The demographic dividend to be truly a reservoir of human
energy has to be engaged in citizen responsibility beyond casting a 'trust'
vote once in five years. ( which many still do not go out to vote).
The lead must be given by leadership at key levels to ensure
people willingness to participate and contribute.
The key levels are
--Elected representatives.
And the Appointed Public officials.
First the elected representatives. ( all levels).
They can be the real social reformers. After winning the
votes they need to return to people to organise them in social reform. Make
leadership groups of them for environment, women's dignity, value systems,
skills development for youth, care for elders. Ensuring rule of law so that
people feel secure in mobility and visibility.
Just as they hold political meetings for seeking votes they
must return to people with social reform agenda. Time to time. And their
performance assessment be not what they gave away free but what transformation
they brought about in quality of life of the people.
One which is inclusive and not divisive.
Creating self reliance
and not dependence and expectations for free lunches.
It's about creating opportunities of social,political and
economic empowerment.
Next leadership is by the public servants.
After getting appointed they must step out daily to see and
review implementation.
They must go to people rather that wait for them to come.
This is will ensure sensitivity, quality performance,
integrity in governance and financial prudence.
Both currently are in serious deficit.
What is being achieved to an extent is through NGOs
supported by CSR.
Or by missionaries and activists on their own.
These have a limited reach.
To ensure comprehensive citizen engagement it has to be an
alignment of intention to serve by elected leadership, appointed public
servants and social workers.
'New India' will be fast forwarded by this synergy.
