Apurv Shukla –
As India celebrates its 68th year of Independence, it is a moment of joy and pride for Indians across the globe.
The country has made tremendous progress in all spheres and is today regarded as a good example of a thriving democracy, and a steadfastly developing economy.
But India also faces challenges to bridge the prevalent gap between the rich and poor, and accentuate its standing as a major player on the world stage.
One of the biggest challenges facing Indian society and polity is corruption.
Determined start
Last year’s general elections saw the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) win on the strength of its campaign on good governance.
The one-year old government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a determined start to ensure their governance is transparent.
It was heartening to see the government adopting modern methods of reaching out to people including social media to keep the channels of communication open.
This is just a start as much more needs to be done to ensure that the government validates the massive mandate it received from voters last year.
Changing discourse
Another positive trend emerging out of Indian polity is the change in its political discourse.
India today is an aspirational society- and politicians have realised that.
Development is the underlying theme that parties talk to voters; a refreshing change from the methods of the past where religion and caste affiliations were used to divide people and garner votes.
The Indian economy is waiting for a second round of economic reforms to be introduced.
The opening up of the economy in 1992 was a catalyst that propelled India on the path to growth and progress.
Make India Campaign
Now is the time to devise and implement a new plan of action to further accelerate inclusive growth in an economic world regaining its confidence after being badly shaken by the Global Financial Crisis. The emphasis of the government on giving a major boost to the manufacturing sector by undertaking the ‘Make in India’ campaign will benefit the economy by generating jobs, leading to a more skilled workforce.
All great countries of the world have a culture of encouraging sports and sportspersons in their nations. Sports become a manifestation of national pride.
Sadly India lags behind in this aspect. Sports are viewed only as a recreational activity by most and frowned upon by many.
Woeful in sports
Education Institutes singularly emphasise on studies, neglecting the many benefits sports can accord its students.
Much more needs to be done to encourage children to take up sport seriously.
Better provision of infrastructure and equipment to play sport; will be a good start.
India is the world’s largest and most vibrant democracy.
It is a country of 1.2 billion people belonging to different religions and economic standings, co-existing peacefully.
It has seen wars, natural calamities and economic problems of vast magnitude, but has emerged only stronger.
The ‘Never say die sprit’ of the common Indian makes us confident that the issues affecting the further growth and progress of the country will be overcome, and India will steadfastly carry on its march to assume the mantle of a world leader.
