Different conceptions of education a child
Communalism refers to a situation where people develop strong loyalty towards their own religious group and begin to see other religious groups as enemies or threats. It creates division in society based on religion and encourages an “us vs. Them” mindset. Communalism arises when religious identity becomes more important than national identity, and when political leaders, organisations or groups use religion to gain power, votes or influence. Historically, factors like colonial policies of “divide and rule,” socio-
economic inequality, lack of education and mistrust among communities contributed to its growth. Communalism leads to serious consequences such as riots, violence, destruction of property, loss of life, displacement of families and long-lasting hatred between communities. It weakens democracy, disrupts social harmony and slows down national development. To reduce communalism, measures such as promoting secular education, inter-
community dialogue, strict action against hate speech and unfair propaganda, encouraging cultural mixing, and ensuring equal opportunities to all religious groups are essential. Ultimately, communalism is a threat to social unity, and only tolerance, mutual respect and awareness can help maintain peace in society.
Juvenile delinquency refers to illegal, antisocial or harmful behaviour committed by children or adolescents under the age of 18. These acts may include theft, truancy, drug use, violence, vandalism or any behaviour that breaks social norms or laws. Juvenile delinquency occurs due to a combination of personal, family, social and economic factors. Personal factors include lack of self-control, low self-esteem, peer pressure and desire for excitement. Family factors such as broken homes, abuse, neglect, poverty, harsh parenting or absence of parental supervision greatly influence a child’s behaviour. Social factors like negative peer groups, neighbourhood crime, easy access to drugs, school failure and lack of recreational facilities also play a major role. Poverty and unemployment create frustration, pushing youths towards illegal activities for money or status. Media influence, violent content and internet exposure can also encourage risky behaviour. Juvenile delinquency has serious effects on society, such as increased crime, loss of social order and difficulty in rehabilitation. To control it, measures such as proper parenting, quality education, counselling, community programmes, strict law enforcement and the Juvenile Justice System are essential. The focus should be on reform rather than punishment so that young offenders can return to society as responsible citizens.
Poverty is a condition in which individuals or families lack the financial resources needed to meet basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, healthcare and education. It is not only the absence of income but also the absence of opportunities and dignity. Poverty arises from multiple causes such as unemployment, low wages, lack of education, unequal distribution of wealth, rapid population growth, social discrimination, poor health, and natural or man-made disasters. People living in poverty often face malnutrition, poor living conditions, lack of sanitation, limited access to services and vulnerability to exploitation. Children from poor families are more likely to drop out of school and engage in child labour, which continues the cycle of poverty across generations. Poverty also leads to social problems like crime, homelessness, ill-health and marginalisation from mainstream society. To reduce poverty, governments implement welfare schemes, employment programmes, free education, food security, healthcare support and skill development initiatives. Long-term solutions require economic growth, equal opportunities, social justice and empowerment of women and vulnerable groups. Poverty therefore is a multidimensional issue that affects economic, social and psychological aspects of life, and addressing it is essential for a just and developed society.