Domesti-sizing the Internet

Domesti-sizing the Internet​

By: Amit Bhushan Date: 23rd Feb. 2020

The political debates are mostly debates of convenience; convenience for the Netas in power, that is. The nationalism debates spurred by the CAA and anti-CAA protests are one such example. Each side has a small cross-section of supporters and with which a dramatic concoction is sought to be created, almost filling-in the entire newsmedia space day after days. It seems to have become almost immaterial that the larger public voted for their own self-interest to choose electoral candidates in the latest state electoral round. The issues that have dominated is ‘better administration’ of schools, health-centers etc. though a slew of freebies may also have done its trick, however this again was made possible by ‘improved administration and resulting savings’ in other governance areas. Basically, an attempt was made by national parties to ‘engage’ public on an ‘emotive’ nationality related question on the base of somewhat tricky ‘law-making’. While the winner too may not have been totally away from making their sides ‘known’ over the issue, however their plank for ‘engaging public’ was different for sure. What we see again is throw-back of emotive issues by the media however, with ‘engaging’ issues taking a back-seat. Clearly, it seems that neither the opposition or challengers elsewhere or the commercial news media has quickly lost interest in ‘engaging’ with public with the waning of the ‘political party’s interest’.

What we witness now is that ‘improving administration’ has taken a back seat in news media and the freebies offered along with Hanuman etc. are the talk of the day. Clearly, it reflects what is not desired as a discussion by the news media, parties and Netas of the day and shunning of responsibilities by those responsible with the news media in cahoots. Its behaviour not receiving public scrutiny is then publicized as ‘corruption’ not being an issue of any political dimension and this is likely to remain so even post the results of the Delhi polls. Then we have sundry Political Goonda elements with education and other interests being let off on bail in politically sensational ‘cases’, while the news media focussing non-political elements with equally or even more heineous track-records. While some elements in the news media did raise some noise around state of state-run educational institutions bereft of teachers, government recruitments and ‘ghotala’ thereunder, GST still not ‘freeing-up logistics’, illegal mining etc., however it is the news-carriers that have slipped downwards rather than the perpetrators with political backing. Clearly the balancing ‘political interests’ is much more of a priority rather than ‘bringing about a change’ as is often posed by the leadership of most of the parties with news-media often following suit.

Now asking for ‘political change’ is becoming a thing of fashion, especially amongst Netas with political backing (they may or may not have active/visible support of parties). Such Netas seek to achieve is not the replacement of Netas but want to direct public ire towards some engineered replacement of faces in governace, without any exposure of corrupt practices/systemic failures. What is perhaps not noted that though ruling party has failed to consolidate votes/power by leveraging non-issues, however even the principal opposition at the national has been return a duck with its concentration over non-issues. Only solate the principal opposition may have is about being able to coordinate and steer these parties, however a loss in some of the states rules by it, or failure of gambit in some of the smaller states would again prove to be the namesis of such a strategy, which the ruling party may already be aware off. For the government, it remains on the edge as string of losses in states under its rule may not be such a good omen or message to public although they may be under further scrutiny than just the state elections. It may better if states under respective fold are pushed to make progress on the development issues, on encouraging entrepreneurship and investments, improve public services like education, health-care, water resource management, sanitation, mineral resource management etc. It may help if the national parties remain focussed on states than on generic messaging, which in any case has lost meaning overtime.

Political change often begins with a big idea is forgotten. The idea should have power to mobilize support from large cross-section of people. Lately only one idea has shown this potential which is domesti-sizing the internet. A host of start ups have sprung up and have been successful in mobilizing people to create content in vernacular and have used this ‘power’ to engage with people who can only read/write in vernacular language. So far this has largely been without much incentive/support from the government either at center or at state level even though each of them have respective claims on promoting start ups and also leading in use of deploying technology to ameliorate situation of public. The governments including the one run by newbie party have spent crores on ‘communicating with public’, but have generated precious little ‘content’ to engage with ordinary public, a fact which will simply need to ‘change’ in this electoral round consider ‘which types’ are to be wooed by the parties/Netas and this has to happen very fast and in a much more sustained manner for this type of campaign to reach the target audience. However for now very few in politics seem to care even if the ‘smart phone’ seem to be showing an ever-rising penetration to increasing lower level of politico-economic strata. India thus has shown potential for not only ‘Bujhailo-ki Naahi’ but also ‘Hukkuna-mata’. Let the ‘Game’ evolve….

