Hi Friends,

Even as I launch this today ( my 80th Birthday ), I realize that there is yet so much to say and do. There is just no time to look back, no time to wonder,"Will anyone read these pages?"

With regards,
Hemen Parekh
27 June 2013

Now as I approach my 90th birthday ( 27 June 2023 ) , I invite you to visit my Digital Avatar ( www.hemenparekh.ai ) – and continue chatting with me , even when I am no more here physically

Monday, 18 November 2024

Why Self Driving Cars ?

 


 

Article link:

Trump to push self-driving vehicles in boost to Tesla

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Extract from the article:

 

President-elect Donald Trump's transition team is prioritizing a federal framework for fully-driving vehicles. This move is poised to benefit Tesla CEO Elon Musk significantly, given Tesla's heavy investments in self-driving technology.

 

While the Transportation Department can make regulatory adjustments, the article emphasizes that Congressional action is crucial for widespread adoption of this advanced technology.

 

This initiative could potentially revolutionize the automotive industry, paving the way for safer roads and innovative transportation solutions.

 

By exploring self-driving vehicles, the government aims to enhance efficiency, reduce accidents caused by human error, and align with the global trend towards electric and autonomous transportation systems.

---

My Take:

Time to Reinvent for Hindustan

 

"Reflecting on my past blog about the cost-effectiveness of autonomous electric vehicles, it's fascinating to see this concept taking center stage in the political realm.

 

The potential tenfold reduction in transportation costs by embracing self-drive electric vehicles resonates with the current push for self-driving technology in the US.

 

The planned electrification goals in countries like China and India align with the vision of a future dominated by autonomous and eco-friendly vehicles. This shift towards electric and autonomous transportation signifies a crucial step towards a sustainable and efficient mobility landscape."

---

Enable Elon to Catalyse

 

"In my previous blog, I highlighted the golden opportunity India has to leverage Elon Musk's expertise and resources for transformative transportation initiatives.

 

The recent news about Tesla seeking import relief until establishing a local manufacturing unit echoes the need to enable visionaries like Musk to drive innovation in the Indian automotive sector.

 

Musk's vision aligns with the government's ambitious targets for electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions.

 

Embracing his ideas could catalyze the adoption of electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, and futuristic urban transport systems, reshaping India's mobility landscape significantly."

 

 

Why don’t they park in their flats ? ….  01 Sept 2017

 

Extract :

 

“ As against 22 lakh cars , we have parking space on the roads , for only 3.3 lakh cars ( approx.. for 15 % of the cars

 

 

And , each car , on an average , gets used DAILY ( being driven on the road ) for just hours out of available 24 hours ( …. 12  % of the time ! )

 

 

For the balance 21 hours , it is just PARKED on the streets , causing all of our PARKING SPACE SHORTAGES

 

 

Hence , we offer you Car Owners , the following options :

 

 

·         At any given time , only 3.3 lakh cars will be allowed to be parked on the roads , with the rest having to park inside their flats ( like ODD / EVEN number scheme )

 

 

 

·         Let everyone dispose off their PERSONAL cars and use  “ Ride Sharing “ arrangements . Working round the clock , these 3.3 lakh “ Ride Sharing Cars “ would suffice to take all of you to your work-place and back

 

 

 

 

PS :

 

Of course, in our country, any large scale deployment of self-driving cars would have the undesirable consequence of LOSS of JOBS for the drivers

 

But imagine a 75 % reduction in the CAR POPULATION , since self-driving cars would ply and transport people, for 24 hours as against 3 hour of privately owned cars !

---

Call to Action:

 

To President-elect Donald Trump and Congress,

 

I urge you to continue supporting initiatives that promote the development and adoption of self-driving technology.

 

By fostering a conducive regulatory environment and incentivizing innovation in the automotive sector, you can accelerate the transition towards safer, greener, and more efficient transportation systems.

