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Impact of AI
In an interview with the British Prime Minister at Bletchley Park in London early last month, Elon Musk said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be the most destructive force in the history of the world. After its use, people will be out of work. People will work only for their own happiness. The statement of a successful entrepreneur like Musk cannot be taken lightly. He also said that it will have incomparable benefits in the field of education etc., and then there will be an era of Universal Basic High Income instead of Universal Basic Income, but side effects will also be visible. 28 countries including India, America, EU and China unanimously accepted Musk's concern by signing the 'Bletchley Declaration'. Britain announced the creation of a body to study the impacts of AI and how to avoid them. Musk's apprehension should be a big cause of concern for India. The government must ensure that the use of AI does not deprive workers and other professionals of livelihoods in this low per capita income country. But if its use helps farmers know when to apply which fertilizer and how much water in which field, or a poor girl from a remote village to get free and better education, then people will know about the disease before its occurrence and diagnosis. If it is known, then this technology can be considered not a destructive force, but also a blessing of science. If nuclear physics can make bombs, it can also provide clean energy and can be effective in medical treatment. India does not want technology that reduces work, but technology that increases knowledge and gives more productivity should be welcomed.
Nawaz Ashraf
Guwahati
Bitter truth
Usually, one tells a blatant lie to serve his ends to malign someone. But hardly have we seen anyone telling a blatant truth to serve his foe. It is none other than Badruddin Ajmal, the most controversial politician and boss of AIUDF, who has done this. Recently, in a press briefing, he said that smart city Guwahati would be a dead city without the presence of immigrants, whom we call Miyas. He is telling the blatant truth. During the time of Eid, one will not find any masons, rickshaw and cart pullers, taxi and city bus drivers, vegetable, meat and fish vendors, plumbers or labourers in the city. The daily lives of the citizens almost come to a grinding halt. The city becomes almost dead, as claimed by Badruddin Ajmal. But why does this happen? We, the Asomiyas, do not have anyone to replace them, as we have become beneficiaries of many governmental schemes, which have crippled us. AASU, AJYCP and the other so-called regional organizations should take note.
Before parting, I, as an Asomiya, want to congratulate Badruddin Ajmal for telling the blatant truth, which already has hurt the sentiments of the Asomiyas.
Is it not a wake-up call for the sons of the soil to be self-reliant?
Lanu Dutt Chowdhury.
Guwahati.
APSC cash-for-job scam
The APSC cash-for-job scam has smeared a bad colour on the prestigious Assam Public Service Commission and also reiterated the fact that, as long as the government is excessively involved in the Commission, this will remain a forever affair. The APSC should be given freedom and a proper background check should be conducted of all the members of the Commission before bringing them to the Board. The accused in the scam should be grilled and not given any slack, as they played with the futures of the serious aspirants. The parents of these accused should also be put under the interrogation light, as huge sums of money cannot be arranged by aspirants without the help of their parents.
Noopur Baruah,
Tezpur
Sustainable development and the society
Sustainable development emphasizes the interconnection of economic, social and environmental factors. It advocates equitable distribution of benefits, community participation and a long-term view, prioritizing environmental preservation. This approach recognizes cultural diversity and aims to improve overall quality of life, promoting a holistic journey towards development. It ensures equitable and better distribution of environmental resources, analyzes social behaviour and power dynamics etc. The purpose is to create awareness and promote environmental responsibility, social equity as well as economic viability for a balanced and prosperous world. The United Nation's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global agenda for a more sustainable and equitable future. The relationship between environmental planning and the SDGs is crucial.
Environmental planning plays a central role in achieving many of the SDGs related to sustainability, climate action and ecosystem preservation. Environmental planning involves various strategies, such as land use zoning, environmental impact assessment and policy development. To achieve these objectives, while balancing the needs of society and the environment, it also aims to balance economic growth with environmental preservation in the same breath.
Environmental planning for sustainable development is the dirtly needed to bring change in society and in the world. In order to bring about those changes, various steps have been taken, but these are not enough to make our environment sustainable. The roles and responsibility of various stakeholders given below become indispensable.
Bhaswati Borah
Gauhati University.
Kamakhya Temple: Where Myth and Spirituality Converge
Nestled amidst the lush hills of Assam, the Kamakhya Temple stands as a testament to centuries of rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance.
This ancient temple, located atop the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, is not just a place of worship, but a reservoir of myths and traditions, dating back over a millennium. Its mystique is amplified by the annual Ambubachi Mela, drawing pilgrims and curious souls from far and wide.
As one steps into the sacred precincts of Kamakhya, a sense of divine energy envelopes the air. A local priest, echoing the sentiments of many, shares, "Here, the divine feminine is revered, and the spiritual aura is palpable.“
Exploring the main structure unveils the intricate architecture, adorned with sculptures depicting various deities and mythological tales. The temple complex comprises multiple shrines, each with its unique significance, contributing to the tapestry of beliefs that converge at Kamakhya.
Delving into the history, we uncover tales of Kamakhya being one of the oldest of the 51 Shakti Peethas, associated with the goddess Sati. The Kamakhya Tantric practices further add layers of mysticism, attracting seekers of spiritual wisdom.
During the Ambubachi Mela, the temple witnesses a surge of devotees seeking blessings during the annual menstruation of the Goddess, symbolizing the power of fertility and creation. A devotee, with a sense of fulfillment, expresses, “Kamakhya is not just a temple; It's an experience that transcends the ordinary. The divine presence here leaves an indelible mark on one's soul.”
The Kamakhya Temple stands as a living testament to the intricate blend of spirituality, mythology, and cultural richness. Its allure goes beyond the physical structure, resonating with those who seek a connection with the divine in a profound and transformative way. As you stand on Nilachal Hill, overlooking the Brahmaputra River, Kamakhya whispers ancient truths, inviting all to partake in the spiritual journey it offers.
Krishna Boro
Tihu