Abdul Quddir Kundria
As we step into a new year, let us come together with a shared vision of unity, progress, and compassion for all, across every corner of our beloved India, including Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. This year, and the years that follow, should serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and peace that bind us together.
The foundation of any harmonious society is laid within the home. If there are misunderstandings or grievances within our families, it is crucial that we address them with patience, dialogue, and love. The ability to resolve conflicts within the family unit prevents them from growing into larger issues that might affect the larger society. A home built on love, mutual respect, and understanding sets a positive example, reducing the need for legal interventions and fostering an atmosphere of trust. It is within these walls that we first learn the values that will define our society-compassion, respect, and harmony. Let us all strive to make our homes havens of peace and understanding, because from there, the spirit of unity will spread to the wider community.
As we reflect on the challenges and aspirations of this new year, one of the most pressing matters that need our immediate attention is the role of youth in society. Our young generation holds the promise of a bright future, and it is our duty to nurture them. They have the potential to drive positive change, but they need the right guidance, resources, and opportunities to channel their energy and skills effectively.
Unfortunately, the specter of drug abuse and addiction has increasingly cast a shadow over the lives of many young people. The widespread use of substances such as drugs, alcohol, and even cigarettes not only harms the individual but also wreaks havoc on families and communities. The lure of these substances may appear appealing to some, but they ultimately lead to despair, broken relationships, and a generation lost to addiction. Drugs and their associated crimes corrode the fabric of society, creating an environment where hopelessness flourishes.
To combat this, we must take decisive steps to address the root causes. Education plays a critical role in prevention. Schools and community centers should serve as places of awareness and support, helping young people understand the dangers of drug abuse. But beyond simply raising awareness, it is essential to provide opportunities for young people to thrive. Our youth must be able to envision a future where they can succeed, contribute, and lead a life of dignity.
Additionally, those who have already succumbed to addiction need support and care. Rehabilitation centers, counseling services, and strong community networks are essential for helping individuals reclaim their lives and reintegrate into society. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no young person feels alone in their struggles, and to provide them with the tools to overcome these challenges and rebuild their futures.
It is also essential to address the issue of unemployment, especially among educated youth. Many young people, having invested their time and energy in education, find themselves struggling to secure meaningful employment. Whether they are recent graduates, diploma holders, or skilled professionals, it is disheartening to see so much talent going to waste due to a lack of opportunities.
It is incumbent upon us-government bodies, the private sector, and society at large-to create avenues for meaningful work. By fostering entrepreneurship, supporting small businesses, and offering targeted skills development programs, we can help young people find work that is aligned with their education and aspirations. In doing so, we will not only alleviate unemployment but also contribute to the nation’s growth by tapping into the vast potential of its educated youth.
In parallel, we must focus on the welfare of marginalized groups such as laborers, domestic workers, and the underprivileged. These communities often work tirelessly, yet they remain trapped in cycles of poverty. It is our moral duty to ensure that they receive fair wages, equal opportunities, and the dignity they deserve. As we enter the new year, let us resolve to take concrete steps toward alleviating hunger and poverty and ensuring that no one is left behind in our pursuit of progress.
Another critical area that demands our attention is the development of education and infrastructure in rural areas. In many parts of India, especially in remote villages, children are deprived of access to quality education due to a lack of schools or colleges nearby. We must advocate for the expansion of educational opportunities in rural areas by upgrading primary and middle schools to higher secondary levels, and establishing colleges in these remote regions. Only then will the children from these areas be empowered to build a brighter future and contribute to the nation’s progress.
Education, however, cannot stand alone without proper infrastructure to support it. Rural communities often lack the necessary facilities to ensure that their children can study, grow, and thrive. The construction of better roads, reliable drainage systems, and bridges should be prioritized, as these essential amenities will significantly improve the quality of life for residents and enable access to educational institutions and healthcare services. By working together with local governments, district administrations, and law enforcement agencies, we can implement effective programs aimed at both development and job creation in these regions.
Furthermore, it is imperative that we never lose sight of the plight of the most vulnerable members of our society-widows, orphans, and the impoverished. These individuals face daily challenges that we often overlook in our busy lives. We must take it upon ourselves to extend a helping hand, whether through organizing community initiatives, providing financial aid, or offering emotional support. By uplifting the most marginalized, we show the true spirit of humanity and compassion, and we create a society where everyone can live with dignity and respect.
In the midst of all this, we must guard against misinformation and rumors that have the power to divide and destroy the harmony we so desperately need. False rumors can cause unnecessary conflicts and deepen existing rifts in communities. Let us instead focus on activities that promote peace, mutual understanding, and respect. Participating in cultural and artistic events, sharing stories, and engaging in dialogue are powerful ways to foster communal harmony and keep the flame of unity burning bright.
As we celebrate the arrival of the new year, we must also teach our children the values that will help create a better world. Respect for elders, kindness to others, and a commitment to humanity should be instilled in the younger generation from an early age. By nurturing these qualities, we are laying the foundation for a society that values dignity and empathy. Our actions today will shape the leaders of tomorrow, and it is crucial that we set the right example.
Finally, let us not forget that the youth are the torchbearers of progress. They are the innovators, the creators, and the leaders who will guide our country to a prosperous future. Let this new year inspire them to tackle the issues that plague our society-from drug addiction and unemployment to education and infrastructure and take bold steps toward a better tomorrow. We must encourage them to dream big, work hard, and stay focused on the greater good of the nation.
When our nation prospers, we all prosper. This New Year, let us renew our commitment to working together for the welfare of our country. By doing so, we can ensure that India remains a beacon of happiness, peace, and prosperity for future generations. Let us build a future where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, and where unity, progress, and humanity are the guiding principles that shape our path forward.
(The writer is an eminent Dogri Poet/Writer of Jammu and Kashmir)