Debaditya S Jena, 15
Son of S S Jena, ex-chairman of National School of Open Learning and senior professor in IGNOU, and home-maker Kabita
Winner of the Science and Maths olympiads, Debaditya, wants to become a space scientist and address issues afflicting society. He loves in astronomy and making scientific projects for schools as a hobby. “These things come naturally to me. I could offer many solutions to the government through science as it fascinates me,” he says.
A Class X student of Gyan Bharati School, Saket, Debaditya promotes a clean and green environment among his friends and relatives and believes that the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan campaign can bring about behavioral change in society. “There are several issues and events that are happening today, issues that make me think about the repercussions on society at large. I wish there there would be an increased sense of brotherhood and tolerance in society,” he says.
Excited about the Central government’s Smart City project and Delhi’s attempt to transform itself, Debaditya insists that steps taken in a smart city can promote not only horizontal and vertical growth, but also ensure sustainable growth of the citizens’ livelihood.
“I have always encouraged him in whatever he does and look forward to a time when he will contribute towards creating a better society,” says his father.
Things you like about the city.
The Metro, fashionable markets, helpful and caring people, efficient Delhi Police, attempts to increase green belts and the cuisine.
What does Smart City mean to you?
Cities can only become smart if clear and transparent policies are formed and implemented uniformly based on the needs of citizens.
Do you think Delhi is or can be a Smart City?
Delhi has good communication technology and roads, but lacks electricity generation, waste disposal, water management and good public transport.
Things you don’t like about Delhi.
Pollution, uneven and dirty roads, congested localities, bad DTC buses, lack of public infrastructure and poor water and waste management, including cleaning of roads.
How would you improve the city if you were the Chief Minister?
I would make my government accessible to people using e-governance, re-plan all main roads for smoother traffic, and make it compulsory for all buildings to harvest rainwater.