“ Real and Present “ Danger : at Maha Kumbh

 

Context : 

Brands lining up for Rs 3,000 cr splash at Maha Kumbh  … Eco Times ……. 04 Dec 2024

Extract :

( A )  PILGRIMS :

Ø  Maha Kumbh 2013 …….. 120 Million

Ø  Kumbh …………………………240 Million

Ø  Maha Kumbh………………  400 Million ( Expected )

 

( B ) TOTAL REVENUES GENERATED BY UP GOVT

Ø  Maha Kumbh 2013 …………. Rs  12,000  Crore

Ø  Kumbh  2019 …………………   Rs  !.2 Lakh Crore

 

( C )  WHAT IS ON OFFER :

Ø  Interactive Booths

Ø  VR Zones

Ø  Lounges

Ø  Changing Rooms

Ø  Pampering Zones

Ø  Immunity Shots

Ø  Baby Care Rooms

Ø  145,000  Toilets

 

( D )   AMENITIES :

“ Parking solutions provider, Park+ has come onboard to provide automated parking solutions while tie-ups for environment-friendly TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS,  with electric three wheeler service providers are in the works. … We are expecting up to 25 lakh vehicles during the festival. We will provide parking solutions linked to FasTag , “ said Amit Lakhotia, CEO , Park+.

There are several ongoing discussions to integrate intra-city transport on our App for the Mela.

 

My  Take :

 

While I think UP government is doing a marvelous job of preparing for Maha Kumbh ,  it is highly important to “ imagine / visualize / predict “ many , apparently unlikely SCENARIOS using AI ( Artificial Intelligence ) , using following logic :

Ø  “ IF … abc … happens , THEN ,  do … xyz “

Remember the edict >  If something CAN go wrong, it WILL go wrong  !

A number of times in the past , during various RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS in India, there have been stampedes , resulting in hundreds of deaths

With visit by 400 million persons  ( many lakhs on a single day ), if there is a stampede, that could result in THOUSANDS of people dying . At all cost , this must be avoided

In my following email ( to UP Chief Minister +  Kumbh Organizing Authority ), I had suggested , very SPECIFIC , three arrangements which would make it IMPOSSIBLE for visitors to move around randomly, as they wish ( eg:  trying to overtake those in front of them, even in a queue :

Ø  THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH…………………………… 26 Aug 2018

 

 

 

My above-mentioned suggestions are similar to the introduction of POD TAXIS , planned to be introduced in Mumbai by 2027 , as shown in the following picture which appeared in Times Of India ( 03 Dec 2024 ):

In essence , at Maha Kumbh 2024 , what we need are several LOOPS of POD TAXIS ( without roof-top ) and GANGA-JAL SPRINKLERS , on both sides

Enable 400 million pilgrims to wash away their past KARMAS with GANGA-JAL , but WITHOUT getting onto their feet !

 

With regards,

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  04 Dec 2024  

PM Internship Scheme

 

PM Internship Scheme to go live on Thursday - The Hindu BusinessLine

 

Extract from the article:

 

The Prime Minister's Internship Scheme is set to launch, aiming to provide opportunities for one crore youth over five years. As part of the larger plan to support the youth of India, this scheme opens doors for engagement with the corporate sector and aims to enhance skill development and job readiness among the youth population.

 

The initiative is a significant step towards bridging the gap between academic learning and practical workplace experience, signaling a strategic approach to empower India's future workforce.

 

The scheme's focus on engaging with the corporate sector is crucial in fostering industry-academia collaborations and preparing young individuals for the competitive job market.

 

By offering internships and skill development opportunities, the program not only benefits the youth by enhancing their employability but also adds value to the corporate sector by tapping into fresh talent and diverse perspectives.

 

This initiative reflects a proactive approach by the government to address the evolving needs of the youth and align them with industry requirements.

 

My Take:

 

MSME : Need Mentoring by Large Companies…..06/07/2022

 

The blog post emphasizes the importance of mentoring for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by large companies, highlighting the role of industry support in fostering innovation and growth. The relevance of this discussion to the current topic lies in the parallel drawn between the need for mentorship in the MSME sector and the opportunity presented by the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme for youth engagement with the corporate sector. Just as mentoring enhances MSME performance and competitiveness, internships under the new scheme can equip youth with practical skills and industry exposure, preparing them for future employment opportunities.

