Subhash Chandra Bose is not just a name; it is an emotion for millions of people. An enigma that still attracts interests. What is the legacy of Bose? Every political party today claiming to be the inheritor of his legacy. The statue of Netaji is installed in the Indian Gate and shows a mark of political willingness to accommodate the legend.
Today, as I am writing, is the birth anniversary of Netaji. In Bengal it is a public holiday. Is Bose's birthday being reduced to just another holiday? A culture is being created to sing patriotic songs in the morning that ends up with liquor and a sumptuous dinner at night.
It is a day to stop for a moment, to take a look back to access our past and progress so far. It is a day to take a pledge to do better in whatever we are doing. A nation is all about its people. As a nation, how close and far we are from Bose's dream?
There are remarkable achievements we have made as a nation in socio-cultural and economic terms. The restoration of Ram Janmobhumi Temple and the ongoing Mahakumbh is proof that although our hair has touched the mars, our roots are still in the ground.
There is no denying that we as a nation have to walk a long way to realise Netaji's dream. There are a few broad parameters to work on.
1. Opportunity of quality education and skill development: India’s strength is its demography. We are a young nation. Around 65% of our population is of working age. To reap the benefit, we must work on investing in education and skill development.
2. Social Integration: Caste is a prevalent factor in India. The caste system creates social discrimination. In a digital age, merit shall be the marker of one's credibility instead of caste. A relentless effort from all the stakeholders is required for social accommodation.
3. Nutrition and Health: Health and nutrition are the key areas where India needs huge investments. A healthy and nourished body can only harbour the thought of prosperity and progress.
4. Unleashing the entrepreneurial ecosystem: If we read the history of developed nations, we will realise that those nations grew on hard work and entrepreneurial spirit.
The present geopolitical situations created an opportunity for India to grow at a first rate and uplift the larger section of its population.
Subhas Chandra Bose's birthday is a perfect occasion to take a vow to do our bit for fulfilling the dream of the legendary man.
