Responsibility of Indian Society in Times of Global Crisis

A.K. Srivastava

Today, the entire world is struggling with serious challenges such as economic instability, climate change, pollution, and war. The impact of international conflicts and global economic competition is not limited to the countries directly involved; rather, it affects the economy of the entire world. Although India is not directly involved in global wars, their impact can clearly be seen on petroleum, gas, imports-exports, and the prices of essential commodities.

In such circumstances, the Government of India has so far demonstrated balanced management, while the people of India have also maintained patience and restraint. The tradition of savings, simplicity, and sacrifice has always been an integral part of Indian culture. Whenever the nation faced difficulties, the people stood united in the interest of the country. The donation of gold by women during the 1962 China war and the acceptance of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s appeal for fasting during the 1965 food crisis are strong examples of this national spirit.

Once again, the need of the hour is to move seriously towards energy conservation and self-reliance. The Prime Minister’s appeal for the use of electric vehicles, solar energy, public transport, and reduction of unnecessary expenditure is important not only from an economic perspective but also for environmental protection.

Alternative energy sources can be promoted in rural India. The use of gas emitted from coal mines, promotion of smokeless stoves, and large-scale tree plantation campaigns can help reduce the energy crisis. The idea of “Plant five trees for every tree cut” should be transformed into a public movement.

India is primarily an agricultural country; therefore, promoting coarse grains such as millet, sorghum, and ragi has become a necessity. This will not only improve public health but also help conserve water and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. Encouraging compost production from domestic organic waste can also solve the growing problem of waste management.

In cities like Pune, Ahmedabad, and Delhi, several reputed companies are providing machines that can convert household food and organic waste into compost at the domestic level itself. The use of such systems will promote organic farming and reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers. In this effort, municipalities, municipal corporations, and village panchayats will have a very important role. If the government provides subsidies for compost-making machines, it will greatly benefit both cleanliness and agriculture.

The growing extravagance in marriages and social functions is also a matter of concern. The competition of showmanship has increased social pressure on families. There is a need to make marriage ceremonies simpler and more modest. Organizing weddings during the daytime and controlling unnecessary expenditure can send a positive social message.

In Indian tradition, gold is considered a symbol of savings and security. However, excessive dependence on imported gold puts pressure on the country’s economy. Therefore, it is necessary to promote “Made in India” products and give priority to indigenous goods as gifts and for regular use.

Today’s youth must move away from consumerism and adopt the values of savings, environmental protection, water conservation, and self-reliance. Awareness campaigns on these subjects should be promoted in schools and colleges.

India has always overcome difficult situations through collective strength and discipline. If the government and the people together adopt energy conservation, self-reliance, environmental protection, and social simplicity as part of daily life, India will emerge stronger from every crisis and set an example before the world.

(Author is President, Jamshedpur Citizens Forum. Views are personal.)