About Me

In this corner of my virtual world, I invite you to come – as guests who seek meaningful interaction, as friends who wish to stay and enrich my world view, and as mentors who can guide me through my journey.

In my creative pursuits, I use a range of mediums to express myself. From a brush that happily dives into paint to do my bidding, to words that dance to my tunes, my bursts of creativity come to me frequently and forcefully.

Academically, I harbor a scientific temperament and have found myself drawn to the mystic realm of programming, prompting me to aspire to a life as a coder. A few interesting excursions and opportunities to work with eminent institutions like the Revenue Department of the Government of Gujarat have further opened my eyes to its impact and importance, solidifying my resolve to pursue a career in the field.

Beyond my books and brushes, codes and pens, I am driven by an inherent desire to create a lasting social impact. Aware of the privilege I come from, I have always felt it my human duty to work for the betterment of those who are less fortunate. Having volunteered my time to a few projects that aimed to improve the lives of street children and people abandoned by their loved ones in the twilight years, I have experienced immense satisfaction bringing joy and empowerment to others.

In this corner of the virtual world, I invite you to join me in my journey, as I balance various facets of my life and my personality, celebrating creativity, imagination, and above all, empathy.

Projects

Unlocking the Cosmos with Free Space Optical Communication

During my internship at ISRO’s Space Application Center, I explored into the fascinating world of “Free Space Optical Communication” (FSOC). This cutting-edge technology, capable of transmitting data at lightning speeds without physical infrastructure, felt like science fiction brought to life. My report explored FSOC’s game-changing potential across various domains—from enhancing military and urban networks to pushing the boundaries of space communication. Tackling challenges like atmospheric turbulence and alignment issues, I uncovered the immense possibilities FSOC holds for revolutionizing global connectivity. This experience not only fueled my passion for innovative technology but also reaffirmed my belief that computer science is the key to unlocking the mysteries of the universe.

Viridis Terra

Welcome to the future of waste management:
“Viridis Terra” is a research project from my association with ‘The Junior Academy’ of the New York Academy of Sciences. Here, I collaborated with international peers to design and develop an innovative AI-powered recycling system capable of intelligently sorting wet and dry waste. Imagine a bin that knows the difference between a soggy napkin and an aluminum can and sort them out before they even touch! We incorporated dampness and ultrasound sensors for effectiveness. Researching existing systems like Bin-E guided our approach. Developing basic coding for moisture sensing and watching it sort waste with accuracy was like magic. We gained valuable insights from Mr. Rajiv Santhanam, a mechanical engineer, refining our project through feedback and iterative revision.

Civic Unplugged Solvathon Challenge

Through my involvement with Civics Unplugged, I had the opportunity to engage with students worldwide, gaining exposure to diverse perspectives on critical issues such as housing, justice, environment, climate change, and food security. This not only broadened my understanding of the unique challenges different communities face but also deepened my passion for creating a more equitable world.
In the ‘Solvathon Challenge,’ our team, which included members from Kenya and Australia, increased youth voter turnout in Pennsylvania by 3-5%. We developed a comprehensive plan that identified key civic concerns for young people, outlined strategies to enhance their electoral participation, and defined actionable steps and deliverables.
Upon completing the program, I received ‘Certificate of Completion’ for the 2024 Spring Civic Innovators Fellowship

The Junior Academy – New York Academy of Sciences

I was honored to be selected as a member of The Junior Academy, a prestigious program under the New York Academy of Sciences. This platform empowers students to tackle real-world challenges in the STEM field. As part of my involvement, I participated in the 1000 Girls, 1000 Futures program, which connects STEM-focused high school girls with female mentors. Additionally, I served as a group leader in a year-long virtual science education initiative, dedicated to developing skills and building strong connections with female leaders in STEM.

Housing – a Human Right, a Report

Housing is a fundamental human right essential for dignity, health, and well-being. Despite being enshrined in international law, this right remains inaccessible for millions due to unaffordability, insecurity, and poor living conditions. While exploring the financialization of housing, I discovered that corporate giants contribute to the global crisis by inflating rents and decreasing affordability. I also examined regulatory measures and recognized that systemic changes are crucial for realizing the universal right to adequate housing. Additionally, I encountered the challenges governments face in balancing housing supply with demand amid powerful stakeholders. Effective solutions require a nuanced approach, blending legislative action, financial resources, and strong regulation.

Study on Remote Sensing Applications and Role of Geoportals

India’s Earth Observation (EO) capabilities have advanced significantly through the integration of remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and geoportals like Bhuvan and VEDAS. These technologies collectively enable comprehensive monitoring and management of the country’s diverse natural resources, supporting sustainable development. By offering real-time data on areas such as climate, agriculture, and infrastructure, EO facilitates informed decision-making across various sectors. Additionally, innovations in AI and machine learning, combined with geoportals, enhance data processing and analysis, driving collaboration and promoting economic growth through optimized resource management.

