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Are we preparing students only to be academically successful, or are we also preparing them to become responsible citizens?

The recent developments surrounding competitive examinations such as NEET have once again highlighted an important question for our education system: Are we preparing students only to be academically successful, or are we also preparing them to become responsible citizens? In a democracy, every citizen has the constitutional right to express concerns and seek justice. However, true education teaches us that before reacting, we must first understand the facts, analyse the evidence, and then respond with responsibility. When young students or even parents are influenced by rumours, incomplete information, or emotional provocation, it becomes easy to lose sight of civic responsibility. Respect for public property, respect for institutions, respect for teachers, elders, and those holding constitutional positions are fundamental values that every educated citizen must uphold, even while expressing disagreement. The role of schools is to develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and emotional maturity so that children learn to differentiate between right and wrong based on facts rather than emotions or public pressure. The NEET situation has seen multiple reviews, investigations, judicial scrutiny, and corrective measures by the concerned authorities. While concerns should always be heard and addressed through lawful and peaceful means, disrupting public peace, damaging property, or encouraging unrest cannot become the model of responsible citizenship. The need of the hour is an education system that nurtures thoughtful individuals who question with wisdom, verify before believing, and choose dialogue over disorder, thereby strengthening both democracy and the nation.