Guiding the way
DISCIPLINE in India is undergoing a transformative shift. In Faridkot, Punjab, a group of rowdy students, who allegedly endangered police officers during a clash recently, were met with an unusual punishment: a week of assisting the traffic police for two hours daily after school. This innovative disciplinary approach aims to teach civic responsibility while deterring future misconduct. In Srinagar, a tragic car accident involving underage drivers in mid-November led to a crackdown on violations. The authorities seized vehicles and implemented stricter licensing policies while counselling parents and students to address the root causes of rash behaviour. This holistic tactic underscores the need for behavioural reform rather than mere retribution. In schools, innovative methods are gaining ground. For example, rowdy students in UP schools are assigned such tasks as organising books or assisting peers. Meanwhile, creative punishments like rewriting lessons or engaging in debates channel energy constructively and emphasise growth over reprimand.
Discipline should not be about just imposing consequences but also guiding young minds toward self-awareness and societal contribution. Restorative justice, community service and counselling are replacing outdated corporal punishment, which often leaves emotional scars. Nevertheless, these reforms require collective commitment. Policymakers must institutionalise such practices, educators must adopt empathetic approaches and parents must support these efforts. Experts from NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences) have stressed the importance of balancing love and limits at home to complement school-based initiatives.
Constructive discipline reflects the society’s recognition that youth’s missteps often stem from immaturity, not malice. By transforming mistakes into learning experiences, we not only shape better individuals but also foster a more compassionate community. It’s time to make responsibility the cornerstone of discipline, steering youth away from chaos and towards civic-mindedness.
