Politics, in the broadest sense, is concerned with how to set up and govern a system where people can coexist with a set of rules and regulations. In a democratic country like India, the public decides the rules of the game. This is achieved through a process of electing politicians who represent the needs of the public and can determine how best to meet those needs.
Thus, politics plays a vital role in the development of a country’s democracy by making the people the de facto powers. It is at the heart of systematic development dialogue – where it belongs! It offers constructive ideas for harnessing the power of transparency and public participation in ways.
Unfortunately, however, we have experienced nothing but disappointments over the years. Politicians have succeeded in changing the image of democracy that freedom fighters imagine while giving their lives for the freedom struggle. The use of money, polarization tactics, and vote banking mean taking elected office by dividing voters and using elected office to their advantage. Finding all means to regain power in elections.
Politics is not evil, but it is presented as one so that it can forever remain in the hands of a few people and families. It is an integral and important part of the democratic process in India. A good economy and inclusive development are part of the politics that the Indian system needs!
One of the great strengths India possesses is the power of demographic dividends. The power and potential of one million young people are a necessity for the growth of the country. India is one of the youngest countries in the world, with an average age of 28. Ironically, however, the average age of politicians rises with each successive term.
Today’s youth are full of creativity, enthusiasm, hope and intelligence. Young people have great potential to make a difference and lead the world to a safe and sustainable future. But their potential is untapped in the country’s parliamentary affairs. The ambition of young India has the potential to lead to the nation’s fruitful development. Seeing examples like Jabna Chauhan from Tajung, Himachal Pradesh, who in 2016, at the age of 22, was elected India’s youngest party leader. She made a huge difference in her village. Rehabilitation of infrastructure and other measures, from liquor and tobacco bans to establishing effective waste management systems, made her the “Best Sarpanch” and was commended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Like Japan, the country’s youth have the zeal and determination to make a difference. But in India’s parliament, such a spirit is undervalued and not pushing young people.
I truly believe that there are other ways of creating change for the good in society, but if we want to dent the social and economic issues in India, we have to hit it hard, and for that, politics is the only way. Last year in 2021, I read the book Dreamers by Snigdha Poonam, which gave me a question? Despite the energy and passion, what is it that the young generation lacks? This question helped me build a new program for my last organisation, which somewhat answered this question. I found 55 unsung youth leaders from all over the country working silently for the communities. During this phase, I realised that we usually talk about change but never mention the power, the larger force which will make it happen. Now, I am working separately on a program, ‘Youth Defining India‘, which thrives on bringing equal representation for young people at all levels. If you want to join the movement, you can drop a mail at mail2utkrsh@gmail.com.
Young people in this country need a platform that helps them raise their voices and political awareness. A system that could support more and more young leaders is what India and the current system need right away! And that is what I am trying to create through Youth Defining India. Let us join together and make this movement count 🙂
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