National – Insight

Unsolved Mystery: The Chilling Tale of Mumbai’s Beer Man Killings

Pihu Sharma — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 15:27:22 +0000

The story of the “Beer Man” killings in Mumbai involves a series of murders that took place between October 2006 and January 2007. The nickname “Beer Man” was given to the unidentified serial killer because beer bottles were found near the bodies of the victims.

Here is a summary of the key points:

Victims: The killer targeted homeless men, often found in secluded areas of South Mumbai. There were seven confirmed victims, and each was killed in a similar manner, often by being bludgeoned to death.
Crime Scenes: The murders took place in various parts of South Mumbai, including the Marine Lines and Churchgate areas. The presence of beer bottles at the crime scenes was a signature element, leading to the moniker “Beer Man.”
Investigation: The Mumbai police launched an extensive investigation, but the case proved challenging due to the lack of witnesses and concrete evidence. The randomness of the attacks and the lack of a clear motive further complicated the investigation.
Arrest: In January 2008, Ravindra Kantrole, a 42-year-old former police informer with a criminal background, was arrested and charged with the murders. Kantrole had been linked to one of the crime scenes through forensic evidence. He was initially convicted of one murder but later acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
Aftermath: Despite the arrest and trial of Kantrole, doubts remained about whether he was indeed the “Beer Man.” The lack of conclusive evidence and the subsequent acquittal left the case unresolved in the eyes of many.

The “Beer Man” killings remain one of Mumbai’s most notorious unsolved murder cases, shrouded in mystery and speculation.

Burari Repeat: A Tragic Mass Suicide in Madhya Pradesh

Pihu Sharma — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 16:05:29 +0000

Early on Monday, local police received a distress call alerting them to the situation. Upon arrival, they found Rakesh Dodwa, 27, his wife Lalita Dodwa, 25, and their children Laxmi, 9, Prakash, 7, and Akshay, 5, hanging inside their residence. The shocking discovery was made at around 7 AM, leaving the community in deep sorrow and confusion.

“The report of five deaths in Ravdi village, Sondwa tehsil, was received at 7 AM today,” confirmed a police official. The authorities have launched a thorough investigation led by the Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) of Alirajpur to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

This case bears a chilling resemblance to the Burari incident in Delhi, where 11 family members were found dead in their home nearly four years ago. The Burari case shocked the nation, with the family discovered hanging in their home in a ritualistic manner, bound and blindfolded. Investigations revealed that the family had been influenced by delusional beliefs and a shared psychotic disorder, leading to their tragic demise.

The bodies in Alirajpur have been sent for autopsy, as investigators work diligently to piece together the events that led to this heartbreaking outcome. The community is left grappling with the emotional impact of such a profound loss, seeking answers and solace in the face of such a grim reality.

As the investigation unfolds, local authorities are committed to providing clarity and support to the affected community. The emotional toll of such incidents is profound, and efforts are being made to address the mental health and financial well-being of families to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The tragic deaths of Rakesh, Lalita, Laxmi, Prakash, and Akshay Dodwa serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within our communities. As we mourn their loss, we must also strive to understand and address the root causes of such tragedies, working collectively to prevent them from recurring. The investigation in Alirajpur continues, with authorities determined to provide answers and prevent future occurrences of such devastating events.

Lakshadweep’s Ambitious Water Villa Project: A New Era in Indian Ecotourism

Pihu Sharma — Wed, 29 May 2024 13:39:28 +0000

India’s tourism landscape is on the cusp of a significant transformation with the introduction of premium Maldives-style water villas in the picturesque islands of Lakshadweep. This groundbreaking initiative aims to establish Lakshadweep as a premier destination for ecotourism, blending luxurious accommodations with environmental sustainability. The project is not only a testament to India’s growing tourism ambitions but also an exemplary model of sustainable development and public-private partnership.

Project Overview

The administration of Lakshadweep has announced the development of three premium water villa projects on the Minicoy, Suheli, and Kadmat islands. With an estimated investment of INR 800 crore, this project marks India’s first venture into the realm of water villas, similar to those that attract tourists to the Maldives. The villas will offer a unique, immersive experience, allowing guests to stay in luxurious accommodations set above the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

The breakdown of the projects includes 150 keys for Minicoy at a cost of INR 319 crore, 110 keys for Suheli at INR 247 crore, and another 110 keys for Kadmat with an investment of INR 240 crore. This distribution is based on a comprehensive analysis of location suitability, technical feasibility, and financial viability. The administration has also ensured that all necessary clearances, including Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) approvals, are secured in advance, expediting the project’s progress.

