india's greatest challenge

What is the greatest problem facing India today?

Most of you are probably thinking of the following: Population, Healthcare, Education, Poverty, Pollution, Corruption & Infrastructure. Yes, these are all VERY legitimate concerns that need to be addressed.

However, there are two more IMPORTANT areas that are largely overlooked:

1.The Social Divide amongst the various Social ‘Classes’
2.Lack of Social Responsibility and Awareness amongst Everyday Citizens

After many years of research into the various challenges faced by India, I am utterly convinced that the only way India can move forward (and address the above-mentioned issues more efficiently) is by bridging its social divide.

The divide is between those who have opportunities (like everyone reading this) and those that do not. I am NOT talking about a financial divide here - rather the 'understanding divide.'

Most of us can intellectually and superficially comprehend the difficulties faced by ordinary Indians; however we cannot truly empathise and understand their struggle. Most of us simply do not have the interest or opportunity to ‘mix’ with those 'different' to us.

If we can establish some level of empathy, understanding and more importantly a dialogue, then we will be more committed to offering solutions to the various challenges faced by the majority of the population.

But how can this be achieved?

Many of you are probably thinking, "this will never work ... I can't see myself having a meal with a rag-picker, street-worker or drug-addict … we have nothing in common." However, in order for us to truly respond to the problems faced by ordinary Indians – we must develop a relationship with them.

However, this dialogue should not only exist through social workers and NGO’s - but it should exist with EVERYONE and anyone. That includes you and I.

Can YOU Help ..

Everyday I meet people who say to me, "I'd love to be involved in some kind of social work.” However, this is as far their desire goes, because people just don’t know where to start.

I believe real social work doesn’t necessarily involve quiting your job, or giving away all your money, or joining an NGO – it involves taking an ACTIVE interest in the lives of those around you.

It also involves having relationships with people from ALL walks of lives. One of the magical things about India is that such diversity exist all around us – we just have to take the time to appreciate the lives of others.

I believe that this ideology must be instilled in young people, since most of our prejudices are formed at an early age. However, this is also an opportunity for adults to set an example for their children.

The Group

I am in the process of forming a group that deals specifically in bridging this gap in Indian society. It will not be an easy challenge, and it will require a lot of time and commitment - but I have to try.

The goal of this group will be a simple one: to bring out the latent social consciences that exist in us all, and help in bridging the social divide in India.

If you are one of those people who likes sending me ‘pseudo-intellectual’ emails full of precedents outlining why this will never work – then please restrain yourself! Send me an email one you have achieved something of real merit.

However, if you think this is an important enough issue to lend your MIND to and start a new life as a social worker - then I would love to hear your ideas and thoughts!

Please email me at rsvindia @ gmail.com ... TODAY!