Digital downside

Though India is among the top nations in the world in software development, we have lagged behind in facilitating the spread of IT in services across sectors. Over the past decade though, we have been making up in many ways. Singapore leads in connectivity and speed, thanks to strong government impetus on using technology to deliver better citizen services, and in due course we too should catch up, despite our huge size. Singapore is the most tech-savvy government and the US, surprisingly, does not find a place in the top 10, which has two Asian and three Arab nations.

We must look to developing IT standards sector-wise to achieve seamless digitisation. We can work on this aspect in parallel, to provide ease of consumer use and reliability.

Navi Mumbai

Although social-media platforms are proving to be a breakthrough in message-transmission and broadcast of information across the globe, it is important to regulate the content and ensure that the technology is not misused to influence opinions or encourage false propaganda. At a time when elections are round the corner and the credibility/reliability of messaging-platforms is at stake, it is only fair that the data-intensive tech firms co-operate and participate in the goodwill-building exercise. Traceability of messages over social-media platforms in conjunction with underlying encryption/security can improve transparency/integrity.

Enforcement of stringent regulations on data-localisation/KYC and improved surveillance of transactions via application of AI/advanced technologies can facilitate relevant participation and reduce occurrences of spam/phishing. Further, adherence to information security/financial standards is a must to protect consumer-interests, as almost every social-media platform offers payment/transfer services. Better infrastructure, greater user-awareness and large-scale innovation can preserve public-confidence.

New Delhi

The recent interview of BCCI’s Chairman of Selection Committee MSK Prasad, regarding the World Cup selection process, was refreshing and clear on intent. As there is not much time left for the World Cup, the chairman struck the right chord by letting the world know that the selection process is almost complete.

This was, perhaps, aided by the performance of the young blood during the Australia-New Zealand series, the recently concluded Ranaji tournament and the pool of talented players available in the domestic cricket circuit. It is also welcome to note that for matters related to picking the Number 4 batsman and other issues that may arise in the selection of the World Cup team, the decision will rest with the team management, with zero interference from the selection committee.

Bengaluru

The recent Karnataka Budget has announced many sops for the farming community. The increased incentive to milk producers, by ₹1 per litre, though modest, is a welcome gesture. Such incentive schemes are already in place but dairy farmers face cash-flow problems due to delayed disbursal. Also, milk unions must pay producers based on the quality of milk, like in Amul, Gujarat. Otherwise, the farmers may not bother much about quality, which is the biggest concerns with regard to the unorganised sector.

Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

The article ‘State-run banks spurn risky lending to conserve capital’ (February 11) reflects the government’s lack of confidence in certain banks. The RBI stipulations mandate higher capital adequacy for banks with riskier borrower profiles, thus minimising risk of NPAs.

And, at the same time, the RBI makes a strong case for government infused funds to be utilised by performing banks. The moot point is whether the stipulations create equal opportunity for every bank to grow?

Chennai

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