Blog

Monday, 4 September 2023

Congratulations , Angelo George

( CEO – Bisleri / angelo@bisleri.co.in )

For suggesting giving “ Water Green Credit “ to those who save water

Context :

‘Credit’ to water savers ……….. Business Line / 30 Aug 2023

Extract :

India relies heavily on groundwater, which is depleted due to over-extraction for irrigation, industrial and domestic use. Most of groundwater is used for agriculture and the balance for domestic and industrial use.

The nation confronts issues rooted in water-intensive crops, inefficient irrigation methods, leaky water distribution networks, and inadequate wastewater treatment infrastructure. Rapid industrialisation and urbanisation have led to widespread water pollution, contaminating rivers and groundwater, making it unsafe for consumption. Meanwhile, the distribution of water resources remains uneven, with some areas struggling with severe scarcity while others experience surplus.

Against this backdrop, India is looking at a fascinating concept called water green credit. It is designed to promote water conservation, harvesting, and usage efficiency, including wastewater treatment and reuse. Water green credit has the potential to profoundly influence water conservation and sustainable water management.

Optimising consumption

The fundamental idea of water green credit is that every entity consuming water should assume responsibility for optimising consumption and be accountable for restoring the quantity consumed.

Entities falling short of their obligations can then purchase these units for compensation. This market-driven mechanism mirrors the dynamics of carbon credits.

Water green credits emerge as an innovative strategy aimed at incentivising responsible water consumption and restoration. The methodology for generating credits should incorporate thresholds for each activity founded on resource equivalence to maximise its potential. Digital processes could ensure the seamless administration of the programme, encompassing registration, issuance of green credits, and trading.

Embracing the water green credit concept necessitates considering several factors:

The policy framework model should outline qualifying guidelines, criteria and benefits in terms of water green credit units. Rewards for water conservation efforts should vary based on terrain classifications like safe, critical and over-exploited.

The standards for water efficiency should be established across agriculture, industries and domestic use.

Water green credits encourage the adoption of efficient crop varieties, irrigation methods and techniques like drip irrigation, thereby motivating optimal irrigation schedules and soil moisture monitoring.

Implementing rainwater harvesting or restoration of water bodies will replenish the groundwater table.

Benchmarks for water intensity in the industrial sector should be defined, spurring the adoption of water-efficient technologies, closed-loop systems and water reuse practices. The pollution potential of industries should be factored in. Adopting water-efficient technologies and practices would receive impetus through water green credits. Also, the industry should get rewarded for investments to conserve water through check dams, irrigation systems, etc., created for public benefit.

Besides, it is critical to establish water efficiency benchmarks for commercial buildings, hotels, educational institutions, and hospitals. Water-efficient practices like recycled water for cleaning, waterless urinals, and implementing leak detection systems will be encouraged.

Public awareness campaigns regarding water conservation and the benefits of participating in water green credit programmes are essential.

It is time to set standards for water-efficient fixtures and appliances like star ratings of electrical appliances.

Water green credits would encourage the installation of rainwater harvesting and grey-water recycling systems in residential buildings.

Collaboration among government agencies, private entities, NGOs, and institutions will drive the success of water green credits.

My Take :

Dear Shri Angelo ,

As you rightly observed, there is considerable similarity between , conservation of water and conservation of electricity.

BEE ( Bureau of Energy Efficiency ) is responsible for setting “ Efficiency Benchmarks / Thresholds “ for electric devices and appliances

We , urgently need a similar body for Water Usage Efficiency

Let us name it : B E W U C : Bureau of Efficient Water Usage and Conservation

Let B E W U C , bring out specifications for a SMART WATER METER , just like a Smart Electric Meter

Smart Water Meter will continuously monitor the water flowing out of each and every OUTLET – and compare it with the BENCHMARK flow

All water flowing through pipes is “ pumped “ – by a combination of a PUMP and an Electric Motor

Power consumed by the electric motor depends upon the “ pumping capacity “ of the coupled pump

And , through built-in “ Internet connected “ SENSORS , transmit this usage DATA to a Smart Electric Meter

Through “ benchmarks / quotas “ built into the SENSORS , water flow can be regulated by appropriate “ commands “ from Smart Electric Meter

Give Water Green Credit if the ACTUAL flow is less than the BENCHMARK – and DEBIT , if it is more

Details may be worked out as described in my following blog :

