India, Oct. 8 -- During its early years, in the 1950s, the Supreme Court of India convened infrequently - sitting only a few days annually and for just a few hours at a time. A modest start for what would become the nation's highest judicial authority.

Much has changed since then. Now the Court functions for a minimum of seven hours a day for more than 190 days in a year. Saturdays too, and special benches during court vacations. This demanding schedule has shrunk the time needed for intellectual resuscitation, which is indispensable for all officers of the court. And judges need it the most.

Recently, Sanjeev Sanyal, member, Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, sparked debate by suggesting that the judiciary is "the single ...