Economic and Environmental Balance

The project’s core objective is to bolster maritime economic growth with a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism. The administration’s commitment to environmental protection is evident in its approach to development. By employing eco-friendly materials and pre-cast concrete technology, the ecological footprint of the construction is minimized. Additionally, the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, further underscores the project’s sustainable ethos.

The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) has played a pivotal role in assessing the viability and environmental impact of the water villas. Their involvement ensures that the development harmonizes with the delicate marine ecosystem, particularly the fragile coral reefs that are integral to the region’s biodiversity. This scientific approach guarantees a balance between enhancing local livelihoods and preserving natural resources.

Boosting Local Economy and Employment

One of the most significant benefits of the water villa project is its potential to boost the local economy. Tourism is a powerful engine for economic growth, and the development of high-end accommodations will attract both domestic and international visitors. This influx of tourists will create numerous employment opportunities for the local population, ranging from hospitality services to ancillary support sectors such as transportation and local crafts.

Furthermore, the public-private partnership model ensures that the project is financially sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders involved. The government’s proactive role in facilitating permits and clearances reduces bureaucratic hurdles, encouraging private investors to participate in the region’s development.

A Paradigm Shift in Indian Tourism

The Lakshadweep water villa project represents a paradigm shift in Indian tourism, positioning the country as a competitor to established luxury destinations like the Maldives. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify India’s tourism offerings, providing unique experiences that cater to high-end travelers.

In conjunction with similar projects in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India is poised to become a leader in sustainable island tourism. These developments are aligned with the goals of NITI Aayog and the central government’s vision of creating a world-class tourism infrastructure that is both economically viable and environmentally responsible.

BORROWED DREAMS: THE CANADIAN EXPERIENCE

Pranjali Pandey — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 08:50:33 +0000

“If I would’ve invested the same amount that I did here in Canada, in India, I would’ve had better opportunities in consideration to what I see in Canada” these are the sentiments being echoed by Indian students who spent a good amount of money to migrate to Canada for higher education.

The Canadian Experience, a documentary made and produced by Insight in collaboration with the Centre for Policy Research and Governance (CPRG) with ANI as Media Partner, sheds light on the reality of Indian students’ life in Canada. With a huge housing crisis, crumbling healthcare, nominal employment opportunities, and a fee discrepancy, Indian Students now would much prefer to stay and study in India rather than migrate to Canada which ranks among the most preferred countries for higher education.

Along with the USA and UK, Canada has been in the top three most preferred places for pursuing higher education for Indian students. Every year almost 3 Lakh students migrate to Canada, what is so special about it? Is it the lifestyle? Job opportunities? Quality Education? Our documentary exposes that it is none of the above and rather, just the good marketing and the glossy picture being painted by these ‘agencies’ that make families spend lakhs on fulfilling their children’s “Canadian Dream.”

This documentary interviews two Indian students Ms. Vrinda Kathore and Mr. Namra Shukla who pursued higher education in Canada, and these two students tell tales of not only monetary loss but also lack of basic amenities and racial discrimination.

Our objective through this documentary is to expose that one realises their mistake almost instantly when they land in Canada. The country has minimal livelihood in its northern part due to the harsh weather conditions, and it is there that the majority of the population has accumulated in Southern Canada, giving rise to a major housing crisis. The year 2022 saw the lowest vacancy rate in the country while rents kept on increasing due to high demand.

The Rental Market report by CMHC suggests that there has been a 9.6% increase in rental prices from April 2022 to April 2023, i.e., A student who would be paying $1827 in April 2022 now had to pay $2004 in April 2023 for the very same property. It is because of this that international students have to compromise on decent living, and have to often live in overcrowded small apartments with no personal space or hygiene maintained.

Canada has created an image of a country well-equipped with world-class healthcare facilities but in reality, it is crumbling. Vrinda tells us how her friend who got a burn had to sit in the waiting room for 5-6 hours just to even be looked at by the doctor. She herself got a waiting time of 4-5 months for something as simple as an X-ray since it is classified as a ‘non-emergency’ case.

Canada’s 65% of land is covered in snow, it has long harsh cold winters and short cool summers. It gets difficult for an Indian for whom sunlight is such an essential part of daily life. Seasonal Depression is common in international students who have to spend months with temperatures reaching -40 degrees cel. Namra, who had to live in a basement, shares how he did not see sunlight for days if he didn’t step out, and snow-covered roads make it difficult to commute on a daily basis while the buses halt their operations.