Ø Here comes : DEEES of My Dream…………………. 23 Aug 2023

With regards,

Hemen Parekh

www.hemenparekh.ai / 02 Sept 2023

Thank You , Vishal Kapoor ………………………. 15 Aug 2023

A Pre-paid Electricity Meter ? …………………. 18 May 2017

Electrifying : Smartly ……………………………….. 25 Sept 2017

Smart Meter : No Pending Payments ?........ 08 Dec 2017

A Smart Move , Shri Singh ! …………………….. 07 June 2018

Welcome, Prepaid Smart Meters ………………. 25 Sept 2021

The Verdict : A is better than B… …………………..23 Aug 2023

India’s Water ( Di - ) Stress .. ……………………..20 Aug 2023

My past ( 17 ) blogs on WATER SCARCITY ( as on March 2022 ) … 19 Aug 2023

As per my custom , I asked BARD and ChatGPT , their opinion about my suggestion . Here are their replies :

BARD :

I think your extrapolation of earning carbon credits by measuring electricity consumption to measuring water consumption is feasible.

The concept of water green credits is similar to carbon credits in that it incentivizes individuals and organizations to conserve water resources.

By setting benchmarks for water consumption and rewarding those who meet or exceed those benchmarks, water green credits can help to reduce water use and promote water conservation.

The use of smart water meters is essential for implementing a water green credit program.

Smart water meters can track water usage in real time, which allows for accurate measurement of water consumption. They can also be used to set alerts for leaks and other water usage anomalies.

The implementation of a water green credit program would require the cooperation of government agencies, water utilities, and private businesses. However, the potential benefits of such a program are significant. Water green credits could help to reduce water use, improve water quality, and save money.

Here are some of the key factors to consider when implementing a water green credit program:

· Setting benchmarks for water consumption: The benchmarks should be based on the water consumption of similar entities in the same region.

· Rewarding water conservation: The rewards should be meaningful enough to encourage water conservation.

· Monitoring water usage: Smart water meters are essential for accurately monitoring water usage.

· Enforcing compliance: There should be a mechanism for enforcing compliance with the water green credit program.

I believe that a water green credit program is a promising way to promote water conservation and sustainable water management. With careful planning and implementation, such a program could have a significant positive impact on water resources.

Here are some additional thoughts on your blog post:

· I agree that there is a need for a similar body to BEE for water usage efficiency. The BEWUC could set benchmarks for water consumption and promote the use of water-efficient technologies and practices.

· I think the idea of a smart water meter that can monitor water flow and compare it to benchmarks is very promising. This could help to ensure that water is used efficiently and that leaks are detected quickly.

· I also agree that public awareness campaigns are essential for the success of a water green credit program. People need to understand the importance of water conservation and the benefits of participating in such a program.

Overall, I think you have raised some very important points about the potential of water green credits to promote water conservation.

I hope that your blog post will help to raise awareness of this issue and encourage the development of water green credit programs around the world.

ChatGPT :

Your extrapolation of the concept of "Water Green Credits" is an interesting idea that has the potential to address India's water conservation and management challenges.

Just as carbon credits have incentivized efforts to reduce carbon emissions, water green credits could motivate responsible water consumption and restoration.

Here are some comments and considerations on your proposal:

1. Bureau of Efficient Water Usage and Conservation (BEWUC):

Establishing a dedicated body like BEWUC to set efficiency benchmarks for water usage and promote water conservation is a crucial step.

It would provide the necessary regulatory framework for implementing the Water Green Credits system effectively.

2. Smart Water Meters:

The concept of Smart Water Meters, similar to Smart Electric Meters, is essential for accurately measuring water consumption and comparing it against benchmarks.

These meters would enable real-time monitoring and data transmission, allowing for efficient control and management of water usage.

3. Integration with Smart Electric Meters:

Integrating Smart Water Meters with existing Smart Electric Meters is a practical approach to efficiently manage both electricity and water consumption. It would create a holistic approach to resource conservation.

4. Setting Benchmarks and Quotas:

Establishing clear benchmarks and quotas for different sectors, including agriculture, industry, and domestic use, is vital. These benchmarks should be based on factors such as resource equivalence and water efficiency standards. This approach ensures fairness and encourages efficiency improvements across various sectors.

5. Incentives and Rewards:

The idea of providing Water Green Credits to entities that consume water below benchmarks is an excellent incentive. However, it's crucial to determine how these credits can be effectively traded or redeemed. Clear guidelines on the economic aspects of this system are essential.

6. Public Awareness:

As you mentioned, public awareness campaigns are crucial for the success of such programs. Educating individuals and businesses about the benefits of water conservation and participation in Water Green Credit programs is essential for widespread adoption.

