From Debate to Development
Maanal Kohli
Jammu and Kashmir is often described as a land of beauty, spirituality, and culture. However, behind this image lies a reality of unemployment, poor education, and healthcare systems that struggle to meet people’s needs. For years, social and political discussions in the region have been dominated by debates over religion, culture, and identity. While these are important aspects of who we are, they have also taken attention away from issues that directly affect people’s daily lives.
The question, therefore, is not only about what the government is doing, but also about how society itself thinks and acts. Many people passionately defend cultural or religious ideas, yet few volunteer to teach children, guide unemployed youth, or support families in need. This imbalance points to a deeper issue – our mindset. The way we think about change, responsibility, and success strongly influences the kind of society we build.
Background and Rationale
Unemployment in Jammu and Kashmir remains one of the highest in India. According to government reports, educated youth form a large portion of the unemployed population. Yet, even when opportunities exist, many hesitate to take them if they don’t fit the traditional idea of a “good job.” The cultural belief that only government jobs offer dignity and security limits young people’s willingness to explore private sector work, entrepreneurship, or skill-based employment.
This shows that unemployment is not just an economic problem – it is also a psychological and cultural one. Our upbringing, social norms, and community expectations shape how we define success. Similarly, when people believe that social change is only the government’s duty, civic responsibility weakens. These attitudes form an invisible barrier that holds back progress, even more than lack of funds or infrastructure.
Discussion and Analysis
Cultural Priorities and Public Mindset
Cultural pride is one of Jammu and Kashmir’s greatest strengths, but it can sometimes lead to misplaced priorities. People invest more energy in defending traditions and debating identity than in improving schools, healthcare, or job opportunities. This focus on symbolic pride over practical action has made social challenges worse. While culture teaches values like compassion and community, those lessons are not always reflected in public behavior.
Dependence and the Idea of Change
A common belief in society is that change must come from the government. This mindset creates dependency and reduces initiative. Instead of taking small steps to improve their surroundings, many people wait for authorities to act. Over time, this attitude has created frustration and hopelessness among youth, who feel powerless even when they have skills and ideas.
Breaking this cycle requires building confidence in individual effort. Even small acts-like teaching a child, mentoring a job seeker, or cleaning a public space-can start to rebuild trust and collective responsibility.
Unemployment and Cultural Expectations
Unemployment in the region is linked to both lack of opportunity and narrow cultural definitions of success. Many families still see only government jobs as respectable. As a result, entrepreneurship, vocational training, and creative professions remain undervalued. This mindset not only limits individual growth but also prevents economic diversification. Encouraging young people to think beyond conventional paths and take risks is essential for long-term development.
Social Work and Collective Action
Social work is often misunderstood as charity, but in reality, it is an expression of citizenship and empathy. Real change begins when individuals decide to contribute in small ways. Whether it is helping a neighbor, spreading awareness about hygiene, or mentoring unemployed youth, every action adds to the strength of society.
The educated youth of Jammu and Kashmir have a special responsibility in this regard. Their knowledge and awareness give them the power to influence others and lead by example. If this potential is directed toward social work and community service, the region can move beyond debates toward genuine progress.
Conclusion
The challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir are not only political or economic-they are also deeply connected to the way people think. Our society’s focus on identity, dependence on government, and narrow views of success have slowed development and discouraged initiative. To change this, there must be a shift in mindset: from debate to action, from dependence to participation, and from cultural pride to cultural purpose.
A better Jammu and Kashmir will not be built through endless discussions but through small, collective acts of responsibility. Real progress will come when people start believing that change begins with them.
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