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

Thursday, 20 March 2025

Monthly Jobs Data to be Released from April

 

Article link: India to start monthly release of unemployment figures in April

Extract from the article:

The recent development where India plans to initiate the monthly publication of unemployment figures starting in April marks a significant shift in the country's data reporting practices.

This move aims to provide more transparency and regular updates on the employment scenario, allowing for better monitoring and analysis of the labor market dynamics. Previously, there have been debates and discrepancies surrounding job data estimations from various sources like CMIE, Ghosh & Ghosh Study, and EPFO, highlighting the need for a standardized and reliable system for capturing and disseminating such crucial information.

By implementing a systematic approach to report unemployment figures, the government seeks to address the growing concerns and uncertainties related to job creation and workforce participation rates.

My Take:

#UnEmployment #JobsData #EPFO #DigitalIndia

"The idea of automating the compilation of jobs data has been a long-standing recommendation to ensure accurate and timely reporting of employment statistics.

As mentioned in my previous blog post, the debates around job data discrepancies emphasize the urgency for a structured process to understand India's labor market comprehensively.

The introduction of monthly unemployment figures aligns with the concept of real-time data analysis and transparency advocated for in the past. It reflects a positive step towards addressing the challenges in capturing reliable employment information and shaping evidence-based policies for sustainable job growth."

ICEBERG OF UNEMPLOYMENT

"The foreseen demographic shift highlighted in the earlier blog post about the influx of young Indians entering the workforce resonates with the current focus on releasing regular unemployment figures.

With millions of individuals becoming eligible for employment each year, the need for accurate job creation metrics becomes paramount. The move towards monthly updates on unemployment data echoes the concerns raised about India's job market stability and the potential risks of unemployment reaching alarming levels.

By acknowledging the iceberg of unemployment and taking proactive steps to disclose monthly figures, the government displays a proactive approach to managing the labor market challenges."

Call to Action:

To Shri Sathiyavathy, TCA Ananth, Pulak Ghosh, Manish Sabharwal, and policymakers involved in data compilation, Let's collaborate on leveraging technology-driven solutions for compiling reliable employment data consistently.

Embracing automated and unbiased methodologies can enhance the credibility and accuracy of job creation statistics, enabling informed decision-making and proactive interventions to address unemployment challenges effectively.


With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

DeepSeek launch, Sam Altman visit spark VC

 

Article link: India's LLM moment: VCs begin to look at opportunity in LLM start-ups after Altman visit

Extract from the article:

The internet article discusses the growing interest of Venture Capitalists (VCs) in the Indian start-up ecosystem focused on Legal, Logistics, and Manufacturing (LLM) sectors following a visit by Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI.

The article highlights how this visit has sparked enthusiasm among VCs to tap into the emerging opportunities within LLM start-ups.

It mentions the top gainers and losers in the market, shedding light on the shifting trends in investment preferences towards sectors like LLM.

My Take:

Inevitable has arrived on Mumbai Shores

In my blog post titled "Inevitable has arrived on Mumbai Shores," I discussed the fast-paced developments in the financial markets, particularly the emergence of high-speed traders outmaneuvering traditional investors using specialized software.

This situation mirrors the current scenario of VCs gravitating towards LLM start-ups post the Altman visit, showcasing how rapid advancements can disrupt established norms.

The essence of competition leading to innovation, as highlighted in my blog, resonates with the changing dynamics in the investment landscape where adaptability is key.

Re-final Call for Registration

Reflecting on my blog post "Re-final Call for Registration," which detailed a conference agenda involving key industry players discussing topics ranging from funding procedures to disruptive growth strategies, parallels can be drawn with the current scenario.

The engagement of VCs with LLM start-ups signifies a concerted effort to explore diverse funding avenues and strategic growth initiatives, akin to the discussions held during the conference.

The foresight in identifying the importance of legal and financial aspects in funding, as mentioned in the blog, aligns with the critical considerations VCs are evaluating in the context of LLM start-ups.