7. Collaboration:

Collaboration among government agencies, private entities, NGOs, and institutions is vital, as you rightly pointed out. The success of Water Green Credits will depend on the cooperation and coordination of various stakeholders.

8. Technological Considerations:

Ensuring the security and accuracy of data transmitted by Smart Water Meters is essential. Robust cybersecurity measures and data privacy protections should be integrated into the system.

9. Policy Framework:

Developing a comprehensive policy framework that outlines qualifying guidelines, criteria, and benefits in terms of Water Green Credit units is necessary. The framework should also consider factors such as terrain classifications and the pollution potential of industries.

10. Regulatory Challenges:

Implementing such a system may face regulatory challenges, and it will be important to work closely with government bodies to address legal and regulatory hurdles.

In summary, your proposal for Water Green Credits appears to be a thoughtful and innovative approach to addressing India's water conservation challenges.

Proper planning, collaboration, and the establishment of a regulatory framework will be critical to its successful implementation. Additionally, the integration of technology, public awareness campaigns, and economic incentives are key elements for driving widespread adoption and achieving the desired conservation outcomes.

With regards,

Hemen Parekh

www.hemenparekh.ai / 05 Sept 2023

Sunday, 3 September 2023

One Nation , One Election

Context :

One Nation, One Election: What it means for national politics and voters, what are advantages & challanges?

( ET / 01 Sept 2023 )

Extract :

In an important move that could potentially reshape India's electoral landscape, the Modi-led Union government, has formed a panel headed by former president Ram Nath Kovind to explore the possibility of "one nation, one election".

Assembly elections are scheduled for five states in November-December, followed by Lok Sabha elections in May-June of following year.

The concept of 'One Nation, One Election' centers around the idea of conducting simultaneous elections throughout the country for both Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. This means holding elections for both the Lok Sabha and all state assemblies simultaneously, with voting likely taking place concurrently.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has long advocated for simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections.

At present, elections for state assemblies and the Lok Sabha occur separately – either at the end of a five-year term for the incumbent government or in the event of dissolution due to various factors.

What are the Benefits of Holding Simultaneous Elections

A primary argument for holding joint polls is that it can save considerable amount of money spent on conducting separate polls of state assemblies and Lok Sabha.

As per some reports, a staggering sum of approximately Rs 60,000 crore was spent during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. This figure encompasses expenses incurred by political parties engaged in the electoral process and the Election Commission of India's costs in organising the elections

Administrative expenses:

There are also significant and obvious expenditures associated with repeatedly deploying and transferring security officers.

Because of election duty and related labour, government machinery misses out on their regular obligations during each election. These millions of man-hours are not accounted for in the election budget.

Policy gridlock:

Furthermore, proponents of synchronised elections suggest that administrative efficiency across the nation could improve, as the customary slowdown during polling periods would be minimised.

Routine administrative functions often face disruptions due to election-related duties undertaken by officials.

The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) impacts government functionaries, as no new substantial policy can be declared or implemented after the elections are called.

Continuity in policy implementation between central and state governments is also anticipated, as simultaneous elections could eliminate the need for the Model Code of Conduct, which temporarily halts the launch of new public welfare projects during election periods.

Higher voter turnout:

Simultaneous elections could potentially lead to higher voter turnout, as casting votes would be more convenient for citizens when conducted together.

Challenges and Concerns

However, the prospect of simultaneous elections necessitates constitutional amendments to align state legislative assembly terms with the Lok Sabha's duration. Amendments to the Representation of the People Act and other parliamentary processes would also be essential.

Simultaneous elections would require unilaterally shortening or extending the terms of current legislatures in order to align their election dates with the due date for the rest of the country.

Some argue that imposing simultaneous elections is against the spirit of democracy because it attempts to impose an artificial cycle of elections while limiting voters' options.

Critics, notably regional parties, express reservations about the dominance of national issues overshadowing local concerns during simultaneous elections. They also cite the potential inability to match the election strategies and expenditures of national parties.

Research conducted by the IDFC Institute said that if elections are held at six-month intervals, there's a 77 percent likelihood of voters favoring the same political party or alliance for both state assemblies and the Lok Sabha. This figure drops to 61 percent if elections are held six months apart.

Support and Opposition

The notion of simultaneous elections was commonplace in India until 1967. Although it faded due to early dissolutions of some legislative assemblies and the Lok Sabha, the Election Commission sought its revival in 1983, yet the government at the time dismissed the idea. Subsequent efforts, including those in the 1999 Law Commission report and the 2014 election manifesto of the BJP, have aimed to reintroduce synchronized elections.