Most students dream that getting good jobs comes with the ‘abroad package’, but the reality is strikingly different, there is a severe lack of job opportunities due to which even the brightest of minds have to work in low-paying jobs just to sustain themselves and pay off their debts. In India, almost all colleges have a placement cell in place that offers internships and job opportunities, however, such is not the case in Canadian colleges [Georgian College, Barrie in this case] which boast of high-paying jobs on their websites.

Another factor that contributes to Indian students regretting their decision is the discrepancy in fee structure where an international student is paying significantly higher than a domestic student. Where an international student is paying $8000 for a semester, a domestic student is paying $1500 for the same. It is worth noting that while Indian colleges waived or decreased the fee during online classes in the pandemic, no such luxury was given to these students in Canada. It has been calculated that Indian students contribute 8 Billion dollars to the Canadian Economy.

What will shock you the most is the revelation that Cape Breton University in Nova Scotia admitted students beyond its capacity and is now making Indian students study in nearby Cineplex due to a lack of infrastructure. What should be called out is being marketed as an ‘innovation’ by the college in question. As Vrinda fairly points out- they are running a ‘facade’ in the name of quality education.

Why should a student invest a hefty amount and not even get a proper return? Why should a person choose a place so miserable when they can get far better education and facilities in their own country?

The question remains- Is the Canadian Experience worth it?

Watch the full documentary, made in collaboration with the Centre of Policy Research and Governance (CPRG) and released via Asian News International (ANI) to experience what has yet been unseen and unheard. This documentary went on to feature on a prime time show on NDTV within 24 Hours of release, with subsequent coverage on CNN-News18.

Preserving India’s Decaying Treasure: Kautilya’s Arthashastra Manuscript

Nitika — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:44:07 +0000

In a modest room within the cash-strapped Oriental Research Institute (ORI) in Mysuru, an ancient manuscript lies neglected, silently withering away without proper care. This fragile document, inscribed on palm leaves, holds the essence of one of India’s most treasured works—Kautilya’s Arthashastra. Despite its historical significance, this invaluable manuscript remains tucked away, vulnerable to the ravages of time.

The Arthashastra, composed in Sanskrit during the Mauryan Empire, stands as one of the oldest treatises on governance, military strategy, politics, economics, justice, and the responsibilities of rulers. Scholars estimate its creation around the second century BCE, and it is attributed to Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, who served as the prime minister to Chandragupta, the first of the Mauryan rulers.

After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, this remarkable document was lost to history until its serendipitous rediscovery by Rudrapatna Shamashastri, a Sanskrit scholar and librarian, in 1905. Shamashastri stumbled upon the original Arthashastra hidden among stacks of palm leaf manuscripts at the ORI, founded by Mysore’s Wodeyar kings in 1891. The institute became part of the University of Mysore in 1916 and houses an impressive collection of around 70,000 rare palm-leaf manuscripts.

Recognizing the significance of his discovery, Shamashastri painstakingly transcribed the Arthashastra onto fresh palm leaves and published it in 1909. His scholarly dedication extended to translating it into English in 1915.

The revelation of the Arthashastra was a pivotal moment in Indian historiography, debunking the British Raj’s belief that India’s concepts of governance and military administration were influenced by the Greeks. Additionally, it usurped Niccolo Machiavelli’s “The Prince,” a 16th-century work, as the world’s oldest treatise on political philosophy.

Despite its profound historical importance, the original Arthashastra languishes in neglect within the ORI’s confines. S.A. Krishnaiah, a member of the institute’s committee, laments that the document is stored in a cushioned box, wrapped in cloth, without the protection of an air conditioner or dehumidifier. This neglect pains those who understand its true worth.

The ORI itself has grappled with financial constraints for years. In 2012, the US government provided a grant of $50,000 to address structural issues like a leaking roof. The Ford Foundation contributed dehumidifiers and air conditioners, but these have fallen into disrepair. The institute has also weathered two fires in the past due to faulty wiring in 1996 and 1998, sparking concerns that the Arthashastra and its collection of approximately 70,000 historic documents and manuscripts could have been reduced to ashes.

While efforts have been made to improve the institute’s infrastructure, including rewiring, relocating the book depot, and implementing painting and dust-proofing measures, the preservation of fragile documents has not received adequate attention. Research scholars who utilise the ORI’s resources assert that it lacks sufficient funding to manage manuscripts, hire experts, and maintain the building.

