Abir Bhushan, 15
Son of artist Bharti and Chandra Bhushan, Deputy Director-General, Centre for Science and Environment
Abir loves his iMac and dedicates much of his free time to computer coding. “Computers is one of the subjects I study, but I know much more than what is taught in the class when it comes to programming,” he says, and aspires to become a programmer and use his knowledge “for the benefit of people”.
At present, he is busy preparing for his Class X exams but that’s not stopping him from keeping track of the Indian Premier League matches as watching sports, especially cricket, is his stress-buster. Abir studies at Step by Step School in Noida and has opted for an International Curriculum, the Cambridge IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education). He says Maths, Computers and Chemistry are his forte, but French bothers him, and the problem lies with the right pronunciation.
With an environmental expert for father, Abir knows much about global warming and how it is impacting the climate on the planet. “Papa came back from the Paris climate talks and shared details on the people he met and the discussions he had. He discussed statistics like CO2 emission levels and what is being done globally,” says Abir.
The teenager supports the Delhi government’s Odd-Even car scheme but feels it should be developed further and no exemptions made for diesel taxis or any other vehicles. In his view, a better public transport and green vehicles are the best way to bring down pollution in the city.
Do you think Delhi is or can be a Smart City?
It’s a challenge as Delhi has a population of over 20 million, and providing access to water and other amenities is tough.
Things you like about Delhi
The infrastructure, the Feroz Shah Kotla Cricket Ground, Red Fort, and the parks.
Things you don’t like about the city
Traffic, pollution, people fighting on roads (road rage), crime against women and poor public transport.
What would you do to improve the city if you were Chief Minister?
I would ensure everyone has access to water and housing, and provide more job opportunities. I would implement the Odd-Even scheme, provide more facilities for start-ups and set up more playgrounds.