Call to Action:

To the Venture Capitalists exploring opportunities in LLM start-ups post the Altman visit, I urge you to delve deep into the unique value propositions and innovative solutions these start-ups bring to the table.

Engage in meaningful dialogues with entrepreneurs, understand their vision, and leverage your expertise to nurture promising ventures within the Legal, Logistics, and Manufacturing sectors.

Your strategic investments can propel these start-ups towards sustainable growth and transformative impact in the Indian business landscape.

With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

Wednesday, 19 March 2025

Jio - backed Two AI's Sutra-R0 bets

 

Article link: Jio-backed Two AI Sutra-R0 Bets on Language Capability to Power Ahead - The Hindu BusinessLine


Extract from the article:

The article discusses the launch of two AI-powered search experiences by a company backed by Jio Platforms and South Korean Internet conglomerate Naver.

These AI experiences are set to debut during the upcoming summer. This strategic move highlights the growing importance of language capability in powering AI technologies forward.

The collaboration between Jio Platforms and Naver signifies a significant step towards leveraging AI for enhanced search experiences.


My Take:

Chatbots - Good, Bad, and Ugly

"The evolving landscape of AI and language capabilities mirrors the advancements in chatbot technology discussed in my earlier blog.

The focus on enhancing search experiences through language understanding aligns with the vision for future AI applications. The integration of large language models to improve search functions resonates with the current trend towards comprehensive information processing."


Chatbots: Some for Businesses; Some for Branding

"The recent collaboration between IndiGo and Microsoft to introduce the AI chatbot, 6Eskai, underscores the increasing significance of AI in customer interactions.

The emphasis on multilingual capabilities and workload reduction for service agents mirrors the industry's shift towards efficient language processing.

This partnership signifies a step towards providing personalized and effective customer service through innovative AI solutions."


Call to Action:

For businesses keen on enhancing customer interactions and streamlining operations, leveraging AI-powered language capabilities, as demonstrated by the collaboration between Jio Platforms, Naver, IndiGo, and Microsoft, can offer a competitive edge.

Explore how integrating advanced AI technologies can revolutionize your customer service experience and propel your business forward.


With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

Skills will make you indispensable: Modi

 

Article link: PM's mantra to students: Degrees valuable, but skills make you indispensable


Extract from the article:

In a recent interaction during Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025, PM Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of skills alongside degrees, stating that "Degrees are valuable, and skills make us indispensable."

He highlighted the empowering nature of skills when utilized effectively. This break from tradition involved an open-air conversation with students, focusing on the practical relevance of skills in today's dynamic world.

PM Modi's message reflects a shift towards recognizing the significance of practical expertise over mere academic qualifications.

By encouraging students to develop valuable skills alongside their degrees, he underlines the evolving nature of the job market and the need for adaptability and hands-on abilities for becoming truly indispensable in the workforce.


My Take:

Human Resource Capital of the World 

In my blog discussing PM Modi's vision of making India the "Human Resource Capital of the World," I highlighted his emphasis on skills and self-confidence.

The recent statement by PM Modi further reinforces the importance of skills in empowering individuals and driving economic growth. The focus on skill development resonates with the idea of creating opportunities for the youth to excel in a competitive global landscape.

PM Modi's mantra aligns with the notion that skills not only boost financial prosperity but also instill a sense of self-belief among individuals, especially the marginalized sections of society.

Skill Capital of the World 

In my earlier blog on making India the "Skill Capital of the World," PM Modi's commitment to enhancing skill development was evident. His recent statement about skills making individuals indispensable reinforces the need for a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the future.

As PM Modi envisions a surplus of skilled manpower for export, the urgency of imparting practical skills to the youth becomes even more critical.

The reforms in the Apprentice Scheme and the focus on inclusivity in skill training align with the broader goal of positioning India as a hub for skilled professionals globally.


Call to Action:

To the educational institutions and policymakers mentioned in the article, I urge you to prioritize skill development programs that complement academic degrees.

Embrace the evolving job market dynamics by equipping students with practical skills that enhance their employability and make them indispensable assets in the workforce.

Let's work together to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, shaping a future where skills are valued as much as degrees.