 

[Swaswati Borpuzari]

Okay, here's an article based on the concept of "Domesti-sizing the Internet," exploring the idea of a more localized and personalized online experience:

Domesti-sizing the Internet: Reclaiming Your Digital Neighborhood

For years, we've been told the internet is a global village, a vast and interconnected network that transcends borders and brings the world to our fingertips. While this holds true, a growing movement is pushing for a shift: domesti-sizing the internet. This isn't about disconnecting from the world entirely, but rather about consciously curating a more localized, personal, and manageable online experience. It's about reclaiming a sense of community and control in an increasingly overwhelming digital landscape.

The Rise of the Global Jumble:

The internet, in its current form, often feels like a chaotic marketplace. While offering an abundance of information and connection, it can also be overwhelming. We’re bombarded with algorithms that push us into filter bubbles, global news cycles that can feel distant and detached, and social media platforms designed to maximize engagement at the cost of genuine connection. We're often left feeling lost in a sea of information, struggling to find content that truly resonates with our lives and communities.

What Does Domesti-sizing Mean?

Domesti-sizing the internet is about a conscious shift towards:

• Local Engagement: Prioritizing content and conversations relevant to your immediate surroundings. This might involve participating in local forums, supporting local businesses online, and connecting with neighbors through neighborhood groups.
• Personalized Experiences: Tailoring your online spaces to your specific interests and needs, rather than passively accepting what algorithms serve up. This could mean using RSS feeds to curate content, opting for smaller, more specialized online communities, and actively managing your social media feeds.
• Mindful Consumption: Becoming more deliberate about how we spend our time online. This means being critical about the content we consume, seeking out resources that enrich us, and consciously disconnecting from the constant stream of updates.
• Relationship Building: Focusing on building genuine connections with known people online, rather than chasing after likes and followers from strangers. This might mean engaging in thoughtful conversations with friends, family, and colleagues.
• Community Building: Seeking out and creating online spaces that foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. This could be anything from online book clubs and support groups to forums centered around local interests.

Why is This Important?

The push for a more "domestic" internet stems from several concerns:

• Combating Overwhelm: The sheer volume of information online can be paralyzing. Domesti-sizing helps us to filter out the noise and focus on what truly matters.
• Reclaiming Community: In many ways, the internet has fragmented real-world communities. Focusing on local engagement online can help to rebuild those connections.
• Promoting Well-being: Constant exposure to global news and social media can contribute to anxiety and feelings of isolation. A more localized and personalized online experience can be more supportive of mental health.
• Empowering Individuals: Domesti-sizing allows individuals to regain control over their online lives, becoming active participants rather than passive consumers.

Practical Steps You Can Take:

• Seek out local forums and groups: Connect with your neighbors online.
• Follow local businesses and organizations: Support your community.
• Curate your social media feeds: Unfollow accounts that don't resonate with you.
• Use RSS feeds to subscribe to blogs and websites you enjoy.
• Engage in thoughtful conversations: Connect with people you know online.
• Be mindful of your time online: Set boundaries for yourself.
• Create or join smaller, more specialized online communities.

The Future of the Internet:

Domesti-sizing the internet is not about abandoning global connectivity; it's about striking a balance. It's about using the internet as a tool to enrich our lives and communities, rather than letting it consume us. By taking a more intentional and localized approach to our online experiences, we can create a digital landscape that feels more personal, manageable, and ultimately, more human. The internet doesn't have to be a cacophony; it can be a place where we feel connected, grounded, and empowered to build the kind of digital lives we truly want.