Prime Minister Modi revived discussions on the topic in 2016, followed by the Niti Aayog's working paper in the subsequent year. Despite preparedness expressed by the Election Commission, implementing the idea would necessitate constitutional changes and parliamentary decisions, as highlighted by Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra in 2022.

Related Readings :

India's govt contemplates 'One Nation, One Election': Can Modi's ambitious reform be a reality?

One Nation, One Election: Govt could bring bill in special session of Parliament ..

Govt names simultaneous polls panel; Adhir opts out

1 Nation, 1 Poll: Committee examines legal and constitutional challenges and possibilities

My Take :

My 37 blogs on “ One Nation, One Election “(till 02 Sept 2023 )

My 10 YEAR old Proposal :

VotesApp ………. ………………..18 Aug 2013

Extract :

Here is a suggestion to IIT-Bombay, to develop a voting app , to be called VotesApp. Highlights of VotesApp :

Ø An Android app which can be downloaded from Google Play / Android Zoom /

GetJar and the official web site of Election Commission of India

Ø It will be pre-loaded on 220 million Aakash tablets which Govt of India plans to

distribute to students

Ø It will also be pre-loaded on those Smart phones ( to be called, “ Dharati “ ? ),

which Govt of India plans to distribute free to 400 million “ poor “ Indians , before

2014 National elections

Ø All tablet / smart phone manufacturers will be encouraged to pre-load VotesApp

Ø Using this app , a voter can register at Election Commission web site, where

he will enter the same data Which he has submitted for his Aadhar card,

including Aadhar card number ( Unique Identification No )

Ø All of these details will be verified by Aadhar database

Ø Obviously , those who have not obtained their Aadhar card , will not be able to

use VotesApp . They will need to visit nearest polling booth

Ø Upon correct verification , Aadhar Database will permanently link the person’s

Aadhar number with the mobile number from which registration is done, and

issue a Password

An under aged person will not be allowed to register

Ø A person will be able to vote only from that mobile number

Ø After login on first screen, user will be asked to select one option from >

Panchayat Election > Municipal Election > State Assembly Election > Lok-

Sabha Election

Ø Upon selection, user will be presented with the list of candidates contesting , from

which , he can select only one by ticking a checkbox.

There will be also a choice , labeled “ None “

Ø A long press on a candidate’s name will display details of his declared assets as

also his criminal record

Ø After ticking / selecting a candidate, voter will click on “ VOTE “ button,

whereupon his vote gets registered and VotesApp gets inactivated

Ø Once a voter registers on Election Commission web site , he cannot go to a poling

booth and vote physically

Ø In less than one year , Govt of India will recover the cost of 220 million

Aakash tablets and 400 million” Dharati “ smart phones , through

this customized / personalized / shrinking of EVMs ( Electronic Voting

Machines ) to a hand-held device.

And imagine the millions of man-hours saved !

Ø And the beauty is, no one can capture this booth , or conduct exit polls ! What will

“ experts “ discuss on TV channels ?

What next ? Election Commission “licensing “ this App to other countries ?

* hemen parekh ( 18 Dec 2012 )

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Addition on 15 Dec 2015 :

Vote will get recorded only when that Voter takes a Selfie - which will get

matched automatically , with His Aadhar Card photo

===============================================

My Footnote ( dt 04 Sept 2023 ) :

> The news-report cited above mentions election expenses @ Rs 60,000 crore for

2019 Lok Sabha Elections alone . To that , add another Rs 60,000 crore for all the

state elections . That adds up to Rs 120,000 crores

> In my 2013 suggestion , I had suggested Central Government giving away for

FREE , 220 million ( 22 crore ) AKASH TABLETS + 400 million ( 40 crore ) Smart

Phones ( a total of 62 crore devices )

> Reliance Jio just announced launch of its 5G enabled Smart Phone , priced at

Rs 999 ( for ease of calculations , round off to Rs 1000

> That means , with Rs 120,000 crore ( election expenses saved ) , Govt can buy

120 Crore Smart Phones - and give away FREE to each of 90 Crore

voters ( - not necessarily Jio but open tender for all )

> These could be named VotesApp Devices - and cannot be used for any other

normal phone functions ( hard coded only for voting and e-governance Apps ).