With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

Tuesday, 18 March 2025

251 LS MPs face criminal cases

 

Article link:  251 LS MPs face criminal cases including 19 of 20 from Kerala


Extract from the article:

The article highlights a concerning statistic that out of 543 Lok Sabha MPs, 251 are facing criminal cases, with 170 of them associated with severe offenses that entail a minimum of five years' imprisonment.

This data, presented to the Supreme Court, underscores the prevalence of criminalization in politics. Notably, 19 out of 20 Kerala MPs are among those facing criminal charges.

The information raises questions on the integrity and ethical standards of elected representatives, as a significant portion of them are entangled in legal issues that could compromise their ability to serve the public effectively.

This revelation sheds light on the critical issue of criminal charges looming over a considerable number of lawmakers, pointing towards a systemic problem within the political realm.

The data presented reflects a concerning trend that demands attention and action to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency in governance.


My Take:

The Hidden Numbers 

In my blog from 2012, I discussed the alarming figures regarding MPs and MLAs facing criminal cases. The current scenario outlined in the recent article about Lok Sabha MPs echoes the magnitude of the issue I highlighted back then.

The persisting high number of lawmakers entangled in criminal charges emphasizes the urgency for systemic reforms to ensure cleaner and more ethical political representation.

The statistical correlation between criminal cases and elected officials remains a glaring concern that requires immediate attention to restore public trust in the democratic process.

Model Code of Hypocrite Conduct 

Reflecting on my 2017 blog post, where I delved into the prevalence of criminal cases among legislators, the current data on Lok Sabha MPs facing criminal charges resonates with the patterns I highlighted.

The call for expeditious trial proceedings against lawmakers in the recent article aligns with the urgency I emphasized in establishing special courts to address these cases promptly.

The need for stringent actions to deter criminalization in politics remains paramount, and the Supreme Court's intervention signifies a step towards ensuring accountability and justice within the political sphere.


Call to Action:

To the Supreme Court and lawmakers mentioned in the article, it's imperative to swiftly implement the proposed action plans to expedite the trial proceedings in criminal cases against sitting and former legislators.

Upholding the rule of law and ensuring timely justice will not only deter malpractices but also foster a more transparent and accountable political environment for the betterment of society.


With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

State public univ grappling with faculty

 

Article link: State public universities grappling with faculty shortages, poor infrastructure: Niti Aayog report

Extract from the article:

The Niti Aayog report highlights the challenges faced by state public universities (SPUs) in India, including faculty shortages and poor infrastructure. T

he report recommends increasing public investment in higher education to 6% of the GDP, implementing performance-based funding, and granting greater autonomy to SPUs to enhance governance and research capacity.

SPUs currently enroll 81% of India's higher education students, indicating the critical role they play in the education sector.

This emphasis on improving infrastructure and faculty resources in SPUs is crucial for fostering a conducive learning environment and ensuring quality education for the majority of higher education students in the country.

By addressing these challenges, SPUs can enhance their research capabilities and overall academic performance, ultimately benefiting students and the education system as a whole.

My Take:

ENROLMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION

The report from November 1985 highlighted the need to motivate more students to pursue higher education to meet the demands of the future.

The suggested action of encouraging the private sector to invest in educational and research institutes aligns with the current discourse on enhancing public investment in higher education.

This historical insight underlines the long-standing importance of expanding access to higher education and developing a skilled workforce.

OUTLAY ON EDUCATION

The 1985 report emphasized the significance of increasing the allocation on education to 10% of the GDP to keep pace with global advancements.

This echoes the recent recommendation in the Niti Aayog report to raise public investment in higher education to 6% of the GDP. The consistent call for higher financial commitment to education reflects the persistent need for prioritizing this sector for national development.

Call to Action:

To the Ministry of Education and relevant authorities, I urge immediate attention to the recommendations put forth in the Niti Aayog report regarding SPUs.

Allocating adequate funds, implementing performance-based funding mechanisms, and enhancing autonomy can significantly improve the quality of education and research in state public universities. It is imperative to prioritize these reforms to effectively address the challenges faced by SPUs and ensure a robust higher education system for India's future.