 

In this blog post, the focus on the 'Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance' (RAMP) scheme inaugurated by PM Modi underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the capabilities of MSMEs through targeted initiatives.

 

This aligns with the current discourse around the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme, which aims to empower youth through skill development and industry engagement.

 

The correlation between these two initiatives highlights a comprehensive approach towards bridging the gap between education and employment, ensuring that young individuals are equipped with the necessary tools and experiences to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

 

Call to Action:

 

To the corporate sector and large companies mentioned in the article, I urge you to actively participate in the Prime Minister's Internship Scheme by offering meaningful internship opportunities to the youth.

 

Your engagement can play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce of India, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

 

By investing in the development of young talent, you not only contribute to their growth but also foster innovation and competitiveness within your own organizations. Embrace this opportunity to make a difference and drive positive change in the Indian workforce landscape.

 

With regards, 

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

NITI Aayog to assign accountability

 

Article link: NITI Aayog to assign accountability to achieve Net Zero by 2070

 

Extract from the article:

 

The NITI Aayog has announced plans to assign accountability to relevant agencies to achieve Net Zero by 2070, with a target to achieve it by 2050.

 

The agency aims to hold various entities and organizations accountable to drive efforts towards this ambitious goal. Noteworthy in this initiative is the focus on smaller entities like MSMEs to ensure they contribute effectively to the overall objective.

 

The move signifies a substantial shift in environmental policy dynamics, emphasizing the importance of diverse stakeholders in achieving sustainable outcomes.

 

My Take:

 

Mitra Maharashtra Institution for Monitoring Actual Achievements

 

"In my earlier blog from 2023, I highlighted the necessity for agencies to be identified for monitoring actual achievements towards set targets. NITI Aayog's current strategy aligns with this concept, emphasizing accountability and transparency in achieving significant milestones.

 

By granting agencies free access to government records and making action plans integral to ministry budgets, a structured approach is established, critical for ensuring progress towards Net Zero goals."

 

"A continuous theme in my blogs has been the importance of monitoring actual achievements and the need for clear action plans integrated into ministry budgets.

 

The NITI Aayog's renewed focus on accountability echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for agencies to publish their findings promptly. This approach enhances transparency and fosters a culture of responsibility among stakeholders, crucial for long-term sustainability goals like achieving Net Zero emissions."

 

Call to Action:

 

To NITI Aayog and relevant agencies involved in the Net Zero initiative: Embrace transparency, accountability, and collaboration in your efforts towards achieving Net Zero by 2070.

 

Establish clear mechanisms for monitoring progress and ensure that all stakeholders are actively engaged in driving sustainable outcomes.

 

Let's work together to create a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.

---

With regards, 

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

TV : Soon on your AR/VR eye-glasses ? You bet

 

 

Article link:

Read the full article here

Extract from the article:

In the article, Uday Shankar emphasizes that the television industry is far from dead and highlights the immense growth potential of streaming services.

 

He mentions that JioStar, with its massive scale, has the capability to spearhead impactful change in the media and entertainment sector.

 

Shankar's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of media consumption and the need for industry players to adapt to the growing influence of streaming platforms.

 

 

The shift towards digital platforms and the rise of streaming services have reshaped the traditional TV industry.

 

Shankar's perspective underscores the importance of embracing advancements in technology and catering to changing consumer preferences.

 

He points out that players like JioStar have the potential to lead the way in transforming the dynamics of the media and entertainment sector through innovative strategies and leveraging their scale effectively.

 

My Take:

VERY IMPRESSED !

 

"Reflecting on my past blog where I discussed the potential of JioGigaFibre, the current focus on streaming services and the impact of JioStar doesn't come as a surprise. Predicting the shift towards digital platforms and the need for high-speed internet services was a step towards understanding the evolving media landscape. Uday Shankar's emphasis on the growth potential of streaming aligns with the forward-thinking approach taken in my previous blog."

