The Other India
Whenever I come across weblogs that attempt to discuss and solve troubles of the world or a nation, I look upon them with a certain amount of skepticism. I do that not because they are trying their best to bring forth issues often sidelined by the mainstream media, but because of the enormous moral responsibility they carry on their shoulders when they commit to such a task.
My skepticism is about the commitment to the cause. The problems (of this world and our nation) are many. If you’re not honest or driven enough to run such a weblog, then you’ll be in contempt in the eyes of people who would put a good amount of faith in you and looking for a sense of direction from you.
So, here’s a cautious welcome to The Other India weblog. I hope you do realize the amount of responsibility you are carrying on your shoulders. I hope you have that needed fire in your belly to take-up those problems that never seem to end. And, I hope that you make an honest and sincere effort in finding solutions through your thoughtful topics and constructive discussions.
I am pained to see one or two posts that are telling rather than asking or encouraging a constructive discussion. The response is—obviously—strong from certain readers, and they begin to shake the value addition from knowledgeable folks who would otherwise contribute towards a solution, provide a way to tackle issues or offer help. Guys commenting—stop fighting about who is right and who is wrong, but think about how you contribute towards a solution. Throw some ideas, instead of condemning someone’s thought or a post. Or politely disagree. I pity those people whose sole purpose is to rake up a fight, turn a thoughtful topic into a personal that of a light entertainment for the mute audience. Social problems are never like math—I’m not an expert at even mentioning this—but, I believe are extremely complicated. So every bit of help or an honest opinion of thought—in my book—counts.
Also, I hope to see posts on how technology—a subject that I enjoy—is helping in bridging the gap. In fact, technology is one area where—I think—rapid strides are made: be it via communication (cell phones, internet kiosks, info-billboards), distribution of information (early warning systems, e-choupals, rural e-commerce, merchandising home produces, distance learning, the 100 dollar laptop), pilot projects (see Stockholm challenge), e-governance or be it in the form of provision of basic lighting, bio-gas for the betterment of the underprivileged. I believe technology is a subject that will bring solutions far quicker than by governance or by social means in India. Bringing ideas forth might even create entrepreneurs and initiatives like e-choupals towards the betterment of the nation.
So, good luck. I hope your topics create that much needed awareness and synergy among those that should know, and I hope that they lead towards some constructive efforts.
Thank you for the nice post. I hope you are still reading us!
May 31, 06 at 02:41