An Unexpected Journey to Hong Kong

Traveling with my spirited grandson is always an unforgettable experience. This summer, we ventured to Hong Kong, a city renowned for its impressive infrastructure, robust financial systems, and seamless business operations. As we explored, my grandson couldn't help but marvel at the surroundings, asking, "Why can't we be like this?"

Pride in Our Nation

In response, I took a moment to instill a sense of national pride in him. I shared my thoughts as a proud Army veteran, emphasizing that India, while vast and complex, is also a great nation. Sure, Hong Kong may be smaller, but that doesn’t diminish our achievements.

Highlighting India’s Strengths

I pointed out the strengths of India: we are one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Our advancements in outer space technology, our status as a nuclear power, and commitments towards clean energy truly set us apart. I spoke about our self-sufficiency in food production, diverse industrial landscape, and extensive education network, hoping to inspire pride in his heart.

Questioning the Status Quo

But my grandson had piercing questions that struck at the core of my explanations. He queried, "If we are a great nation, why do people litter? Why do traffic rules often go ignored? Why are stray animals on the streets and why is our drinking water often unsafe?" His observations continued; he noted the stark contrast with Hong Kong where public order seemed natural, and questioned why we still see impoverished individuals on the streets of India.

The Power of Education and Character

Despite my attempts to explain that India is developing and progressing, he countered with a lesson from school: "My teacher said that to become a developed nation, we need national character, discipline, and a strong educational system with values." His words lingered in the air, a simple yet profound reminder that progress is more than just economic growth—it's about character and responsible citizenship.