Dr. Shivarajappa, the director of ORI, acknowledges the need for focused efforts to revive the original Arthashastra document. He has proposed a grant of ₹3.5 crore from the government for this purpose and seeks additional staffing with expertise in preserving and documenting ancient manuscripts. His commitment to preserving this national treasure is underscored by his personal initiative to learn the latest techniques during a visit to the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune.

Despite its challenges, the ORI continues to welcome approximately 5,000 visitors each year, including scholars and students from around the world. Dr. Hemantha Kumar, the vice-chancellor of the University of Mysore, has pledged increased funding for ORI and emphasised that funds have been designated for the Arthashastra’s preservation. Additionally, the institute has the freedom to propose digitization projects for the Arthashastra as needed.

While digitization ensures broader access to the Arthashastra’s contents, the original manuscript remains incredibly fragile. Prof. L.N. Swamy, a senior history faculty member at the University of Mysore and former official of the Karnataka archaeology department, underscores that palm leaves have a longer lifespan than many other materials. However, even palm leaf documents require preservation efforts like air conditioning, dehumidifiers, and citronella oil coating to extend their lives.

As the original Arthashastra manuscript teeters on the brink of deterioration, scholars like Krishnaiah and others advocate for immediate, scientifically guided preservation measures. Regardless of the existence of copies and digitised versions, the value of safeguarding this priceless historical artifact cannot be overstated. It is a testament to India’s rich intellectual heritage, and its protection is a duty that must be upheld for future generations.

Privacy vs Security: Examining India’s Groundbreaking Data Protection Bill 2023

Nitika — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:38:11 +0000

India’s journey towards enacting a comprehensive data protection law reached a significant milestone as the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, was passed by the Rajya Sabha, following the Lok Sabha’s approval earlier. This legislative development signifies the country’s second attempt to establish a robust privacy framework. While this achievement is noteworthy, the Bill has sparked discussions, with privacy experts expressing concerns about certain provisions, including exemptions for the central government and its potential impact on online censorship and the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

Key Provisions of the Bill

Exemptions for the Centre:
One of the contentious aspects of the Bill is the provision that allows the central government to exempt “any instrumentality of the state” from the adverse consequences of data processing, citing reasons such as national security, foreign relations, and maintenance of public order. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw defended these exemptions, citing scenarios like natural disasters and police investigations where swift action may be required without obtaining consent for data processing.

Comparison with GDPR:
Shri. Vaishnaw pointed out that the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) contains 16 exemptions, while India’s Bill has only four. However, privacy advocates argue that the Indian legislation grants broader powers to the government.

Penalties and Platform Blocking:
The Bill introduces penalties for entities that violate data protection norms. If an entity is penalized on multiple occasions, the central government, after a hearing, can decide to block its platform in the country. This provision adds a layer of enforcement not present in the 2022 draft.

Online Censorship Concerns:
Experts have raised concerns that the Bill, particularly the exemptions and penalties, could contribute to the existing online censorship regime, particularly under Section 69(A) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Impact on the Right to Information Act:
Critics worry that the Bill’s provisions protecting the personal data of government functionaries could potentially undermine the RTI Act by making it difficult to share such information with RTI applicants. Shri. Vaishnaw argued that the Bill harmonises RTI and personal data protection.

Data Protection Board:
The control of the Centre in appointing members of the Data Protection Board, which deals with privacy-related grievances and disputes, has been retained. The Chief Executive of the board will be appointed by the central government, raising questions about its independence.

Leeway for Data Processing:
The Bill allows certain “legitimate uses” of personal data without explicit consent. This includes national security, offering services, and employment-related matters.

Age of Consent:
The Centre can process data of citizens below 18 years without parental consent if the platform ensures data processing in a “verifiably safe manner,” addressing concerns in sectors like ed-tech and healthcare.

Cross-Border Data Flows:
The Bill simplifies cross-border data flows, moving from a whitelist to a blacklist approach, allowing data flows by default to all regions unless prohibited by the government. This aims to ensure business continuity.

Significant Data Fiduciaries:
The government can categorise entities as “significant data fiduciaries” based on factors like data volume, electoral democracy risks, and national security impact. Social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp may fall under this category, necessitating the appointment of data protection officers.

Conclusion

The passage of the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023, in India marks a significant step toward establishing a comprehensive data protection framework. However, the Bill’s provisions have raised concerns about exemptions, online censorship, and potential impacts on the RTI Act. As the Bill awaits the President’s assent to become law, it reflects India’s ongoing efforts to strike a balance between privacy protection and innovation, all while addressing the challenges posed by the digital age.

