This year’s Independence Day is a good time to reflect on the distance we have come as a nation and the destination ahead. The India we want for ourselves and our next generation. There is a lot of talk about the rights of citizens. Until a few decades ago life moved at a far slower pace. Things changed over the course of years. The world we are in today is too complex and dynamic. This is not a world where governments or civic bodies alone can deliver a New India. India cannot be its highest self without our active participation.
Participation in nation-building does not require us to take a sabbatical from our work or make enormous monetary donations or join politics. In fact, it can be easily integrated into our daily life. In reality, all we need is ourselves and the intention to be of service. Most people can give either time or money or physical objects or efforts. From a child of 10 years to super senior citizens everyone can make a joyous difference. It would be pleasantly surprising to know the many ways in which every demographic can make a positive contribution.
While our family nurtured us, we are equally nurtured by and indebted to millions of Indians who helped to build our culture and country. To every person who planted a tree, every teacher who instilled positive values, to every craftsman and writer whose work transcends time and space to inspire us today. We are indebted to the unsung freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives so that we may be a free nation, and to the brave men and women of our armed forces who protect the nation 24/7.
On this Independence Day let us equally put the spotlight on the responsibilities of citizens. Our country cannot change without the active and ongoing participation of citizens. There are paradigms around giving and doing. There are people who feel that to be of service they need to be part of some organisation. Or they have a benchmark of some amount (which varies from person to person) to give. Some feel that they will do social work when they turn 60. That is not enough.
Contributing to the nation is not anymore merely a nice thing to do. It is the need of the hour and also our responsibility. The outcome of citizens doing at least one positive action a week will be a kinder, happier and more equitable and sustainable India. This has become all the more crucial in today’s volatile global landscape. As the world grapples with the fallout of a devastating pandemic, the ripple effects of geopolitical conflicts, and the existential threat of climate change, the role of engaged, empowered citizens has never been more vital.
