Celebrate Young India!

Great changes have taken place in India in the course of the last 62 years since its independence and democracy has become an article of faith for our country. Over the years we have steered our motherland to the frontline of nations making her a power to reckon with.

India, with its formidable young workforce trained in science and information technology, is ready to take on the world. Its progress in science and technology, in economic power and industrial infrastructure, and advanced atomic and space research is amazing. Besides, in all these years, India's core institutions from an independent judiciary and an indomitable and fearless press to a massive, nuclear but apolitical military have lived up to the values they stand for. In the past it was fashionable and a status symbol in India to look up to the West for everything, so much so that we had compromised a lot with regard to our culture, values, traditions and customs. But today on the other hand, the West is looking towards India for revival and inspiration. If the 19th century was the best time to be an Englishman and the 20th century to be an American, no doubt, the buzzword of the 21st century is "Indian".

However, India still has to face great challenges in the field of education, eradication of poverty, basic medical facilities, transport, self-sufficient energy, terrorism, etc. Nearly 50 per cent of India's population is under the age of 25, and teenagers among them constitute a large number that can either make or break the nation. The nation's prosperity and future depend on her youth power. It is an optimistic sign that young Indians are adapting a liberating, anything-is-possible attitude. So we can look forward with hope to a bright and prosperous India.

Along with power also comes greater responsibility. If we are to stand any chance of success in the years ahead and to take our nation to greater heights the youth of this country need to be better prepared for hard work and sacrifice, and thus channelize youth power constructively. The youth of our country have a big role to play in nation-building. Their parents and teachers can and should do a great deal in forming the youth for the same. Let everyone strive to be a true Indian. Celebrate Young India, celebrate 'Indianness'! Saare Jaham Se Aacha Hindustan Hamara! Jai Ho!