A Theme for Youth

To build a disciplined and resilient young citizenry, India could consider introducing mandatory military service for all youth under 25, ranging from six months to one year. Such a programme would instill survival skills, deepen patriotism, and strengthen respect for our defence forces. India often sees Israel as a role model in resisting terrorism, an achievement that is not a free gift, but the result of a strong nation built on a strong, well-prepared community. One key factor behind that strength is universal military service

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One of the enduring qualities that distinguishes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership is his consistent willingness to invite suggestions and inputs from citizens, whether through his monthly Mann Ki Baat or on important national occasions. This openness to dialogue is rare among world leaders and is a democratic strength worth commending.

As India prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day, the Prime Minister has invited citizens to contribute their thoughts and ideas for his speech from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort on August 15. However, such public calls often generate a vast number of suggestions, making it difficult for the Prime Minister and his team to thoroughly examine each one.

Therefore, this author presents a focused two-part proposal aimed at empowering the nation's youth: lowering the voting age to 16 and introducing mandatory military service.

Lowering the voting age would give young people a greater voice in shaping the country's future. Mandatory military service would build discipline, resilience, and a sense of national duty. Together, these reforms could equip young citizens to face the challenges of the digital age and contribute to building a stronger nation.

India has a tradition of recognising the maturity of its youth. The voting age was lowered from 21 to 18 through the Constitution (Sixty-first Amendment) Act, 1988, on the grounds that young people were "literate and enlightened" and deserved a say in governance.

That same reasoning applies today to 16- and 17-year-olds, who are far more informed and politically aware thanks to the Internet and the now-ubiquitous social media, which were not even dreamt of in the 1990s.

Granting the right to vote to 16-year-olds offers several compelling benefits. Research shows that individuals who cast their first vote while still in a structured environment, such as school or within their family, are more likely to become lifelong voters.