Read the passage given below :
India is on the path of greatness. But where will this greatness come from ? Is it only the government of a country that can lead it to greatness ? Is it only the political leaders that can shape the future of a nation ? No. The true greatness of any nation **** in its people.
There is capability for greatness in every citizen of the land. For, the true owners of our nation are its citizens. The government is only the guardian of the nation and is ready to serve the people of the country. This is what a true democracy should be like. However, for a true democracy to succeed, the citizens have to play a larger role and fulfill their duties towards the nation.
The most famous line from the US President John F Kennedy’* inaugural address is, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”. What is this but a call for citizens to rise to the occasion and do their duty ?
In a true democracy, people get the leaders they deserve. If we simply sit in our drawing rooms and debate the quality of leadership this country has, we will achieve nothing. We have to play an active role in creating a new type of leadership because it is we, the people, who own the nation.
We can achieve this kind of leadership firstly by educating the youth of the country which is of supreme importance. Second, parents need to teach their **** the importance of obeying laws. **** need to learn and be encouraged to express their talents and skills and consider themselves as the real strength of their nation. We need to encourage new ideas and creativity.
Whether you start a small business, write an article, teach a child, shop at local stores, not pollute your environment, participate in cleanliness drives, create a work of art, volunteer for some social cause or another similar effort, you are performing your duty as a citizen. You are contributing to the consciousness of the community development and this will begin the process of change. Considering that most young people spend most of their time at school or at work, it is also important for teachers and employers to inculcate a sense of duty in the hearts and minds of young people.
Answer the following questions briefly :
(a) Where does the true greatness of any nation lie ?
(b) What is the role of the government?
(c) What did the US President say in his inaugural address ?
(d) How can a true democracy develop ?
(e) How can we achieve good leadership ?
(f) How can **** consider themselves as the real strength of their nation ?
(g) When do you perform your duty as a citizen ? Write any one activity,
(h) Who should inculcate a sense of duty in the ****?
