YOUTH AS ARCHITECTS OF NATION BUILDING
Nation building is a complex and challenging process that involves various measures to strengthen or create a sense of national identity and unity within a state. The crucial and critical role in this process of nation building remains that of the citizens who by participating in civic life and upholding the rule of law contribute to the common good. Although the three key elements of education, employment and empowerment of citizens determines the growth of nation, yet it is primarily the character of these citizens that remains a conclusive factor for its progress. As one sixth of the global population is youth, the credibility lies mostly with them. India, in particular, has a unique demographic advantage as every fourth person is a youth and an average age is 28 years as on 2021. This also places the country at the crossroads of having a maximum work force with less dependent population.
Being a home to almost fifth of the world’s youth, India’s young population is its most valuable asset. They have the creativity, the potential as well as the capacity to make changes happen not only for themselves but for the rest of the world as well. They bring new ideas, new energy and new vigour in the society and finally provide an atmosphere that helps in the development of nation. Not only are they important for the economic, political and social growth of country, but are also pivotal for keeping the younger generation motivated positively in a goal directed manner. They are actually the agents of change who are fearless, dynamic and have a desire to bring about a positive change in society, where everyone is to get equal opportunity to express themselves, equal opportunity to earn and equal opportunity to spend.
On the flip side the same youth poses a pressing challenge because of their potential to get misdirected and then misguide the younger generation by their mischievous acts. A recent example of misdirected youths who had the potential of misguiding the younger generation was showcased by the bestower of ‘Beer biceps’ and proprietor of ‘India got latent’- the live shows originally conceptualised by the west. The crude jokes in the guise of dark comedy, alluring remarks, abuses and offensive humour used on these live show encouraged the toxic masculinity rather than the cool and trendy stance. With a wider reach on social media and million plus followers and subscribers, these digital media personalities especially the influencers have a great impact on the mind-set of teenage population. By using such offensive language and providing a constant exposure to crass humour these influencers and podcasters can lead to desensitization of harmful language and the teenagers who idolise them and perceive them as heroes are likely to normalise such an inappropriate behaviour. This change in the mind-set of younger generations who start perceiving abnormal human behaviour as appropriate is not only going to ruin the present growth but also hamper the progress of nation in future too.
In the world of social media, where a single act, whether good or bad, spreads like a wildfire, it becomes all the more important for the youth to maintain a delicate balance between the freedom of speech and responsible content creation. The young minds need to be mindful of data privacy and personal information, avoid sharing of harmful or misleading content, engage in polite and respectful interactions and adhere to the specific guidelines and rules of each social media platform. They need to distance themselves from the negative influences and avoid getting lost under the influence o-f people in the world of glare.
As the traditional and cultural values are being influenced by the west, the competing ways of life that exist can be considered either as a choice or a cause of confusion for young people. To avoid the confusion the youth of India, who are the architects of its progress, need to be responsible in their approach, make right use of various platforms on social media and utilise them in a positive manner not only for their growth but also for the teenagers. This is possible only when the youth adheres to the basic Indian values that involves fostering a sense of duty, compassion, unity and harmony, guiding individuals to live in accordance with moral principles and social harmony. In short, the youth needs to encompass a rich tapestry of principles and practices deeply rooted in ancient wisdom and traditions of India rather than following the west and bring a positive change in society rather than being the negative influencers.
Dr. Pawan Suri
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