 

[Dhruv Bindhani]

Domesti-sizing the Internet​

By: Amit Bhushan Date: 23rd Feb. 2020

The political debates are mostly debates of convenience; convenience for the Netas in power, that is. The nationalism debates spurred by the CAA and anti-CAA protests are one such example. Each side has a small cross-section of supporters and with which a dramatic concoction is sought to be created, almost filling-in the entire newsmedia space day after days. It seems to have become almost immaterial that the larger public voted for their own self-interest to choose electoral candidates in the latest state electoral round. The issues that have dominated is ‘better administration’ of schools, health-centers etc. though a slew of freebies may also have done its trick, however this again was made possible by ‘improved administration and resulting savings’ in other governance areas. Basically, an attempt was made by national parties to ‘engage’ public on an ‘emotive’ nationality related question on the base of somewhat tricky ‘law-making’. While the winner too may not have been totally away from making their sides ‘known’ over the issue, however their plank for ‘engaging public’ was different for sure. What we see again is throw-back of emotive issues by the media however, with ‘engaging’ issues taking a back-seat. Clearly, it seems that neither the opposition or challengers elsewhere or the commercial news media has quickly lost interest in ‘engaging’ with public with the waning of the ‘political party’s interest’.

What we witness now is that ‘improving administration’ has taken a back seat in news media and the freebies offered along with Hanuman etc. are the talk of the day. Clearly, it reflects what is not desired as a discussion by the news media, parties and Netas of the day and shunning of responsibilities by those responsible with the news media in cahoots. Its behaviour not receiving public scrutiny is then publicized as ‘corruption’ not being an issue of any political dimension and this is likely to remain so even post the results of the Delhi polls. Then we have sundry Political Goonda elements with education and other interests being let off on bail in politically sensational ‘cases’, while the news media focussing non-political elements with equally or even more heineous track-records. While some elements in the news media did raise some noise around state of state-run educational institutions bereft of teachers, government recruitments and ‘ghotala’ thereunder, GST still not ‘freeing-up logistics’, illegal mining etc., however it is the news-carriers that have slipped downwards rather than the perpetrators with political backing. Clearly the balancing ‘political interests’ is much more of a priority rather than ‘bringing about a change’ as is often posed by the leadership of most of the parties with news-media often following suit.

Now asking for ‘political change’ is becoming a thing of fashion, especially amongst Netas with political backing (they may or may not have active/visible support of parties). Such Netas seek to achieve is not the replacement of Netas but want to direct public ire towards some engineered replacement of faces in governace, without any exposure of corrupt practices/systemic failures. What is perhaps not noted that though ruling party has failed to consolidate votes/power by leveraging non-issues, however even the principal opposition at the national has been return a duck with its concentration over non-issues. Only solate the principal opposition may have is about being able to coordinate and steer these parties, however a loss in some of the states rules by it, or failure of gambit in some of the smaller states would again prove to be the namesis of such a strategy, which the ruling party may already be aware off. For the government, it remains on the edge as string of losses in states under its rule may not be such a good omen or message to public although they may be under further scrutiny than just the state elections. It may better if states under respective fold are pushed to make progress on the development issues, on encouraging entrepreneurship and investments, improve public services like education, health-care, water resource management, sanitation, mineral resource management etc. It may help if the national parties remain focussed on states than on generic messaging, which in any case has lost meaning overtime.

Political change often begins with a big idea is forgotten. The idea should have power to mobilize support from large cross-section of people. Lately only one idea has shown this potential which is domesti-sizing the internet. A host of start ups have sprung up and have been successful in mobilizing people to create content in vernacular and have used this ‘power’ to engage with people who can only read/write in vernacular language. So far this has largely been without much incentive/support from the government either at center or at state level even though each of them have respective claims on promoting start ups and also leading in use of deploying technology to ameliorate situation of public. The governments including the one run by newbie party have spent crores on ‘communicating with public’, but have generated precious little ‘content’ to engage with ordinary public, a fact which will simply need to ‘change’ in this electoral round consider ‘which types’ are to be wooed by the parties/Netas and this has to happen very fast and in a much more sustained manner for this type of campaign to reach the target audience. However for now very few in politics seem to care even if the ‘smart phone’ seem to be showing an ever-rising penetration to increasing lower level of politico-economic strata. India thus has shown potential for not only ‘Bujhailo-ki Naahi’ but also ‘Hukkuna-mata’. Let the ‘Game’ evolve….