The country’s recent actions in the face of the Pulwama attack had the entire nation
rallying in support, either pouring out their encouragement though various
social media platforms or taking to the streets in peaceful marches. While
these actions speak volumes of the feeling of patriotism that our youth
possess, is this feeling limited to the posts from their electronic devices or
does it translate into real life action, where they are willing to join our
brave jawans on the line of control? There is one clue for an easy answer. Many
felt joining the armed forces was a “career’, very few called it a ‘service’ or
a ‘mission’. Therein lies the answer.
When India made
air strikes, there was a huge surge of patriotism. The internet is a powerful
weapon in the world. India saw huge internet patriotism and solidarity post the
air strikes with huge posts and likes and it was real for all Indians in true
spirit. It is this modern India that expresses through internet and social
media. We are also seeing many young Indians already moving to join the Indian
Armed Forces to serve the nation.
TRUSHA PANVELKAR,
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR,
RIBANDAR
There have been
many people posting quotes and reactions to the Pulwama attack, and it is good
that the youth are interested and happy to witness India doing something right
after such a long time.. It is not necessary that if we are proud of such an
event in history we have to compulsorily show our patriotism by joining the
forces. Patriotism can be showed in various ways, for example keeping India
clean. And social media or not, everyone liked sharing their emotions on the
proud moment. For many of us it was like a relief, ‘Wow India finally
accomplished something’. Similarly for others, it was a different kind of
reaction. I guess those who have the intention to join military forces will
obviously attempt to.
SWAPNIL ANGEL SAMAD,
BA MASS MEDIA
STUDENT, PANJIM
Apart from
having all those posts circulating on social media, it should encourage the young
generation to join military forces. It’s high time for all of us to understand
the importance of military jobs. I feel that it’s a changed India, where young
people are intelligent, enthusiastic and they are prepared to serve their
country. Of course, no one is forced to join the military, but those who are
interested should be given the opportunity.
ARTI KANTI,
YOUNG FOUNDER OF
SERENE HERBS, CALANGUTE
Indian youth
are always patriotic towards the country, and it’s always a dream of a
youngster to be a part of the Indian military forces. After the recent attacks,
the government will and should focus on recruiting more individuals. This will
give us an opportunity to be a part of the proud military service apart from
just showing our love through online platforms. I believe that saying something
on social media and actual being on the battleground is an entirely different
experience; you get to know the real struggles only though the latter.
AHRAZ MULLAH, STATE PRESIDENT,
NATIONAL STUDENTS UNION OF INDIA (NSUI)
A lot of people
have enrolled in this issue through social media, some truly concerned while
others just living in the moment. the high risk associated with joining the
army isn’t the only factor for a shortage of personnel in the army. Today’s
youth seek not just superior salaries but the freedom to retain mobility in the
career market. This make a career in the Army an unattractive option.
GRAHAM ALPHONSUS,
BBA STUDENT, MARGAO

