Bratati Baral, OP
India is a country where youth form more than 50 per cent of the population. However, most of today’s politicians are more than forty years of age. Are we really satisfied with the way our country is being governed? Orissa POST asked a few young people whether there is a need for more young political leaders to bring a positive change in present day politics.
Md. Imran Ali, social activist
The country desperately needs some young leaders who are morally sound, energetic and diligent. Progress will be faster if we have some young torchbearers to light the way. During the freedom struggle, Mahatma Gandhi used to encourage young people to take
active part in politics. But the case has totally changed now. The few young politicians mostly belong to political families. They are in the first line of politics because they belong to influential political backgrounds. College elections these days are also not democratic. Many active students are not getting a chance as they are not taking the help of any political party. Youth should get a chance to bring about a change in society.
Abinash Thakur, district president, BCJD, Kalahandi
Our politics needs strong, intelligent and educated youth who are knowledgeable about legislature, administration and law. By youngsters I don’t mean 20 year olds with no experience at all, but people who are in their 30s or early 40s with the right mix of experience and energy. It also does not mean that older people should leave politics. They can play a guiding role because they have a wealth of experience. If youth are active in politics, they can bring change because they are aware of the problems in the country. If I get a chance to work for the state, I will definitely work hard for the poor, downtrodden, and marginalised people.
Chinmaya Ku Sahoo, State Advisor, BCJD
Young people who are energetic, pragmatic, and smart should come into politics.They will be successful because they will not be after money but will look to do something for the betterment of society. Older leaders should share their experiences with the youth. The experience of the old leaders and the energy of the young will definitely help to bring change in society. As a youth leader, I also want to work for my state. There are many developmental schemes in the state that people are unaware about. With the involvement of young and smart people, we can get these schemes implemented effectively. As a youth leader, I will give importance to youth employment, particularly self-employment so that they can be independent. There is no doubt that youth can contribute to society in many ways.
Soubhagya Soumyashree Samal, President, Rama Devi Women’s University
Definitely, the political system needs youth participation.Young people are smart with modern technology and they really want to work for the development of society in a positive way. The political system also needs to change which will be possible only if young
people get involved. That does not mean the old political leaders should sit at home, their experience is also much needed. The youth can also help to carry forward the various development schemes initiated by the government.
