India, a country that once relied heavily on the World Bank and global powers for aid during times of crisis, has transformed remarkably over the past few decades. Gone are the days when the nation looked outward in desperation after natural disasters or economic shocks, waiting for support and financial assistance. From being a recipient of aid to now being a provider of global relief, India’s journey from dependency to self-reliance has been commendable.
During earlier years, particularly under Congress rule, India struggled with financial constraints, often functioning like a dependent state. For instance, after the devastating tsunami in Gujarat, the country relied on international assistance to rebuild affected areas. However, the face of India has changed significantly. Today’s India stands tall on the global stage — ready to offer help wherever it is needed. Whether it’s an international humanitarian crisis or a call for assistance, India is often one of the first nations to respond.
This change hasn’t occurred overnight. It is the result of the collective efforts of millions of Indians who chose to contribute toward nation-building. Citizens gave up certain subsidies, complied more with tax norms, and fostered a culture of transparency, allowing the government to allocate more resources toward development and international aid.
However, a growing challenge threatens to derail this progress — the rising culture of “muftkhori,” or dependence on free government handouts. As state elections approach in various regions, political parties across the spectrum have turned to populist strategies, offering freebies like free rations, laptops, mobile phones, and cash incentives to secure votes.
A notable example is Jharkhand, where Hemant Soren’s government introduced the “Maiya Samman Yojana,” promising Rs. 1,000 monthly to women. When the BJP countered with a Rs. 100 monthly offer, Soren swiftly raised his to Rs. 2,500, which reportedly played a decisive role in swaying female voters.
The BJP, traditionally opposed to such populist measures, has also followed suit. In states like Maharashtra and Delhi, the party announced various free schemes, including a Rs. 2,500 monthly benefit for women and increased pension schemes — a stark contrast to its earlier stance against “revadi culture” (freebie culture).
The spread of this practice is not limited to one party or state. In Punjab, the Aam Aadmi Party gained significant ground due to its promises of free electricity and other handouts. Slowly, this culture is becoming a political norm, where elections are being won not on the basis of development or policy but based on who offers more for free.
This widespread acceptance of freebies, while politically expedient, is a dangerous trend. It reflects a deeper societal shift — one that forgets our cultural heritage rooted in contribution, sacrifice, and self-reliance. India has historically valued the spirit of giving, as taught by stalwarts like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Swami Vivekananda. These icons envisioned a nation where citizens gave more than they took, where selfless service defined patriotism.
Today, however, that philosophy is at risk. In chasing short-term electoral wins, we may be compromising the long-term health of our democracy and economy. The freebie culture, if left unchecked, could become a chronic disease, weakening the very foundation built by the sacrifices of our ancestors.
It is time for deep reflection. If we do not act now, the future of our nation — and the generations to come — may face consequences too dire to imagine. India must remember where it came from, recognize the values that shaped its rise, and move beyond the politics of freebies to ensure sustainable growth and national integrity.
To truly honor the legacy of our forefathers and ensure the progress of future generations, we must return to the values that once drove the nation forward — values of self-reliance, sacrifice, and integrity. The practice of relying on free schemes undermines the principle of hard work and self-sufficiency that once empowered individuals and communities to thrive.
A country that consistently offers handouts risks fostering a dependency culture, which discourages productivity and innovation. While it may appear that these schemes offer immediate relief to the masses, they ultimately lead to stagnation, disempowerment, and an unhealthy reliance on the state. This becomes particularly evident when political leaders prioritize short-term popularity over long-term welfare and sustainable development.
The focus should be on policies that promote entrepreneurship, skill development, and education. These initiatives will not only empower individuals but will also build a resilient economy. It is essential that we invest in creating an environment where citizens can thrive independently — where they are not waiting for government aid but are equipped to achieve their aspirations on their own.
Furthermore, we must emphasize the importance of responsible governance. Leaders should refrain from offering populist promises and instead focus on crafting policies that prioritize infrastructure development, technological advancement, and job creation. It is these efforts that will truly uplift the nation and make it self-sufficient in the global arena.
India’s transformation from a nation dependent on foreign aid to a global powerhouse is a story of resilience, but it is also a story that can be undone if we fall into the trap of political opportunism and short-sightedness. If we continue to cater to the allure of freebies, we risk jeopardizing the hard-earned stability and growth that India has achieved.
The road ahead requires more than just economic progress. It requires a cultural shift back to the principles that built the nation — principles of sacrifice, self-discipline, and contribution. As a society, we need to embrace these values, not just as a historical lesson, but as a way of life that will ensure India’s continued success and global leadership.
To safeguard the future of our country, we must reject the allure of free handouts and instead focus on policies that nurture innovation, education, and personal responsibility. Only then can we build an India that is not just economically prosperous, but also morally strong, self-reliant, and ready to take on the challenges of the future with confidence. The vision of our nation’s founders was one of a proud, self-sustaining India, and it is this vision that must continue to guide us in the years to come.
Reviewed by PSA Live News
on
5:47:00 pm
Rating:
कोई टिप्पणी नहीं: