A child who is taught to be proud of his country will grow to make his country proud
of him.

Independence means freedom: We need to make our children realise that freedom bestows both rights and responsibilities. They are free to direct the destiny of their nation. And they need to use this freedom to make a genuine difference.

Instil Basic Civic Sense: We are free to criticize our filthy roads and uncontrolled traffic. Teach them that we are also free to dispose of our trash carefully, park our vehicle with more concern and follow basic traffic rules.

Let them contribute through education: ‘Each one, teach one’ or the ‘literacy mission’ are our missions too. Let the child start by imparting elementary education to servants or nearby slum children.

Inculcate social responsibility: Take him to SOS villages, blind schools or nearby ‘Nishkam Centres’. Allow him to donate money, things, time and efforts in small ways and make his own contribution.

Celebrate Freedom: Greet people with a rousing Vande Matram on National Days. Proudly fly the flag and wear National Colours. Make it a point to watch the parade or the PM’s speech together.

Remind, lest we forget: 1946, 1962, 1965, 1971, 1999, tell them, tell them again and again, show them films, read from books, so that the sacrifices of those who ensured our freedom remain alive
in the heart of every generation. That is our biggest responsibility.