The implications of this legislation will be closely watched by various stakeholders, including businesses, privacy advocates, and citizens, as India navigates the evolving landscape of digital data protection. Balancing individual privacy rights with national security interests is a complex task, and the effectiveness of the Bill in achieving this balance will be revealed in its implementation.

The End of an Era: The Demise of India’s Most Notorious Bandit, Veerappan

Nitika — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:33:33 +0000

In the dense forests of southern India, a criminal was born—a legendary criminal that would go on to terrorize the region for nearly two decades. This legend was Veerappan, the infamous bandit, poacher, and smuggler who carved a fearsome reputation for himself in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Veerappan’s saga of crime and evasion would captivate the nation and leave an indelible mark on India’s history.

Born as Koose Muniswamy Veerappan on January 18, 1952, in Gopinatham, Mysore (now Karnataka), Veerappan’s journey into infamy began at a young age. He was drawn to the life of poaching and smuggling, and it wasn’t long before he committed his first murder at the tender age of 17. By 18, he had joined a gang of poachers, expanding their operations to include sandalwood and ivory smuggling, abduction, and more. His victims primarily consisted of police officers, forest officials, and locals whom he suspected of being informers.

In 1986, Veerappan was captured and briefly taken into custody, but his cunning and resourcefulness saw him escape the clutches of the law. It was from this point that a relentless cat-and-mouse chase between Veerappan and the authorities began.

The governments of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka convened a special task force dedicated to capturing Veerappan in 1990, but his ability to evade arrest was nothing short of astounding. He had cultivated an extensive information network and had earned the loyalty of impoverished locals through his financial contributions.

Over the years, Veerappan’s reign of terror continued unabated. In the year 2000, he made headlines by kidnapping the renowned Kannada film star Rajkumar, and holding him captive for a harrowing 108 days. Rajkumar’s release reportedly came at the steep price of a substantial ransom.

Veerappan’s criminal exploits extended beyond his infamous kidnappings. He was wanted for the murders of more than 120 people, including police officers and forest officials. His insatiable appetite for elephant poaching led to the deaths of over 2,000 majestic creatures. Additionally, he was a prolific smuggler, responsible for trafficking millions of dollars worth of sandalwood and ivory.

Despite the relentless pursuit by law enforcement, Veerappan managed to outwit authorities for nearly two decades. His ability to escape from one state to another due to political instability, as well as jurisdictional issues that hindered police cooperation, made his capture an elusive goal.

However, the tides of fate would eventually turn against Veerappan on that fateful day—October 18, 2004. Unbeknownst to him, undercover police officers from the Tamil Nadu Special Task Force had orchestrated an ingenious plan to lure him out of his forest stronghold. They had planted an informant within his ranks, allowing them to discover that Veerappan needed to visit a hospital in Salem for his eye.

As the bandit unknowingly climbed into an ambulance arranged by the police, he failed to notice a critical detail—his destination, “Salem,” had been misspelt as “Selam” on the ambulance. This typographical error, born of haste, would prove to be Veerappan’s downfall.

Within minutes, the ambush unfolded as the Special Task Force fired 338 bullets at the ambulance. Veerappan, the once-feared poacher, was fatally wounded. The manhunt that had spanned a decade reached its conclusion in just 20 minutes.

Veerappan’s demise marked the end of an era—one defined by fear, violence, and audacious criminal exploits. His name will forever be associated with the dark and shadowy world of poaching and smuggling that he dominated for so long. The battle to capture Veerappan came at a steep cost, with the governments of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka spending over ₹100 crore.

As his life story unravelled, it became clear that Veerappan’s criminal journey had begun under the influence of his uncle, Saalvai Gounder, a notorious poacher and sandalwood smuggler. From poaching elephants for their tusks to committing his first murder at age 17, Veerappan’s descent into infamy was swift and relentless.

Despite the political and jurisdictional challenges that allowed him to evade capture for years, Veerappan’s reign of terror came to an end, leaving behind a legacy of crime, violence, and a manhunt that captured the nation’s attention.

Veerappan, the once-feared bandit with a formidable moustache, had met his match, and his era of infamy had come to a close.

India’s Remarkable Achievements: The 3D-Printed Post Office in Bengaluru

Nitika — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 20:14:58 +0000

In a groundbreaking achievement, India has unveiled its first 3D-printed post office, located in Bengaluru’s Cambridge Layout. This remarkable feat, completed in just 43 days, represents a significant leap forward in construction technology and efficiency. The inauguration ceremony was held virtually, with Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw leading the event. The project was executed by Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) in collaboration with the expertise of IIT Madras, revolutionising traditional construction methods.

