The Aadhar Card or Indian Unique Identification Card has been hailed as one of the best examples of the use of technology for social welfare schemes. Based on the biometric details of an individual, it gives them an identity card they can use anywhere.
For the economically weaker sections of India this card will become the basis on which they will get their subsidised rations, housing and access to welfare schemes. Getting the cards to every citizen of India is a task of gargantuan proportions.
The people of Bandgaon Block of West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand have been waiting in line for their card for about 3 years now. As there is no centre to make cards in their block, they have to travel to Khunti to fill out the formalities.
"We waste so much time and money while trying to get the necessary paperwork done; I don't know if I'll ever get my card," says one individual who has returned for a 3rd time to get his card.
The people demand that a centre be opened in Bandgaon block to help them make their Aadhar cards easily.
Call to Action: Please call the SDO of Chagalpur on 09431112142 and ask him to make sure a centre is opened in Bandgaon District.
Community Voice Is Hard to Define. We’re Trying Anyway.
This piece summarizes the key findings from eight research reports recently published by Video Volunteers exploring how community voice works, where it breaks down, and what it actually produces when it is taken seriously.
A Call for Research on AI’s Role in Amplifying the Insights of the Systemically Unheard
The article argues that systematically ignoring and silencing the voices of the poor and marginalized worldwide does not serve society or democracy well and must be countered. While new technologies such as AI could provide an opportunity for change, we contend that these technologies need to account more effectively for...