2023 Reflections

As 2023 comes to an end, India continue to walk towards "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas" or Global version of it is "One Earth, One Family, and One Future". Everyone on the planet deserves decent living, to this to happen advancements in from different spheres technology must reach nook and corners of planet, when I say technology, I am not referring to narrow set of system components generally emphasized by Media and IT evangelists whose thinking is limited to computer language driven outcomes which excludes Physical Infrastructure that are essential but yet venerable to natural calamities viz.

1. Environmental infrastructure - Fresh water, drainage and water recycling
2. Shelter - Comfortable indoors with HVAC.
3. Utilities and ICT - electricity, gas and telecommunication.
4. Zoning, Security and Safety
5. Transportation - public transport, cycling, walking and car.
6. Energy and distribution system
7. Solid waste management and Upcycling.

The noteworthy calamity of 2023 is Cyclone Michaung. Its significance lies in being the most recent disaster, still vivid in public memory, and its equal impact on both urban and rural areas. Consequently, it is bound to influence the electoral outcomes of 2024.

More importantly, the public must urge the government and political establishment to adopt sustainable approaches.

How long will we tolerate individuals constructing housing in flood-prone areas, claiming insurance, and rebuilding again in the same flood-prone regions? This practice is poised to elevate insurance premiums for everyone.

While there are numerous protests addressing reservations in the education system, the question remains: are there concerted efforts to advocate for an increase in the number of high-quality universities?

It is said that

Our choices today shape the disasters of tomorrow.

It prudent to choose wisely what we vote for whom we vote for a sustainable future. It can not be disputed that "The government we elect is the government we deserve".

Many cities/ states in India, particularly those drenched by the monsoon, are susceptible to flooding since the baseline design and template is almost the same. Navi Mumbai and other small pockets may be exception to the rule.

I am hoping that at least 2024, voters will push the government towards holistic development, we must remember that we as a society sink and swim together as we are collectively responsible for public policies and their implementation.