Ipsita Pathak, 16
Daughter of Dependra Pathak, Joint Commissioner, Delhi Police, and Geeta Pathak, homemaker
Ipsita says she has been very lucky as far as family attention is concerned. As she is the only daughter and also the only grand-daughter in the family, she has always garnered all the attention at home. Yes, her policeman father tends to be very busy with his various responsibilities but her mother Geeta Pathak is always there for her.
Ipsita says though her father has the image of a tough cop, in reality he is an “amazing, loving, caring and compassionate” person. “Whenever I have a question regarding anything, I just run to him,” she says. “He always has the answer, be it related to science, politics or math. I consider him my role model; he is hardworking, diligent and has vast knowledge about all subjects.”
Both Ipsita and her brother were born in Delhi but the family’s roots lie in Bihar. “My childhood was full of exciting trips to our village, where we took a break from the busy life of the city and relaxed in the calm environment of the village,” she remembers, adding that it was during these breaks that she developed a close bond with her brother, who is six years her senior.
A student of Class XI of Sanskriti School, Ipsita’s daily routine includes pursuing her hobbies and “studying a lot”. Mathematics is her favourite subject, but chemistry and physics also fascinate her. As for extra-curricular activities, dancing has been a longtime passion for her.
Her aspirations are to work hard and “someday be successful enough to repay the world, the country and especially my parents, for all that they have done and continue to do for me,” she says.
What does Smart City mean to you?
Where people enjoy comfortable lives, perform tasks efficiently and easily, and where environment is protected and natural resources are conserved.
Do you think Delhi is or can be a Smart City?
Delhi is not a Smart City, but it is progressing towards that with technology and people’s efforts.
Things you like about the city.
Activities and programmes, diversity of its people who come from various cultures, religions and traditions, monuments and Chandni Chowk for its food.
Things you don’t like about Delhi.
Extremely hot summers, traffic jams, rising pollution and disappearance of several species of animals.
How would you improve the city if you were the Chief Minister?
Introduce measures to help improve air quality, waste disposal and public transport, and fix the over-exploitation of water.