With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

Monday, 17 March 2025

SC seeks Centre & EC replies

 

Article Link:  Should Convicts be barred for life from polls? SC seeks Centre & EC replies

Extract from the Article: 

The Supreme Court (SC) has requested responses from the Centre, Election Commission (EC), and others regarding the rationale behind allowing convicted criminals to participate in elections six years after serving their sentences.

This move reflects the court's scrutiny of the constitutional validity of certain sections within the Representation of the People (RP) Act. The SC's questioning of this practice underscores a critical examination of the eligibility criteria for individuals seeking to contest elections in India.

My Take:

Not So Supreme Court? 

In my previous blog post titled "A Not So Supreme Court?" from March 2017, I highlighted the Election Commission's advocacy for establishing special courts to address criminal cases involving lawmakers.

The proposal aimed to expedite legal proceedings against elected representatives, ensuring swift justice. Drawing parallels to the current scenario where the SC is revisiting the eligibility of convicted individuals to contest elections, the need for efficient legal mechanisms, as proposed earlier, becomes even more apparent.

The emphasis on expediting justice and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process aligns with the recent SC's actions, indicating a long-standing concern for transparency and accountability in governance.

Supreme Proposes: Can e-Courts Dispose? 

In September 2020, I discussed the Supreme Court's contemplation of imposing a lifetime ban on convicted politicians from participating in elections.

This proposition resonates with the current scenario where the SC is probing the six-year post-sentence waiting period for convicts to enter the electoral fray. The idea of safeguarding the electoral system from individuals with criminal backgrounds remains a persistent concern.

The call for stringent measures to uphold the sanctity of elections, evident in the SC's recent stance, echoes the proactive approach advocated earlier concerning the need for transparency and ethical standards in politics.

Call to Action: 

To the Supreme Court, Centre, and Election Commission, I urge prompt and thorough consideration of the implications of allowing convicted criminals to contest elections.

It is essential to prioritize the integrity of the electoral process and uphold the public's trust. Implementing measures to enhance transparency and accountability will safeguard the democratic values on which our nation stands.

With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

India to partner with France

 

Article link: India to partner with France, others at AI summit as US, China build walls  


Extract from the article:

The article highlights India's upcoming partnership with France and other nations at an AI summit. This collaboration comes at a time when the US and China are focusing on building separate walls in the technology sector.

The move signifies a shift in global partnerships and strategic alliances in the field of artificial intelligence, with India positioning itself as a key player in the international AI landscape.

India's proactive approach in forming partnerships with countries like France underscores its commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement.

By engaging in collaborative efforts at the AI summit, India aims to leverage the expertise and resources of partner nations to drive growth and competitiveness in the AI industry.

This strategic move also reflects India's aspiration to establish itself as a frontrunner in the global AI race, standing out amidst the dominance of major players like the US and China.


My Take:

Proposal for Increasing Your Digital Presence

"Reflecting on my earlier blog where I discussed strategies for enhancing digital presence, the current scenario of India partnering with France and others at an AI summit aligns perfectly with the concept of strategic collaboration.

The emphasis on leveraging partnerships echoes the importance of expanding digital outreach through alliances, showcasing foresight in navigating the evolving technological landscape."


Headlines from Newspapers

"In my previous blog post regarding analyzing news articles for content generation, the concept of curating information from various sources resonates with the idea of India partnering with multiple nations for AI advancement.

Just as I curated headlines from different newspapers for insightful content, India is strategically collating expertise from global partners to propel its AI initiatives forward."


Call to Action:

To all stakeholders involved in shaping India's AI partnerships, seize this opportunity to engage in collaborative dialogues and exchange of ideas for mutual growth and innovation.

Let's embrace this era of international cooperation in artificial intelligence to drive progress and foster a dynamic global AI ecosystem.


With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

Wednesday, 12 March 2025

Influencer boom fuels demand for managers

 

Article link: The Secret Struggle Behind India's Influencer Explosion

Extract from the article:

The article delves into the exponential growth of influencers in India, with their numbers soaring to almost 5 million individuals.