Leadership Pursuits

Harvard Model United Nations Delegate

Attending Harvard Model United Nations India 2023 was eye-opening experience. I explored into understanding Nicaragua’s educational challenges, shaped by its turbulent past from the Sandinista era to post-conflict recovery and felt a profound connection to the cause. Co-authoring “Another Brick in the Wall” was not just a diplomatic task—it was a passionate effort to harness the power of empathetic collaboration. I wasn’t just drafting policy; I was envisioning a world where every child, regardless of background, has the chance to learn and thrive. The paper, embraced by numerous member countries, provided actionable solutions to global educational disparities, reinforcing my belief in diplomacy and international cooperation as vital tools for advancing universal education. Receiving a Certificate of Recognition for my contributions further validated my commitment to making a meaningful difference on the global stage.

Menstrual Awareness Drive

Facilitated specialized educational sessions for 8th and 9th-grade girls of my school on menstruation, collaborating with school authorities to provide scientifically accurate information through videos and interactive discussions.

Ensured comprehensive understanding of menstrual health, benefiting both girls and boys in their developmental understanding.

Mental Health Awareness Drive

Mental health issues extend far beyond the elderly or impoverished; even those with abundant resources can quietly battle anxiety and depression. The relentless pressure to excel affects not only professionals but also college students and, alarmingly, young children, who often face anxiety from bullying, body image concerns, and the fear of speaking up in class.

Recognizing these widespread struggles, I volunteered to address this critical issue. As part of a school committee focused on mental health, I initiated peer support groups and mindfulness sessions, creating safe spaces for students to share their struggles. This experience deepened my commitment to fostering environments where mental well-being and academic success go hand in hand.

Internships

SWM Dissertation

During my internship with the Solid Waste Management Department of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), I actively researched and analyzed waste management processes. I visited waste disposal sites, interacted with rag-pickers and waste collectors to grasp the complexities of waste collection, gathered comprehensive data, which culminated in a published report titled “Solid Waste and E-Waste Management.” The report stressed the importance of efficient waste management and highlighted the harm caused by recycling bin contamination. My efforts were recognized with a letter of appreciation from the Director of Solid Waste Management & Nodal Officer (SBM) at AMC. Building on this work, I later published a book based on my research, titled “Solid Waste and E-Waste Management,” which is now available on Amazon and Flipkart which was a defining moment for me.

Garvi Project

During my internship with the Gujarat Government Revenue Department, specifically with the Inspector General of Registration and Stamps, I delved into the intricacies of computerizing land records as part of the GARVI Project. This involved understanding the automation of administration, registration, valuation, and indexing processes. I gained hands-on experience in comprehending the workflow, amendments, transfers, and benefits of digitalization within the state. Interacting with Sub Registrars provided invaluable insights into the online facilities available. Through this practical exposure, I realized the pivotal role of digitalization in enhancing the delivery of public services. My aim was to raise awareness among citizens about the significance of embracing digital solutions for administrative processes. Additionally, I compiled a detailed report documenting the entire automation process, which is now accessible on the Revenue Department’s website. This endeavor earned me a letter of appreciation from the Deputy IGR, acknowledging my extensive research and efforts in creating awareness about digitization initiatives in Gujarat.

Community Service Endeavors

Jeevan Sandhya Charitable Trust & Visamo Foundation

Volunteering at “Jeevan Sandhya” was a deeply enriching experience that allowed me to form meaningful connections with senior citizens and gain insight into the unique challenges they encountered during their later years. At “Jeevan Sandhya,” I actively participated in a range of activities designed to promote physical and emotional well-being among the residents. Whether it was engaging in rejuvenating yoga sessions, uplifting bhajan singing, or expressing creativity through craft activities, each interaction provided valuable life lessons. Raising funds to provide essential supplies like food, medicine, and bedding further reinforced my commitment to making a difference in their lives. Interacting with these individuals, listening to their stories, and witnessing their resilience instilled in me a deep sense of compassion and respect for the elderly and reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of kindness and empathy.

Volunteering at Signal School

I volunteered for the Signal School Project after witnessing the plight of underprivileged children begging at traffic signals. Collaborating with the Gujarat State Legal Services Authority and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), we provided education to these children, converting ten buses into classrooms equipped with essential facilities under the motto of “Bhiksha Nahi Shiksha.” The buses were transformed into mobile schools, stationed strategically near signals, offering free education, mid-day meals, and health check-ups. With educational activities, cultural events, sports competitions, and skill development activities, we prepared children for mainstream education. My work was recognized with a letter of appreciation from the Gujarat Education Minister and awarded by the Government of India for the successful administration of Signal School. Today, with 12 buses serving 151 children, the Signal School Project continues to thrive.

Blood Donation Camp at Being Woman Foundation

Participating as a volunteer for the blood donation camp organized by “Being Woman Charitable Trust” alongside Prathama Blood Center was a memorable experience. Despite encountering challenges in convincing potential donors, I successfully registered donors for the event. This attempt provided me with invaluable practical knowledge about the significance of raising awareness about blood donation. I learned the importance of dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding blood donation through scientific education and community engagement. Utilizing various platforms such as posters, WhatsApp groups, and social media like Facebook, we effectively spread awareness about the critical need for blood donation. This experience not only highlighted the lifesaving impact of blood donation but also reinforced the importance of proactive community involvement in addressing healthcare challenges.