 

Akash reach for ground

 

"In my blog from four years ago, I highlighted the importance of introducing innovative products in the market, similar to what Uday Shankar mentions about JioStar bringing impactful change. Akash Ambani's potential to disrupt the market resonates with the current narrative of leveraging scale for transformation. The call to introduce a Universal Set-Top Box reflects the ongoing need for industry players to adapt to changing consumer demands and technological advancements."

 

Call to Action:

To Uday Shankar and industry leaders in the media and entertainment sector: Embrace the evolving landscape of streaming services and digital platforms by fostering innovation and adapting to changing consumer behaviors. Focus on leveraging scale and technology to lead impactful change and drive growth in the industry.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.hemenParekh.ai  /  03 Dec 2024

From Policy to Practice : a Hurdle Race

 

Article link:

Auto dealers urge State governments to implement scrappage policy

---

Extract from the article:

 

In a move to promote the scrappage policy, auto dealers are pressuring State governments to act swiftly.

 

The State government has advised auto manufacturers to provide a 5% discount on new vehicles and also offer a 5% discount on old vehicles.

 

This initiative aims to boost the vehicle market by encouraging the scrapping of old vehicles and promoting the purchase of new ones. However, financial markets such as Nifty 50, BSE Sensex, and Gold & Silver seem to have reacted negatively to this development.

 

This push for a scrappage policy signifies a step towards a more sustainable and efficient transportation system. It also highlights the collaboration between government bodies, auto manufacturers, and dealers to address environmental concerns and stimulate economic growth within the automotive sector.

 

My Take:

Nitinbhai - Vehicle Manufacturers Cannot Ignore Scrappage Advice

 

"Looking back at my blog post from March 2021, where I discussed the challenges of scrapping 24 million vehicles in 24 months, it is evident that the advice given to vehicle manufacturers regarding offering discounts on new vehicles based on scrap certificates is now becoming a reality.

 

As the industry moves towards implementing these recommendations by April 2022, my foresight into the consequences of such policies is validated."

 

Vehicle Scrapping: From Policy to Practice

 

"In my blog post from April 2021, I emphasized the potential transformation of vehicle scrapping into a lucrative business opportunity for dealers and automakers.

 

The current push by State governments for a scrappage policy, including incentives like road tax rebates and registration fee waivers, aligns perfectly with the predictions I made earlier.

 

This development underscores the evolving dynamics within the automotive industry towards a more sustainable and economically viable future."

-

Call to Action:

 

To the State governments and auto manufacturers mentioned in the article, I urge a proactive approach in swiftly implementing the scrappage policy with comprehensive incentives to encourage the transition towards newer and more environmentally friendly vehicles.

 

Collaboration and timely action are crucial in driving this initiative forward for the benefit of both the industry and the society.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  03 Dec 2024

Right to Leave this ( horrible ? ) World ?

 

Article link:     Click here to read the article

Extract from the article:

Britain's parliament has given initial approval to the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) bill, allowing mentally competent adults the choice of assisted dying.

 

The historic vote saw 330 lawmakers supporting the bill, making it the first time in a decade that such a measure has been endorsed by the British parliament.

 

This decision marks a significant step in the ongoing debate around end-of-life choices, with proponents arguing for individual autonomy in making such critical decisions.

 

The bill's approval highlights the changing attitudes towards assisted dying and underscores the importance of considering terminally ill individuals' right to a dignified end-of-life option.

 

 While the bill still faces further scrutiny and debate in the legislative process, this initial vote sets the tone for a potentially transformative shift in how the UK approaches end-of-life care and the rights of terminally ill individuals to make decisions about their own bodies.

 

My Take:

FROM THE VIEW ROOM

 

"In my blog post from August 2017, titled 'FROM THE VIEW ROOM,' I delved into the evolving perceptions around end-of-life choices and the delicate balance between medical ethics and individual preferences.

 

The recent approval of the assisted dying bill in the British parliament echoes the sentiments I expressed years ago.

 

It's heartening to see society progress towards recognizing and respecting individuals' autonomy in critical decisions concerning their own lives."

