May Good Always Win!

October 01, 2024

In eastern India, particularly in West Bengal, Dussehra marks the end of nine days of Durga Puja, where Goddess Durga is celebrated for defeating the buffalo demon Mahishasur after a fierce battle. This association also symbolises the removal of negative energies and the ushering in of peace and prosperity.

With all the social evils and negative issues prevalent in today’s world, SCARLETT RODRIGUES asked a few RobinAgers about the problems they think need to be overcome to create a better world. Here’s what they had to say.

Tushita Taksande
Class 10, Loyola School, Bhubaneswar

In the world of books, society is often described positively, with no discrimination or judgement. However, in reality, the world is quite the opposite. People are often judged and disrespected based on factors such as their livelihood, looks and colour. This is something that needs to change at the earliest. I think inclusivity and acceptance across all facets of life need to be promoted. Educational programmes that teach equality, diversity and the importance of respect for everyone irrespective of differences should be implemented. Awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of diversity and the effects of discrimination should be launched. Community programmes where people from different backgrounds can interact should be organised to decrease prejudice in society. With these measures, our society could become similar to a society described in an idealistic book.

Saina Wali
Class 10, Gear Innovative International School, Bengaluru

I believe that a serious issue we face presently is climate change, which is caused by carbon emissions from human activities like the burning of fossil fuels. Climate change poses threats to not just humans, but also to a plethora of other species that are on the brink of extinction. It is our responsibility to come together to minimise the impact of climate change before it is too late. People often fail to realise that small changes can have a large impact, even if it is something as simple as using bags made of sustainable materials like jute instead of plastic bags. I suggest that with the onset of the festive period, we refrain from bursting crackers that pollute the air and damage our environment. Instead, we can engage in eco-friendly activities like making sweets and planting saplings in our backyards.

Keisha Arora
Class 9, Greenwood High International School, Bengaluru

During the festive season, we are all filled with the spirit of celebration. However, while doing so we also reveal our hypocrisy in upholding our values. I would like to emphasise this with two anecdotes. We worship female deities like Durga Ma during Dussehra and Lakshmiji during Diwali, yet some individuals commit brutal crimes against women and children for their selfish desires. Many of us will start the ‘Diwali ki safai’ soon, as Diwali is celebrated 20 days after Dussehra. This tradition remains relevant, as everyone cleans their homes before the festivities. Yet, we contradict this by throwing garbage and bursting crackers, leaving the surroundings littered and the air polluted. In a society that honours its traditions, it’s time we align our actions with the values we claim to cherish.

Mishka Anand
Class 7, Smt Sunitidevi Singhania School, Thane

Though society has changed over the years and many regulations have been adopted to meet today’s standards, there are still a few problems that need to be resolved soon. A major problem that needs to be addressed is corruption. Officials need to ensure that everyone is treated fairly. Honesty should be practised in day-to-day matters and no one should abuse their position. Bribing and fraud must come to an end. Children should be protected from exploitation and child labour. These evils deprive children of privileges and stop them from leading a healthy life. Casteism is among the main causes of discrimination in India. The practice of assigning roles to people based on their caste or religion should stop. Each person should be given a fair and equal opportunity today.

Sudiksha Padma Solai
Class 5, Christ Nagar International School, Thiruvananthapuram

I have come across instances of bullying and it is a matter that needs attention. Schools and other establishments should have strict rules to tackle bullying. And children should be made sensitive and aware of bullying and how it affects people. I also feel rich and powerful people take advantage of their position and travel in chartered airplanes. This offers them luxury; however, it pollutes the environment and the common man suffers. Public figures should behave responsibly and use electric vehicles as they have the power to set an example for the rest of the world. I also feel there should be educational opportunities for all children and plenty of jobs available. Kidnappers, offenders, robbers and other criminals should be given strict punishments.

Jai Mathur
Class 2, Step by Step School, Noida

People should be kind to everyone around them, especially house help and other service workers. We should donate things we do not need to needy people and children. We should not bully other children in school and be kind to everyone. Everyone is different and we must help each other. People should act responsibly not just at home, but also in their neighbourhood. We should recycle our trash and make use of dustbins to dispose of litter in public places.