Letters: A competent workforce

This refers to the interview "Our HR system doesn't depend on low-cost casual workers" with G V Prasad, CEO of Dr Reddy's Laboratories, (July 4). I agree with Prasad that a sound industry depends on staff capability and competence. A heavy initial capital outlay by way of labour resource development is extremely necessary for future returns. It projects the image of the company and promotes its products. Unfortunately, most of our industry looks only towards short-term returns and ignores the investment in quality infrastructure required for long-term survival in a competitive market. A company can only be as important as its workforce that connects its products to a demanding consumer environment. Casual labour is only a temporary revenue gain and creates an indifferent environment, apart from the need for frequent supervision. Casual labour should be restricted and utilised only in unavoidable circumstances.

C Gopinath Nair Bangalore

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