 

Thanks Shri Kiran Rijiju

 

"In my blog article dated October 2022, 'Thanks Shri Kiran Rijiju,' I emphasized the importance of democratic decision-making processes and open debates in political settings.

The British parliament's approach to the assisted dying bill reflects the essence of inclusive discussions and the amplification of diverse voices within the legislative framework.

 

It's crucial for policymakers to listen to all perspectives, as demonstrated by the call for a special session and ample debate time mentioned in my blog."

Call to Action:

 

To the Members of the British Parliament:

 

Embrace the momentum created by the initial approval of the assisted dying bill and continue to engage in constructive dialogues and thorough debates to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the implications and nuances of such legislation.

 

Uphold the values of individual autonomy and compassion in shaping end-of-life policies for the betterment of society.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-teacher.in

 

www.Hemenparekh.ai /  03 Dec 2024

Like every Work-place, Lok Sabha must work 250 days

 

 

Article Link:   Click Here

 

Extract from the Article: 

The current parliamentary session is characterized by a persistent deadlock, leading to a lack of legislative progress.

 

The Minister of Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, disclosed the legislative agenda for the upcoming week in Lok Sabha. Shockingly, during the initial week of the winter session, the Lok Sabha only utilized 3% of its allocated time, indicating a significant inefficiency in conducting legislative affairs.

 

The situation highlights a critical issue where the parliament's functioning is compromised, hindering the crucial process of lawmaking and governance.

 

The inadequate utilization of time raises concerns about the effectiveness of parliamentary sessions and the ability of legislators to fulfill their responsibilities. This deadlock can have far-reaching consequences on policymaking and addressing pressing issues that require legislative intervention.

 

 

My Take:

 200 Hours for 67 Bills

 

"In my blog from 2011, I discussed the challenges of limited time for discussing numerous bills in the Indian Parliament.

 

The current scenario of low parliamentary efficiency, as seen from the recent article, reinforces the importance of optimizing the time available for legislative debates.

 

My proposal to allocate specific time slots for each bill could enhance constructive discussions and decision-making."

 

 

A Winter of Discontent

 

"Reflecting on the unproductive winter session described in my blog, the recurring theme of wasted time and disruptive behavior among parliamentarians seems to persist.

 

It is crucial to address the root cause of such inefficiencies and disruptive conduct to ensure meaningful legislative outcomes. Implementing reforms to promote decorum and effective participation in parliamentary proceedings is essential to avoid repeating past failures."

 

 

LS Speaker Om Birla would like this

 

"In my recent blog, I proposed a radical shift towards virtual parliamentary sessions to manage unruly behavior and improve the efficiency of legislative functions.

 

The idea of virtual sessions, with mechanisms to regulate member conduct remotely, could be a viable solution to prevent disruptions and ensure a more productive parliamentary environment.

 

Embracing innovative approaches like virtual sessions may offer a way forward to break the deadlock impeding legislative work."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Members of Parliament:

 

 Embrace technological solutions like virtual parliamentary sessions to enhance efficiency and decorum in legislative proceedings.

 

Prioritize constructive debates and decision-making to fulfill your duty towards the citizens and effectively address pressing issues. It's time to adapt to modern methods to break the deadlock and drive meaningful legislative outcomes.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai / 03 Dec 2024

VVPAT : We can get rid of

 

 

Article link:

Click here to read the full article

Extract from the article:

The Election Commission (EC) has declared that the counting of Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slips will only happen if ordered by the court. In response to this decision, the Shiv Sena (UBT) is considering challenging this ruling in the Supreme Court. Candidates have the opportunity to contest the counting process during the election under the condition that they or their representative are present during the process.

This move by the EC has sparked discussions and potential legal actions, especially regarding the transparency and integrity of the election process. The stance taken by the EC and the reactions it has stirred indicate deep-rooted concerns within the political landscape regarding the nomination dynamics.

 

My Take:

Dear Supreme Court, If You Cannot Order...

 

The foresight displayed in suggesting the use of VVPAT in elections years ago now seems like a poignant reminder of the current scenario.

 

As I reflect on the relevance of these suggestions to the ongoing discussions around VVPAT slip counting, it becomes evident that proactive measures proposed in the past could have preempted the current challenges faced by the EC and political parties.

