Charge of the young brigade

The youth of any society holds the power to change its face, for better or for worse. Youngsters contributing to global good hardly makes any news, however, here in India, the youth is far from realising their potential. We talk to some Tricity Turks on what stops them in their path and what kind of world they envision...

Quality missing 

Talking of Chandigarh, where I have lived all my life, I feel that though we have been able to provide education to almost all, we lack gravely in quality. The sad part is that there is hardly anyone to show direction. I studied biochemistry, but majority of my batch-mates took the course just because they got the seat! Post the graduation, only a few followed the stream; some chose MBA, others banking. If we decide early on where our future lies, it would be beneficial to both individuals and society. 

Secondly, as a North Indian I feel so deprived of our cultural moorings. To make the most of the energy and time on youngsters, some kind of cultural grooming is needed. I joined SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) and it has enriched in ways more than one.

 — Nalin  Taneja, pharmacovigilance scientist, volunteer SPIC MACAY

Avoid herd mentality

A lot of young people come up with innovative ideas,  but these are not fuelled enough by the authorities concerned. I believe true innovation, even for the society, will only happen when individuals can get freedom and the right support. Herd mentality should be avoided, and should be replaced with motivation, instincts and free will. I wish a lot of people will shine in various fields and not just acting or sports. 

 — Vanya Mishra, former Miss India, entrepreneur

Transform policies

Today’s youth is like nuclear power and it can work both ways – good or bad. If directed properly, they can help in growth and development of the country. If not, they can be more destructive than a nuclear bomb. I envision an India where skill-based education is imparted to one and all; employment-driven training; job placements and a brighter future. The government needs to transform its policies, so that every youngster gets equal opportunities for growth and development. And the young boys and girls need to watch out for very common malaise of modern life - mobile phone addiction. The youth and the authorities together can transform India’s future. 

—  Jyoti Alhawat, president, Panjab University Helping Hands

Make it better

Being an aware teen of India, I have faith in the efforts of my nation. Survival of the fittest is appropriate here; to compete and win is the total solution. For the same, I would love India to come up with plenty of resources. Make in India, right to education, national health mission, e-governance, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Incredible India – if sensibly executed would transform the fate of India from rural to urban. A better place to live is the motto of our government. Not in coming 20 or 30 years, but this Herculean task of transforming India would be a reality one day! Rome wasn’t built in a day. The need of the hour is to equally put our ‘sweat and toil’ along with law-makers for – clean-safe-healthy India. 

—  Mausam Babbar, student, bachelor of arts

Not a stray thought

India is a huge country and so are its challenges. But then in times like this, if the youth doesn’t take the reins in its hands then who will? Animal activism is one area that’s close to my heart. And, I am constantly at it. I feel that since elders are too rigid to be changed, start early with kids. I go to schools and work on sensitising kids about condition of stray dogs. Childhood is impressionable time. Even if 10 kids get the message out of a hundred that I address, I consider it a job well done. 

I believe in the power of that small step. If every youngster in the country has the conviction to follow their heart, wouldn’t the world be a better place to live in? 

—  Prapti Bajaj, dentist, animal activist

— Compiled by Mona