This surge has created a challenge in talent management and marketing agencies that are now struggling to keep up with the demand for influencer representation.

The comparison to Finland's population hints at the sheer magnitude of this influencer boom, signifying a significant shift in India's creator economy.

The article highlights the emerging adulting issue within this expanding influencer landscape, where agencies are faced with the task of effectively managing a population equivalent to a small country.

My Take:

TEN MILLION ENTREPRENEURS ?

"Reflecting on the concept of empowering a vast number of individuals to become entrepreneurs, I can see parallels between the need to nurture 10 million entrepreneurs and the management of a burgeoning influencer population.

Just as we proposed concrete actions in the past to empower individuals through entrepreneurship education, a similar proactive approach could assist in handling the influx of influencers and their representation challenges.

Introducing structured programs to train and support these influencers akin to teaching entrepreneurship in schools could enhance the sustainability and impact of this new wave of content creators."

Who are the Unknown ?

"In addressing the issue of job creation failing to match workforce growth, the scenario outlined in the blog resonates with the struggle faced by talent management agencies in handling the vast pool of influencers.

The article's emphasis on the need for solutions to known problems aligns with the current endeavor of finding effective strategies to manage the burgeoning influencer economy.

By recognizing the challenges and actively seeking solutions to bridge gaps in employment, similar proactive measures can be adopted in managing and supporting the burgeoning influencer community."

Call to Action:

To the talent management agencies mentioned in the article, I urge you to consider implementing structured training programs and support systems for influencers to navigate the challenges of representation effectively.

By proactively addressing the adulting problem within the creator economy, you can foster a more sustainable and empowered influencer ecosystem.

Let's work towards equipping influencers with the tools and resources they need to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.

With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in

Deepseek on our servers

 

Article link: Will test Deepseek on our servers while developing own AI model


Extract from the article:

The Hindu BusinessLine reports that India, under the leadership of Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Minister of Electronics and Information Technology, is set to test DeepSeek AI on its servers.

This initiative showcases a forward-thinking two-pronged strategy whereby The Hindu BusinessLine will develop its AI model while hosting DeepSeek on India's servers.

Minister Vaishnaw's proactive approach to embracing advanced technology demonstrates a commitment to innovation and technological advancement in India's IT sector.

This move not only highlights the government's support for cutting-edge technology but also underlines a strategic synergy between public and private entities to foster AI development.

By leveraging state-of-the-art AI technology like DeepSeek, India aims to strengthen its position in the global tech landscape.

Minister Vaishnaw's emphasis on hosting the AI model locally is a significant step towards data sovereignty, ensuring that sensitive information remains within the country's borders.


My Take:

1. Thank You, Ashwini Vaishnawji

"In my blog from April 2023, 'Thank You, Ashwini Vaishnawji,' I reflected on the absence of regulations for Artificial Intelligence in India, a topic that Minister Vaishnaw has addressed.

While discussing the ethical concerns and risks associated with AI, it is commendable to see the government's efforts towards standardizing responsible AI practices.

Minister Vaishnaw's recent actions regarding hosting DeepSeek AI align with the government's stance on fostering technological innovations while maintaining a proactive regulatory approach."

2. Should the world press pause on AI

"In another blog post, I touched upon the comparison between the advancements in AI and the historical context of Nuclear Weapons, raising questions about the potential risks of AI.

Minister Vaishnaw's decision to host DeepSeek AI locally resonates with the concerns raised in the blog post about responsible AI development.

By focusing on the implications of AI on a global scale, Minister Vaishnaw's actions underscore the importance of ethical considerations in AI research and implementation."


Call to Action:

To Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, continue fostering collaborations between public and private sectors to drive AI innovation while prioritizing responsible and ethical AI practices.

Embrace transparency and open dialogue to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in the AI landscape.

Your initiatives to host DeepSeek AI reflect a commitment to technological advancement, and I encourage further steps towards inclusive and sustainable AI development.


With regards, 

Hemen Parekh

www.My-Teacher.in