 

 The need for a robust and transparent electoral process, as highlighted in this blog, resonates strongly with the current demands for greater accountability and verification mechanisms in the election process.

 

Saluting Supreme Solution from SC

 

The emphasis placed on the accuracy and efficiency of machine-operated processes without human intervention, as discussed in this blog, aligns with the current debates surrounding the VVPAT verification procedures.

 

The call for technological advancements in ensuring electoral integrity and the acknowledgment of the practical limitations of manual processes mirror the ongoing dialogue within the political sphere.

 

The Supreme Court's role in shaping the future of electoral practices, as highlighted in this blog, gains significance in light of the recent developments pertaining to VVPAT slip counting.

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Election Commission and the Supreme Court, I urge a collaborative approach in addressing the concerns raised regarding the counting of VVPAT slips.

 

Embracing technological innovations and ensuring transparent electoral processes should be at the forefront of decision-making to foster trust and confidence in the democratic system.

 

It is crucial to prioritize the integrity of the electoral process to uphold the democratic values that form the foundation of our nation.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  / 03 Dec 2024

Time and Tide , wait for no man

 

Article link:

India to Expand EV Manufacturing Incentives after Tesla Disappointment, Source Says

 

Extract from the article:

India's EV policy was initially crafted to attract Tesla into the market, but the renowned U.S. automaker withdrew from the plan earlier this year. The government aims to pivot this policy towards enticing other major players like Toyota and Hyundai to invest in the Indian electric vehicle sector. The policy is still undergoing refinement, with a focus on evaluating investments in electric vehicles at existing manufacturing plants.

 

My Take:

Now It Is ChatGPT vs. YouChat

 

"Reflecting on my previous blog where I discussed policies to boost electric vehicle adoption and production, it aligns perfectly with the current scenario in India. The emphasis on financial incentives, charging infrastructure, and favorable regulations mirrors the ongoing EV policy developments."

 

Elon Musk: We Offer Green Carpet

 

"In my earlier piece, I highlighted India's challenges with EV infrastructure and policy compared to China. The article mentioned the lack of a comprehensive EV policy in India, which seems to be a pressing issue given the recent setbacks with Tesla. The need for a robust policy framework is crucial for attracting and retaining major EV players."

---

Call to Action:

 

To the Indian Government and policymakers, it's time to reassess and accelerate the formulation of a robust and competitive EV policy framework. Encouraging investments, fostering infrastructure development, and offering attractive incentives are vital steps in attracting and retaining global EV giants like Tesla while stimulating the growth of the domestic electric vehicle industry.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai / 03 Dec 2024

Regulating AI = Regulating Climate

 

 

Article Link:

 

NASSCOM Launches Developers Playbook to Champion Responsible AI in India

 

Extract from the Article:

 

The playbook was introduced at the inaugural Confluence for Responsible Intelligence (RICON) in New Delhi.

 

It offers a voluntary framework for developers to methodically recognize and address potential risks linked with the commercial utilization of AI in India.

 

This initiative underscores the importance of ensuring responsible AI development and deployment while highlighting the necessity for systematic risk assessment and mitigation strategies in the Indian AI landscape.

 

 

 

My Take:

 

A few years back, in my blog titled "United Nations Agency for Regulating AI," I emphasized the significance of regulating AI development to safeguard individual and societal rights.

 

The comparison detailed in the blog between BARD and ChatGPT frameworks mirrors the current discourse on the structure and principles necessary for responsible AI governance.

 

Similarly, in another blog post titled "UN Agency for AI Arriving as Envisaged,"

 

I proposed a risk-based regulatory approach to AI governance, drawing parallels to the current efforts like the US National AI Initiative. The establishment of a National AI Advisory Committee echoes the need for multi-stakeholder involvement, akin to the frameworks discussed in the context of India's AI ethics bill.

 

 

Call to Action:

 

To the developers and stakeholders engaging with AI in India, I urge you to delve into the playbook introduced by NASSCOM.

 

Embrace the framework it offers to proactively address risks and ensure responsible AI practices. Let's collectively champion ethical AI development for the betterment of society.

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  03 Dec 2024