The theme of our conference was "Sustainable Lifestyle for a Green Economy: The Future We Want." Yet, when I wake up today, the news is filled with war—the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Hamas war, the Bangladesh crisis, attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus, and many more.
I could write volumes about the importance of reducing carbon emissions, backed by scientific explanations. But when I look back, it all boils down to a single question:
We had hope yesterday that we would work together on global issues, but today, that hope is gone. Why?
If we don’t find a concrete answer and solutions to this question now, the world will not be able to avoid World War III—an inevitable path to doomsday.
The truth is, the world is failing to engage youth in sustainability and to safeguard them from conflicts and wars. Instead of empowering young minds to work towards a better future, they are being caught in the crossfire of political agendas, economic instability, and violent conflicts.
I am reminded of the words of Mrs. Sindhushree Khullar (IAS), then Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India:
"You have choices which even my generation and the generation of my fellow panelists did not have. One choice you do not have is to remain disengaged from your community as a person larger than yourself."
During the conference, we met, shared ideas, and discussed a sustainable economy. We returned home with the determination to create the future we envisioned. I chose to study computer science because I believed technology would play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions. Today, I run Yantriksh Cybernetics, a smart software and IoT solutions company that is bringing social change and benefiting millions of people in India.
I am grateful to my country that I do not have to wake up fearing bombs falling on my home or conflicts tearing my nation apart. But just because my nation is at peace does not mean the world will be safe.
The only way to save this world is to embrace the ancient philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—"The world is one family." The world must believe in this principle and work together to keep this global family at peace, for that is the only way to protect our shared home.
I will repeat the same words I shared that day:
"Children and youth are the future of any country. They can change the world. They can do anything they want—if they wish to do it."
Anyone from UNEP TUNZA Children & Youth Conference 2012, you can write directly to me for collaboration: ceo[at]yantriksh.com otherwise info[at]yantriksh.com
