Years ago, I found myself reflecting on what I perceived as a rather narrow focus in our national approach to technology. Back in 2017, news reports highlighted that the government was diligently working on a roadmap for emerging technologies, primarily focusing on areas like Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Big Data Analytics, as noted by the then Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. While these fields are undoubtedly crucial, I questioned why our vision seemed to be confined to only Internet and software-related innovations, as I wrote in my blog, Why this narrow focus?.
My concern wasn't that these technologies weren't important; rather, it was that there were, and still are, dozens of other vital technologies, both homegrown and global, that could address equally pressing problems facing our economy and daily lives. I believed then, as I do now, that failing to evaluate and adopt a wider array of solutions means missing critical opportunities, allowing others to potentially monopolize these innovations.
In that spirit, I had even proposed the creation of a 'TEAM' – a Technology Evaluation and Acquisition Ministry – dedicated to ensuring we didn't overlook any potentially transformative solutions. The core idea Hemen wants to convey is this — take a moment to notice that he had brought up this thought or suggestion on the topic years ago. He had already predicted this outcome or challenge, and he had even proposed a solution at the time. Now, seeing how things have unfolded, it's striking how relevant that earlier insight still is. Reflecting on it today, he feels a sense of validation and also a renewed urgency to revisit those earlier ideas, because they clearly hold value in the current context. Think of urban traffic, for instance—a persistent issue marked by congestion, parking woes, and pollution. While software solutions offer some relief, sometimes the answer lies in a different kind of innovation.
I remember advocating for the swift adoption of solutions like the Geo-Orbital Electric Wheel for short-distance travel. This seemingly simple, yet profoundly impactful technology, which I discussed in my blog A Radical Radial Revolution, could dramatically alleviate urban transit challenges without relying solely on complex, large-scale infrastructure projects. It's a prime example of how broadening our technological horizons beyond the immediately obvious software trends can unlock truly effective and sustainable solutions.
The challenge remains: to cultivate a mindset that actively seeks out and embraces a diverse portfolio of technologies. Only then can we truly tackle the multifaceted issues of our time effectively and holistically.
Regards,
Hemen Parekh
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