 

Let's pave the way for a future where advanced technologies like self-driving vehicles not only benefit companies like Tesla but also contribute to a sustainable and resilient transportation ecosystem.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai / 19 Nov 2024

Politicians will turn all Metros into Delhi

 


 

Article link:

Supreme Court raps CAQM for delaying Stage 4 GRAP curbs as Delhi's pollution worsens

 

Extract from the article:

 

The Supreme Court has reprimanded the CAQM for the procrastination in implementing Stage 4 GRAP curbs as Delhi's pollution worsens.

 

Criticism has been directed at the Delhi government for the delay in enforcing stricter anti-pollution measures under GRAP-4.

 

The region comprising Delhi and its surrounding metropolitan area consistently ranks high in global air pollution levels during winter months.

 

Alarming spikes in Delhi's Air Quality Index beyond 450 have pushed the city into the severe pollution category, underscoring the urgent need for stringent measures to combat the escalating pollution crisis.

 

 

My Take:

 

Delhi in Doldrums

 

"The concerns raised years ago about administrative inaction towards combating pollution in Delhi seem alarmingly relevant today.

 

The delay in decisive action, driven by vested interests or political ambiguity, has perpetuated the pollution crisis.

 

The disparity in focus on Delhi's pollution concerns vis-a-vis other polluted cities raises pertinent questions about the equitable distribution of environmental attention and remedial actions."

 

 

Dear Shri Nitin Gadkariji, Here Is...

 

"Addressing the broader perspective on air pollution is crucial, transcending regional boundaries.

 

The suggestion for a comprehensive 'Air Pollution Solution' roadmap echoes the need for a systematic approach to combatting pollution.

 

A well-defined plan, as proposed, would showcase seriousness in tackling the issue and could potentially guide policymakers towards effective solutions."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the concerned administrative agencies in Delhi and the CAQM:

 

Time is of essence in combating the escalating pollution crisis in Delhi.

 

Immediate and proactive implementation of stringent anti-pollution measures, as directed by the Supreme Court, is imperative to safeguard public health and uphold environmental well-being.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  19 Nov 2024

Election Commission Listened : Partially

 

 

Some 8 years ago, I sent following Email to the Election Commission :

Ø  Filtering Candidate Information ?...................    18  Sept 2016

 

Extract :

Would voters be enthused to come forward to vote , if

#  Latest info about ALL of those candidates was available at finger-tips on his Mobile ( authenticated by

    Election Commission ), eliminating hours of " searching " on the Net and hours of " filtering "

 

#  That info would comprise,

 

     *  Affidavit filed by the Candidates


     *  Police Record including cases filed / pending / disposed off , against the candidates


     *  Past political history ( no of political parties changed )


     *  Director-ship ( direct / indirect ) in private businesses and NPA of those businesses

 

     *  Results of open Surveys on " ROMP - RecallOur Member of Parliament "

        {  http://myblogepage.blogspot.com/2015/08/romp-panacea.html  }


     *  Whether the candidate has accepted to implement the " 
Charter of Demand " ( if elected ) , submitted

         and uploaded by the Voters of his Constituency on the web site of the Election Commission



#  He can vote directly from his Mobile , without having to go to a Polling Booth and spend 4 hours

#  He can take 5 minutes to cast his vote, sitting in his bedroom , without holding up other voters in the queue

#  He can vote at any time of the voting day and from any place on the earth !

#  And get to know the very next morning , who got elected

 

YES , of course !


And voter turn-out would be 
95 %  !


HOW  ?

By implementing , " VotesApp " 

{ http://myblogepage.blogspot.com/2012/12/votesapp.html }

( a Mobile App which , effectively shrinks a bulky, common , special purpose  Electronic Voting Machine - EVM - into a tiny, personally-owned , versatile Mobile )

{ http://www.hemenparekh.in/2013/08/votesapp.html#.V99_Kfl94ok }


ANY   BYE-PRODUCT   ?

Sure,

Central Government , can earn Rs 20,000 crores , by enabling 15 million Indian businesses to advertise to 850 million voters thru this mobile VotesApp , sharply targeting by Gender / Age / Marital Status / City / Street / Education / Income Tax paid / Employed or Jobless ....etc

       

Ø  Candidates / Spouses / Kids : Assets ?  …………………………….  16  Feb  2018

 

Extract :

“ Candidates Must Reveal Source of Spouse & Kids’ Assets Too : SC “

 

Dear Hon Supreme Court :

 

 

There is no need for  “ setting up a permanent mechanism to keep tabs on and probe the assets of law-makers and their immediate families “

 

 

All that is required is to add one more field in the Income Tax Form ( revised one introduced in 2016 ) , which says :

 

 

“ If either yourself or any member of your near family ( spouse / children / son-in-law / daughter-in-law ) have held any position in Parliament or State Legislature or Municipal Corporation , at any time during past 5 years , provide full details below :…………………. “

 

 

For 2016-17 assessment year, the tax department has unveiled new income tax return form

 

 

For persons with income above Rs 50 lakhs, it requires submission of following details ( with cost of each item ) :

 

 

*  All immovable assets ( such as land / buildings etc )

 

*  All movable assets ( such as Cash, Jewellery , Vehicles , Yachts etc )

 

*  All liabilities ( such as loans )

 

 

 

What made me think that Election Commission listened ?

I came across the following advt in today’s Hindustan Times :



 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  19  Nov  2024

Bombay High Court Criticizes

 

Bombay High Court Criticizes Government for Ignoring Noise Pollution and Illegal Pandal Orders


Extract from the article:

 

The Bombay High Court recently criticized the government for its negligence towards noise pollution and illegal pandal orders in the city. Judge Mohite-Dere emphasized that politicians bear responsibility for the rampant noise pollution, pointing out the lack of officers willing to stand up to them.

 

The court's stance sheds light on the challenges faced in enforcing noise pollution regulations and dealing with unauthorized pandal constructions.

 

This critique underscores the intricate dynamics between political influence and environmental governance, highlighting a concerning trend where public health and legal regulations are compromised for political expediency.

 

The judiciary's reproach illuminates the urgent need for accountability and enforcement mechanisms to combat noise pollution effectively and address illegal constructions that disrupt urban tranquillity.


My Take:

 

Noise Complaints……13/07/2017

"In my blog post from 2017, I highlighted the need for a grievance redressal mechanism to address noise pollution complaints promptly.

 

The recent statements from the Bombay High Court reaffirm the importance of such mechanisms in ensuring citizen participation in upholding noise pollution regulations. This resonates with the court's criticism of the government's inaction in tackling noise pollution issues effectively."

 

Supreme Court Seriously……07/05/2021

"My blog from 2021 discussed the role of government accountability in addressing societal concerns. The Bombay High Court's critique of political responsibility for noise pollution aligns with the notion that the government must be held responsible for safeguarding public welfare.

 

Justice Mohite-Dere's observation about the lack of officer resistance to political pressure echoes the significance of independent governance highlighted in my previous blog."


Call to Action:

 

To the Bombay High Court and the State Government: Take immediate steps to enforce noise pollution regulations rigorously and address illegal pandal orders.

 

Prioritize citizen well-being over political interests and implement a robust grievance redressal mechanism to ensure prompt action on noise pollution complaints. Let's work together to create a peaceful and compliant urban environment for all residents.


With regards, 

 

Hemen Parekh

 

 

www.My-Teacher.in

CBSE mandates CCTV

 

CBSE mandates CCTVs in class for 10 & 12 board exams in 2025

 

Extract from the Article:

 

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated schools to install CCTV cameras in classrooms for Class 10 and 12 board exams in February-March 2025. Schools failing to comply with this requirement will not be qualified as exam centers.

 

The responsibility of bearing the cost of installing and maintaining the cameras rests with the schools. This move aims to enhance exam security and deter malpractices during crucial board examinations.

 

In a bid to ensure transparency and prevent exam-related misconduct, the CBSE's decision to introduce compulsory CCTV surveillance signifies a significant shift towards modernizing exam administration.

 

By leveraging technology, the education board is striving to create a more secure examination environment and maintain the integrity of the assessment process. This proactive approach demonstrates the board's commitment to fostering a fair and accountable evaluation system.

 

My Take:

 

Exam Malpractices No More…..19/10/2019

 

In my blog post from 2019, I highlighted the importance of leveraging live CCTV feeds to predict and prevent exam malpractices.

 

The recent CBSE mandate echoes the essence of my suggestion. By proactively deploying CCTV surveillance, institutions can deter cheating and ensure a level playing field for all students.

 

This initiative aligns with the need for stringent measures to uphold the sanctity of examinations and underscores the significance of technological interventions in education.

 

Supreme Surveillance Solution…..05/12/2020

 

The Supreme Court's directive to install CCTV cameras in various government agencies and police stations resonates with the paradigm shift towards surveillance for accountability and transparency.

 

Just as the judiciary emphasized the importance of CCTV surveillance to prevent custodial torture, the CBSE's move to implement cameras in exam centers reinforces the idea of using technology as a tool for enhancing security and ensuring fairness.

 

The convergence of these initiatives underscores a broader societal shift towards embracing surveillance as a means of upholding justice and integrity.

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), I urge you to ensure comprehensive training for school administrators on the effective use of CCTV surveillance systems. Additionally, consider establishing protocols for data privacy and storage to safeguard the integrity of the recorded footage.

 

By fostering a culture of responsible surveillance practices, CBSE can set a benchmark for ensuring exam security while upholding ethical standards in educational assessments.


With regards, 

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

Sunday, 17 November 2024

Ways to Save the Planet

 


Article Link:

Jane Goodall calls for Intelligent Action to Save Our Planet

---

Extract from the Article:

Jane Goodall is advocating for intelligent action to safeguard our planet. She recently led the Ocean Literacy Dialogues in India as part of her Hope Tour.

 

This initiative is aligned with the UN Ocean Decade-endorsed Ocean Literacies with All program. Through these dialogues, Goodall emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive efforts to protect our oceans and environment, stressing the importance of informed and thoughtful actions in tackling environmental challenges.

 

As an influential figure in the realm of environmental conservation and sustainability, Jane Goodall's call for intelligent action resonates deeply with the global community. By spearheading initiatives like the Ocean Literacy Dialogues, she brings attention to critical issues impacting our planet and advocates for concrete steps to address them.

 

Goodall's emphasis on the importance of education and awareness in driving sustainable change underscores the significance of collective action in preserving our natural resources for future generations.

---

My Take:

A.  Title: https://lnkd.in/eCxKFUue

 

"Reflecting on my past insights, I had forecasted the importance of undertaking specific actions to protect the environment years ago.

 

Jane Goodall's current advocacy for intelligent actions to save our planet echoes the sentiment I conveyed in my earlier blog.

 

It's gratifying to see a resonance between my recommendations and the actions advocated by global environmental leaders today."



Link: https://emailothers.blogspot.com/2018/10/count-down-has-begun.html

-

"In my previous blog, I had highlighted the crucial role of NGOs and public policy think tanks in formulating practical solutions to environmental challenges.

Jane Goodall's emphasis on the need for intelligent actions aligns with my belief that societal well-being should take precedence over individual interests. It is heartening to see influential voices calling for a collective effort towards environmental conservation."

---

Call to Action:

 

To Jane Goodall and other environmental advocates, I urge you to continue inspiring and mobilizing individuals and organizations towards sustainable actions. Let us amplify our efforts to protect our planet by promoting awareness, fostering collaboration, and driving impactful changes in policies and practices.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  18 Nov 2024

LLM = Large Legal Mockery ?

 


Article Link:

University Gets HC Notice After Law Student Is Accused of Using AI for Assignment

---

Extract from the Article:

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a notice to OP Jindal Global University following allegations from a law student, Kaustubh Shakkarwar, claiming that his exam was unjustly marked as AI-generated.

 

Shakkarwar, a practicing attorney and former law researcher, has initiated a legal challenge against the university. This case raises concerns about the use of artificial intelligence in academic evaluations and the potential implications on fairness and transparency in assessments.

 

The accusation of AI involvement in grading assignments brings to light the evolving dynamics between technology and traditional assessment methods within educational institutions.

 

As the legal battle unfolds, it prompts a deeper examination of how AI integration in academia requires careful monitoring and ethical considerations to ensure a just and equitable learning environment for students.

---

My Take:

 

 AI-driven Command Centre for Online Exams

 

In my earlier blog post, I emphasized the importance of leveraging AI to handle the backlog of pending court cases.

 

Similarly, the utilization of AI in education, specifically in online exam settings, echoes the need for technological interventions to streamline processes and combat malpractices effectively.

 

The current scenario of AI being implicated in marking student assessments underscores the necessity for robust AI governance frameworks in both legal and educational domains to maintain trust and integrity in decision-making processes.

 

 

 24x7 Virtual Courts: Design and Implementation

 

Reflecting on my proposal for 24x7 virtual courts, the intersection of law and technology becomes increasingly evident in cases like the one involving the use of AI in student evaluations.

 

The call for transparency and public engagement by the Minister for Law aligns with the broader discourse on ensuring accountability and fairness in the adoption of AI tools across different sectors.

 

This incident serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape where legal frameworks need to adapt swiftly to address emerging challenges brought forth by technological advancements.

---

Call to Action:

 

To the Ministry of Law and relevant authorities involved in addressing the implications of AI in education, I urge prompt action in establishing clear guidelines and oversight mechanisms to ensure the ethical deployment of AI tools in academic assessments.

 

Embracing transparency and engaging in dialogue with stakeholders can foster a conducive environment for innovation while safeguarding against potential risks associated with AI integration in educational settings.

---

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  18  Nov  2024

Migrants : Economic vs Persecuted

 


 

Article link:

Migrants locked out of the West

 

Extract from the article:

 

The article discusses how migrants, particularly economic migrants seeking better opportunities, are facing challenges in the West.

 

It highlights the plight of those seeking a better life in Western countries but are labeled as economic migrants and face repatriation.

 

Despite the opposition from various quarters, the influx of migrants into the EU continues to be a daily occurrence, posing economic and social challenges.

 

The article sheds light on the struggles and marginalization faced by this group of individuals who are often the biggest losers in the political landscape.

 

My Take:

Exporting Manpower

 

Reflecting on my earlier blog post about the massive diaspora of Indians working abroad, it's evident that the challenges faced by economic migrants resonate deeply with the current scenario.

 

The reluctance of host countries to embrace these individuals seeking a better life mirrors the sentiments expressed in my past write-up.

 

The resistance from trade unions and political parties against migrants echoes the concerns raised about job displacement and economic strain due to migration.

 

It's crucial to address these issues with compassion and understanding while finding sustainable solutions to integrate migrants into the workforce.

 

 

Land of Koop Mandooks - Frogs in Well

 

In the context of the current article, the concept of Indian professionals excelling on the global stage despite challenges resonates deeply with the struggles of migrants seeking acceptance in the West.

 

Just as Indians overseas contribute significantly to their host countries' economies, migrants too have the potential to enrich the societies they join.

 

The parallels between the narratives of Indians working abroad and economic migrants striving for better opportunities underline the importance of inclusivity and recognizing the talents and aspirations of diverse populations.

 

Call to Action:

 

To the policymakers and authorities mentioned in the article, I urge a reevaluation of immigration policies to provide equitable opportunities for migrants.

 

 It is essential to create pathways for economic migrants to contribute meaningfully to their host countries while fostering diversity and inclusivity.

 

 Embracing migrants as valuable assets rather than burdens can lead to a more prosperous and harmonious society.

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  18 Nov 2024