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

Wednesday, 4 December 2024

Rooftop Solar & Clueless Government ?

 


 

Article link:

Government mulls central data repository on rooftop solar power generation - The Economic Times

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Extract from the article:

 

The government is contemplating the establishment of a centralized data repository to monitor and analyze rooftop solar power generation.

 

This initiative aims to streamline data collection, track progress, and ensure effective utilization of rooftop solar energy.

 

By centralizing information on rooftop solar installations, the government seeks to enhance transparency, facilitate decision-making, and promote renewable energy adoption.

 

This strategic move aligns with the country's ambitious renewable energy targets and underscores the significance of harnessing solar power for sustainable development.

 

My Take:

 

Solar Black Money Amnesty & Indian Economy

 

The essence of my earlier blog highlighted the financial challenges in scaling up solar power infrastructure.

 

I noted the daunting task of securing funds for large-scale solar projects. The current proposal for a centralized data repository on rooftop solar aligns with the need for transparency and financial planning. Implementing such a system could aid in attracting investments and ensuring accountability in the renewable energy sector. It's essential to address financial concerns to achieve the targeted solar capacity growth efficiently.

 

Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee: A 7-Year Journey

 

In my recent blog, I emphasized the importance of empowering individual households to generate and trade rooftop solar energy.

 

The proposal to establish a central data repository can support this vision by providing insights into individual rooftop solar installations.

 

By enabling homeowners to participate in a solar power trading exchange, the government can promote self-sufficiency and community engagement in renewable energy production.

 

This advancement aligns with the push for decentralized energy generation and could pave the way for a more sustainable energy ecosystem.

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Call to Action:

 

To the Honourable Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri R K Singh,

 

-       I urge you to expedite the implementation of the centralized data repository on rooftop solar power generation.

 

This initiative can significantly boost transparency, drive investments, and accelerate the adoption of solar energy across the country.

 

By fostering collaboration with stakeholders and emphasizing the importance of individual solar contributions, we can move closer to achieving our renewable energy targets effectively.

 

 

With regards,


Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  05 dec 2024

Rooftop Solar Shortfall : As envisaged

 


 

Article Link:

 

Click Here

 

Extract from the Article:

 

The article highlights that only 6% of the targeted 1 crore rooftop solar systems were installed in the initial months of the PMSGMBY initiative.

 

It further mentions that out of 1,000 solar power plants, a mere 6,000 were installed by the government in February as part of the scheme's objective to provide free electricity to Indian households.

 

The low installation numbers indicate a significant gap between the scheme's ambitious targets and its actual implementation progress.

 

With a focus on rooftop solar systems, the government's effort to bring renewable energy to homes faces challenges in scaling up installations to meet the energy needs efficiently.

 

My Take:

Suryodaya Yojana

 

"Reflecting on my past blog discussing the need for accelerating rooftop solar installations in urban areas, I find a parallel with the current scenario.

 

The challenges highlighted in my previous post resonate with the slow progress of the PMSGMBY initiative. Addressing the constraints of space and capacity in urban settings remains crucial for successful solar power adoption."

 

 

Dr. Murmuji, Your Opportunity Knocks

 

"In my blog about maximizing rooftop solar installations for urban households, I had emphasized the need for innovative solutions to overcome space limitations.

 

The recent data on the slow pace of rooftop solar deployment underscores the importance of rethinking strategies to accommodate more installations effectively.

 

Finding ways to optimize space usage in urban areas could be instrumental in enhancing solar uptake."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and policymakers involved in the PMSGMBY initiative, consider revisiting the implementation strategies to overcome barriers hindering the rapid deployment of rooftop solar systems.

 

Encouraging innovative solutions and addressing urban space limitations could drive the effective scaling of renewable energy initiatives in India.

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With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  05  Dec  2024

ECI : How about “ Zero Booth “ ?

 


 

Article link:

 

Supreme Court seeks ECI's response on petition against increase of voters per booth

 

Extract from the article:

 

The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India to provide a detailed explanation through an affidavit regarding its decision to raise the number of voters per booth to 1,500 or more.

 

This decision, which was put into effect in 2019 post-discussions with various political parties, had remained uncontested until a recent petition. The court's request for transparency on this matter showcases the importance of ensuring fair and efficient electoral processes.

 

This move highlights the intersection of legal oversight and administrative decisions in the electoral realm. The scrutiny by the court underscores the significance of balancing democratic principles with practical implementations in the electoral framework. It also emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and accountability within the electoral machinery to uphold the integrity of the voting process.

 

My Take:

Thank you, Shri Shekhawatji, for your insight

 

"Reflecting on my past blog where I discussed the potential of voting through a mobile app, I see a parallel with the current Supreme Court's inquiry into the increase in voters per booth. The evolving landscape of technology in voting methods may offer solutions or pose challenges that need thorough evaluation.

 

The need for innovative solutions in ensuring inclusive and efficient voting processes remains a pertinent issue."

 

 Saluting the Supreme Solution from SC

 

"The recent insights by the Supreme Court on the challenges of human intervention in the electoral process resonate with the complexities highlighted in my previous blog.

 

Emphasizing the trust in institutions and the necessity of accountability, the current legal deliberations echo the concerns raised earlier.

 

The caution against reverting to outdated voting systems underscores the importance of embracing technology while ensuring transparency and accuracy in elections."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Election Commission of India: I urge the ECI to respond promptly and transparently to the Supreme Court's queries regarding the increase in voters per booth.

 

Ensuring clarity and accountability in electoral decisions is crucial for upholding the democratic process and building public trust in the election system.

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai   /   05  Dec  2024

Fadnavisji : Make it 30 GW by Dec 2025

 


 

Article link:

Maharashtra Aims for 1,000MW Solar Energy for Farmers by Year-End Under MSKVY 2.0

Extract from the article:

The state of Maharashtra is gearing up to power its farms with 1,000MW of solar energy by the end of the year under the MSKVY 2.0 initiative.

 

This ambitious plan is part of the state's larger goal of launching 16,000MW of distributed renewable energy projects across 19 districts.

 

By focusing on solar energy, the government aims to provide sustainable and clean power solutions to farmers, contributing to both agricultural development and environmental conservation efforts.

 

The policy under MSKVY 2.0 will lead to significant changes in the energy landscape of Maharashtra, promoting the use of LED bulbs in new buildings, encouraging the adoption of solar energy for agricultural pumps and village water schemes, and emphasizing energy-efficient practices in public institutions like schools and jails.

 

Through this initiative, the state government intends to not only enhance energy efficiency but also reduce energy costs significantly over the next few years.

 

My Take:

 

FOR ATTN : SHRI PIYUSH GOYALJI

 

"Reflecting on my earlier blog about promoting energy efficiency through LED bulbs and solar power in Maharashtra, it's heartening to see the state now aiming for significant solar energy deployment for farmers.

 

The foresight shown by the government in implementing energy-saving measures in various sectors aligns with the current push towards sustainable energy solutions."

 

 

Solar Power : GigaWatt or GigaFlop ?

 

"As I pondered over the ambitious solar power targets set by the government in the past, I can't help but notice the progress made in auctioning solar power capacity. However, as we inch closer to the 2022 solar power goal, there is a need for accelerated implementation to bridge the gap between planned and actual capacity installations."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the State Energy Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule and other relevant authorities in Maharashtra, I urge continued support and expedited implementation of solar energy initiatives like MSKVY 2.0.

 

This focused approach towards renewable energy not only benefits farmers but also paves the way for a sustainable and greener future for the state. Let's work together to achieve these targets efficiently and effectively.

