some indoor plants for they not look good, they also put you close to nature to make you feel fresh.

To give new look after every now and then; you can interchange the items of decoration from one room to other. Remember, if you have elders in your home; do not make many changes in their things as they sometimes may find it difficult to adjust with new things in their rooms.

Although in the time of economic downturn, it seems quite difficult to decorate your home with your dream thoughts, but it also allows you to put more creativity in your effort. Even a small change makes a huge difference in the look of your home. Just go for it!

Buy Land in India

2008-06-26T23:54:00.000-07:00

Referring / consulting a solicitor is always recommended before you plan the actual process of buying a land. Investing / buying in land being a capital decision you will always have to analyze the authenticity of the land to be purchase. The title clearance is an important check to be made or else it might turn out to be a major hassle going forward. The repercussions of an unclear title would be a problem to things like loan, sale of property, transfer of property and many other subsequent essentials.

Checklist to be followed while buying a land:

Search Report and Title Certificate

This is an essential document to ensure that the property is free from any forms of mortgage, litigation or liabilities which, going forward might be a hindrance for the buyer. The documents should be completely vetted and it is mandatory for builders to attach this document along with the sale agreement.

Sale Deed

This document is transferred from the seller to the buyer. This document would help to determine the specifications on the society, land, builder & the title of the property.

7 / 12 Extract

This document has all the details about the area of the land, date of registration by current owner, survey number, the amount specifications & all the required details. This is issued by the local authorities namely the Tehsildar of the area.

No objection certificate (NOC)

This basically applies while buying a resale flat. This is a consensus from the society stating the title to be clear from the society perspective.
Stamp Duty

The amount of stamp duty varies from state to state. The stamp duty has to be agreed upfront and has to be clearly mentioned in the agreement.

For property under construction

An allotment letter should be demanded with details like agreed price, schedule of construction & payment (in case of building a property on the desired land), penalty details & date of delivery.

Do anything in India

2008-06-25T04:11:00.000-07:00

India is a big country and often people get lost in doing things the right way.

The intend of this piece on the web is to help people guide to do anything & everything in one of the biggest democratic nations in the world, INDIA.

The list of items goes on & on. Below you can find some of the things that might need guidance on:

File tax
Buy Real Estate Property
Travel in Mumbai
Get Graduated
Find travel agents
Find immigration consultants
Find property consultants
Brand your product
Buy a car
Buy land
Get a job
Find a lawyer
Find a accounting consultant
Pursue acting
Find a movie theatre
Find Good Restaurant & more....

Hope this would be useful in your quest to do anything in India.