The irrepressible energy

Mona

A brave, frank, clean- hearted, courageous and aspiring youth is the only foundation on which the future nation can be built, said Swami Vivekananda. More than 100 years on, as the birth anniversary of the man, who is credited for bringing the concept of nationalism in the colonial India, is celebrated as National Youth Day, we ask young leaders how they can help build the nation, which is the theme for 2020.

Our voice matters

Youth of our country is able and willing to take the country towards the glory it deserves. Citing the mechanics that played at JNU recently, it demands a reverse direction. Rather than political parties directing the young brigade to their own advantage, I am all for students chart their aims and objectives and political parties supporting them in their vision for India. More young ministers being part of the government will see that vision put to practice. —Chhavi, President, Student Council, MCM -36

Education is the way forward

Youth’s participation in every walk of life is significant to build a nation. But before the youth can play its role in nation building, the system and society have to invest in their education, critical thinking so that they can lead the country best suited to the times. —Tegbir Singh, general secretary, Student Council, Panjab University

Count us in

It is the youth that drives any country. In ours, I admit a significant chunk is more engrossed in personal gain than the nation’s, but then there are those who want to play their part in taking India ahead. Also, that opportunities for the youth to meaningfully engage in writing the nation’s narrative are limited. That must be dealt with. Sadly what transpired at JNU points out at warning signs. Many of my seniors, who are in JNU, and many here are concerned about the nation and we look forward to make our gainful contribution to our motherland. —Lakshit, president, Student Council, DAV-10

Stop brain drain

It’s the youth that can realise Swami Vivekananda’s dream of establishing India as a world power. Unfortunately, the young talent of Punjab is rushing to foreign shores. Our education system needs a complete re-haul to enable the young to realise their true potential. Getting in touch with roots, morals and values would lead to a young brigade that can successfully charter a fresh, strong beginning for our country. —Ashutosh Tiwari, District president, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha

A place in policy making

The youth has played a vital role in first freeing, and now running the country. Bhagat Singh, Chandra Shekhar Azad died young to make a free India possible. India with a considerable young population, I hope young activists get the guaranteed seats in the government so that they become an imperative force in writing the nation’s glorious future. —Vicky Middukhera, senior leader, Student Organisation of India

Invest in education

Youth channelized in the right direction can take the country to soaring heights, it’s time to invest in their education, employment so that they have a say in ensuring that the nation’s system is strong and thriving. —Daler Singh, Ex vice-president, Student Council, Panjab University

Listen to us

Forget being a stakeholder in writing the vision for the country, even our problems aren’t being heard. That’s the sad state of politics that largely runs the country. I am of firm belief that politicians should have a qualifying test. That could be one window how youth can be a part of the governing process and put their vision for the nation into practice. —Tashi Raftan, President, Ladakh Students’ Association Chandigarh

Fight for the rights

Youth is the edifice on which any nation erects a strong foundation. It is sad to see the present oppressive regime unleashing their might against students demanding their rights. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our youngsters. —Akshay Sharma, president, NSUI, Punjab

Eco warriors

The youth must show the path for the nation. Being someone who holds environmental concerns close to heart, Infieon Supermileage, the student team from SRM Institute of Science and Technology is set to make energy efficient vehicles and is focused on reducing consumption of fossil fuels. Gareema Waraich, member, team Infieon Supermileage, SRM Institute of Science & Technology