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /   05  Dec  2024

No News is Bad News

 


 

Article link:

Cabinet Secretary Seeks Detailed Progress Reports of Activities from Ministries for Better Evaluation

 

Extract from the article:

 

The Cabinet Secretary, T V Somanathan, has requested detailed progress reports of activities from ministries, with a particular emphasis on infrastructure-related ministries like road, railway, power, telecom, and urban affairs.

 

This request is critical for better evaluation and monitoring of the government's initiatives and projects. By seeking comprehensive reports, the government aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the functioning of ministries.

 

In a bid to streamline operations and improve performance, the focus on detailed progress reports underscores the government's commitment to effective governance.

 

With a specific emphasis on infrastructure sectors that play a vital role in the country's development, this move highlights the importance of rigorous evaluation and monitoring to ensure timely implementation and successful outcomes of projects.

 

 

My Take:

 

No More Delayed Projects?

 

The recent directive by Prime Minister Modi to the Cabinet Secretary to prepare "dossiers" of delayed projects and to hold responsible officers and agencies for the backlog is a step in the right direction.

 

As I had previously emphasized in my blog post about the need to address project delays, the government's move to fix accountability for delays aligns with the principle of ensuring timely project execution.

 

By focusing on identifying responsible parties and streamlining processes, the government is demonstrating its commitment to enhancing project efficiency and minimizing time and cost overruns.

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Cabinet Secretary, T V Somanathan, and all ministries involved, I urge for continued diligence in providing detailed progress reports as requested. Transparency and accountability are essential pillars of good governance, and by adhering to thorough reporting practices, ministries can contribute to the effective evaluation and successful implementation of government initiatives. Let's strive for efficiency and excellence in our efforts towards national progress.

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With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  05  Dec  2024

Nuclear will take Decades

 


 

Article Link:

Read the full article here


Extract from the Article:

India's largest power producer, NTPC Ltd, is gearing up to invest a massive 3-4 lakh crore ( approx . $ 50 Billion ? ),  in adding nuclear power capacity of around 20 GW over the next 23 years.

 

The estimated investment in these projects is expected to range from 45,000-50,000 crore. The ambitious plan includes collaboration with private companies like Reliance Industries, Tata Power, Adani Power, and Vedanta Ltd to enhance the country's nuclear power generation capacity significantly.

 

 

The initiative marks a significant shift towards clean energy sources, aiming to boost India's electricity generation from non-fossil fuel sources to meet the target of having 50% of electric generation capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030.

 

This strategic move not only aligns with global environmental goals but also underscores the growing importance of private sector participation in the country's energy landscape.

 

My Take:


Nuclear or Solar? Choice is Clear

 

The article highlighting India's invitation for private investment in the nuclear energy sector to reduce carbon emissions resonates with my previous blog post regarding the debate between nuclear and solar energy.

 

I had discussed the cost-effectiveness and environmental implications of choosing between these two energy sources.

 

The current initiative of seeking private partnerships in nuclear power investments reflects a shift towards sustainable energy solutions and underscores the need for long-term planning in the energy sector.

 

 

Call to Action:

 

Dear NTPC :

 

Nowhere in the world , NEW nuclear plants are being planned or under construction, for many decades now

 

If anything , existing nuclear plants are being closed down ( - with some exceptions, no doubt )

 

Your proposed 20 GW of Nuclear will take 23 years ( assuming there are no oppositions from each local population ). As against this, Adani’s Khavda Solar Project ( Kutch ) of 30 GW , will come up in ( max ) 5 years !  10 GW came up in less than 2 years and is already pumping power !

 

And , as against NTPC estimate of $ 50 billion for 20 GW ( in 23 years ) , Adani Solar will cost $ 10 billion for 30 GW ( in 5 years ) !

 

Dear NTPS :

 

Please abandon your Nuclear ( day ) Dream

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  05 Dec 2024

SOS in Uber ? Save Our Selves ?

 


 

Article Link:

Uber to integrate SOS button in app with police control room

 

Extract from the Article:

 

In a significant move towards ensuring rider and driver safety, Uber is set to integrate an SOS button in its app that will connect directly to the police control room.