Efficiency Meets Innovation

The India Post’s 3D-printed post office covers a built-up area of 1,021 square feet, showcasing a striking blend of efficiency and innovation. What makes this project truly exceptional is the use of 3D concrete printing technology, a fully automated building construction method. A robotic printer meticulously deposits concrete layer by layer, following the approved design. Special-grade concrete, which hardens rapidly, ensures the bonding between layers, allowing for the swift creation of the structure.

George Abraham, Head of Operations (South and East) at L&T, emphasised the impact of robotic intervention in achieving this remarkable feat. Compared to the conventional construction method, which typically takes 6-8 months, the 3D-printed post office was completed in a mere 43 days. This not only accelerates the construction process but also reduces costs significantly.

Cost-Effective and Sustainable

The 3D-printed post office project was executed at a cost of Rs 23 lakh, making it approximately 30-40 percent more cost-effective than traditional construction methods. Professor Manu Santhanam, from the Building Technology and Construction Management Division at IIT Madras, highlighted the critical factors that contributed to the success of concrete 3D printing. He explained that the project incorporated indigenous machines and robots while utilizing a special concrete material with exceptional properties.

IIT Madras and L&T conducted extensive meetings to ensure the project’s success. Professor Ravindra Gettu from IIT-M played a pivotal role as the primary advisor, ensuring the compatibility of the 3D-printed technology with conventional construction. The project involved detailed assessments of materials, structural design, construction methodology, and concept approval. Additionally, Professor Gettu conducted site visits to ensure on-site quality and provided guidance on curing and technical matters.

Innovative Technology for the Future

The 3D printing technology employed in the post office project was flexible and adaptable. It allowed for curved surfaces and adapted to site dimensions, eliminating the constraints of flat walls. This technology enabled continuous reinforced concrete footing and three-layer walls, combining concrete and reinforced concrete for added strength and durability. Moreover, it facilitated the incorporation of weather-proofing and utilities within the walls, enhancing construction efficiency.

The Future of 3D Printing

Developers believe that 3D printing’s unique ability to enable individual customization and weather-proofing will play a vital role in housing-related construction. Chief Postmaster General of Karnataka Circle, Rajendra Kumar, noted that the larger goal is to harness 3D printing technology for low-cost housing projects. Plans are underway to construct post offices across 400 vacant sites in the state, where postal services are currently inaccessible. This pioneering project is expected to serve as a blueprint for the future development of affordable, efficient, and sustainable construction methods using 3D printing technology.

Conclusion

India’s first 3D-printed post office in Bengaluru stands as a testament to the country’s progress in construction technology. With its speed, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability, 3D printing has the potential to revolutionise the construction industry and address pressing challenges, including low-cost housing. As the nation looks to expand this innovative approach to post offices and beyond, it opens doors to a brighter and more efficient future in the realm of construction and infrastructure development.

India’s Data Privacy Act introduces the “Right to be Forgotten”

Pranjali Pandey — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:04:29 +0000

The Right to be Forgotten holds significant importance in the digital age, where personal information is easily accessible and can have enduring consequences. It’s a legal principle in some jurisdictions, primarily the European Union in their GDPR , that allows individuals to request the removal of their personal information from online platforms under certain circumstances. India, with their latest legislation- Digital Personal Data Privacy Act incorporates this right for citizens to leverage.

Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who has also been a strong advocate of Digital Privacy since 2010 recently said while interacting with students of Delhi University that ‘Citizens have the right to say that I gave you consent to use my data and no I want that data and my digital footprint to be removed from this platform.’

Right to be Forgotten safeguards individuals’ privacy and empowers them to regain control over their personal data. In an era where online information can persist indefinitely, this right enables people to request the removal of outdated or irrelevant data that might no longer be accurate or necessary. This clause also vouches for family members who can opt for the removal of the social media profiles of the deceased people.

Secondly, the Right to be Forgotten fosters a balance between privacy and freedom of expression. While it allows individuals to request the removal of certain information, it also requires careful consideration of public interest and the right to access information. This concept encourages responsible data handling practices among organizations and platforms, ultimately promoting a more transparent and respectful digital environment where individuals can exercise their rights without stifling free speech.

The DPDP Bill was passed in Parliament in early August, read more about it here.