> Just before the 5 year voting exercise , its software will get UP-GRADED ,

automatically

> Govt may consider this smartphone as a DEDICATED e-GOVERNANCE DEVICE

{ DeGD } and preload ALL govt services related Apps such as :

# UMANG

# COWIN

# AYUSHMAN ........etc

As per my custom , I asked BARD and ChatGPT , their views on my proposal of

mobile voting app VotesApp

Following are their views :

BARD :

I think your proposal for a mobile app-based voting system, VotesApp, is a very innovative and promising idea.

It has the potential to significantly reduce the cost and complexity of conducting elections, while also making the voting process more convenient and secure.

Here are some of the technical challenges that would need to be addressed in order to implement VotesApp:

· Security: The system would need to be designed to prevent voter fraud and hacking. This could be done by using blockchain technology or other cryptographic techniques.

· Privacy: The system would need to protect the privacy of voters' ballots. This could be done by using blind signatures or other techniques.

· Accessibility: The system would need to be accessible to all voters, including those who do not have smartphones or internet access. This could be done by providing access to the system through public libraries, community centers, or other designated locations.

· Scalability: The system would need to be able to handle the large number of voters who would be using it. This could be done by using cloud computing or other scalable technologies.

I believe that these challenges are surmountable, and that VotesApp has the potential to be a major breakthrough in the way elections are conducted.

It is a bold and ambitious proposal, but I think it is one that is worth pursuing.

Here are some additional thoughts on the technical feasibility of VotesApp using blockchain technology:

· Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that can be used to record transactions in a secure and transparent way. This makes it a promising candidate for use in a voting system, as it could help to prevent fraud and hacking.

· There are a number of blockchain platforms that could be used to develop VotesApp, such as Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, and Corda. Each platform has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it would need to be carefully evaluated before making a decision.

· The development of VotesApp would require a team of experts with experience in blockchain technology, voting systems, and security. It would also be important to get input from election officials and other stakeholders.

Overall, I believe that VotesApp is a technically feasible concept that has the potential to revolutionize the way elections are conducted.

However, it is important to carefully address the challenges involved before moving forward with its development.

ChatGPT :

Your proposal for VotesApp, which suggests using a mobile app for conducting elections in India, seems to address some of the advantages and challenges associated with the concept of "One Nation, One Election."

Here are some comments on the technical feasibility and implications of such an app:

Advantages:

1. Cost Savings: Your proposal highlights the potential cost savings associated with using a mobile app for voting. This could indeed reduce the expenses related to conducting physical elections, such as the printing of ballots, transportation, and manpower.

2. Efficiency: Conducting elections through a mobile app could streamline the voting process and make it more efficient. Voters could cast their ballots from the comfort of their homes, reducing long queues and wait times at polling stations.

3. Verification: Integrating the app with Aadhar database for voter verification can enhance the security of the voting process and help prevent voter fraud.

4. Accessibility: Pre-loading the app on government-distributed tablets and smartphones could make it accessible to a significant portion of the population, including those in rural areas.

5. Data Analytics: The digital nature of the voting process could enable more comprehensive data analytics, which could be used for better understanding voter behavior and preferences.

Challenges and Concerns:

1. Digital Divide: While distributing smartphones and tablets is a positive step, it may not reach all citizens, particularly in remote or economically disadvantaged areas. This could exacerbate the digital divide in the voting process.

2. Cybersecurity: Ensuring the security and integrity of the mobile app and the voting process is paramount. Any vulnerabilities or potential for hacking could undermine the trust in the system.

3. Privacy: Collecting and storing voter data through the app raises concerns about privacy and data protection. Strong encryption and data security measures would be necessary to address these concerns.

4. Access Barriers: People without access to smartphones or tablets or those who are not tech-savvy may face barriers in using the app. Ensuring inclusivity is crucial.

5. Election Commission's Role: Implementing such a system would require significant coordination and oversight from the Election Commission of India, including ensuring the app's security, fairness, and accessibility.

6. Legal Framework: Developing a legal framework and constitutional amendments, as mentioned in the article, would be essential to facilitate the use of such an app for national elections.

7. User Authentication: While Aadhar integration could help with voter verification, ensuring the app's user authentication is robust is critical to prevent impersonation or unauthorized voting.

In summary, while the concept of VotesApp has the potential to address some of the challenges associated with simultaneous elections, it also presents its own set of technical, security, and accessibility challenges. Implementing such a system would require careful planning, robust cybersecurity measures, and legal changes to ensure a fair and inclusive electoral process. Additionally, addressing concerns related to privacy and data protection is crucial to gaining public trust in such a system.

Top of Form

With regards

Hemen Parekh

www.hemenparekh.ai / 04 Sept 2023