 

This feature will allow users to share live location and trip details with the police during emergencies, aiming to provide immediate support in critical situations.

 

The SOS button is already operational in Telangana and is currently being piloted in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh after completing successful testing.

 

 

This integration not only enhances the safety aspect of Uber rides but also serves as a proactive measure to assist both riders and drivers in distress.

 

By leveraging technology to establish a direct link with law enforcement, Uber is prioritizing emergency response and real-time assistance for its users, ensuring a safer and more secure travel experience.

 

 

My Take:

 

HOW UBER IS INNOVATING IN INDIA

 

"The initiative by Uber to integrate an SOS button in its app aligns perfectly with the focus on leveraging technology for enhanced safety and security, a concept I have advocated for years.

 

Back in 2017, I highlighted the importance of IoT and sensors in transforming the transport sector, emphasizing the need for real-time feedback and accurate measurements for drivers.

 

Uber's current step towards integrating emergency assistance features showcases a practical application of such technological advancements in ensuring user well-being."

 

Congratulations, Shri Khattarji

 

"Kudos to Shri Khattarji for spearheading innovative solutions in police departments, such as the GIS-based system for monitoring sensitive locations and integrating it with the Emergency Response Support System.

 

This proactive approach not only enhances law enforcement capabilities but also resonates with my past suggestions on leveraging technology for effective monitoring and emergency response.

 

The integration of such systems is a step towards creating a safer environment and could serve as a model for other departments nationwide."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the authorities involved in implementing the SOS button integration like Uber and the police departments, I urge a continued focus on leveraging technology for enhancing safety measures.

 

 Collaborative efforts in utilizing innovative solutions can significantly impact emergency response systems and ensure the well-being of all stakeholders. Let's work towards creating a more secure environment through proactive initiatives and technological advancements.

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai / 05 Dec 2024

Overwhelming Number of Schemes

 


Article link:

Govt working on centralised data repository for state welfare schemes - The Economic Times

Extract from the article:

 

The government is in the process of establishing a national data governance center to manage all public data and create guidelines for its handling, sharing, and potential monetization.

 

This repository will facilitate access to data for state agencies and startups, enabling them to leverage this information for various purposes such as public welfare and business insights. The focus is on harnessing the economic value of data through a national data-sharing policy under the purview of the data governance center.

 

This initiative mirrors global trends in data governance and aims to streamline data management across different sectors, including traffic patterns, healthcare information, and other public datasets.

 

By centralizing this data and defining clear rules for its utilization, the government intends to enhance transparency, drive innovation, and optimize resource allocation in the delivery of state welfare schemes.

 

 

My Take:


Thanks , Shri Piyush Goyalji

 

"Reflecting on my earlier blog post about the need for a national data governance center, it's heartening to see the government taking steps in this direction.

 

The proposed central repository echoes the concept of a unified platform for managing public data, a vision I had highlighted in my blog.

 

This move towards streamlining data access and utilization aligns with the core idea of optimizing resources and fostering transparency in governance."

 

 

One-Stop Shops

 

"In my blog post emphasizing the importance of a digital repository for official statistics, the development of the National Integrated Information Portal (NIIP) by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation is a positive step.

 

The integration of diverse datasets from various ministries into a single platform reflects the efficiency and accountability objectives I had discussed earlier.

 

This centralized approach can revolutionize data-driven decision-making and enhance the monitoring of socio-economic indicators for informed policy interventions."

 

Call to Action:

 

To the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation and other relevant government agencies involved in this data repository initiative:

 

Emphasize the importance of ensuring transparent access, data security, and collaborative utilization of this centralized data repository to maximize its potential impact on driving evidence-based policymaking and efficient resource management for state welfare schemes.

 

 

With regards,

 

Hemen Parekh

 

www.My-Teacher.in

 

www.HemenParekh.ai  /  05 Dec 2024

Tuesday, 3 December 2024

“ 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