Today, the desire to live better than yesterday drives our people. We have to understand and find solutions to pressing matters like malnutrition for this desire to be fulfilled. Public-private partnerships, citizens groups, NGOs, government institutions have to work together to garner the trust and confidence needed to achieve the objectives laid down by the government. It is only by working together that we can solve the problems of population control, poverty, affordable healthcare, sanitation, food and water.

There are challenges before us; they will always be there. Most MPs in parliament realise that the scepticism about politics in general has to be done away with, by not becoming part of the system, as most people tend to believe, but rather by questioning, debating, and stating varying points of view to ensure a difference is made to India’s future. In essence, we have to challenge the system and think out of the box. It is not easy, but if we are collectively determined, it is achievable. I am optimistic. That is why we were sent to Parliament, and I am sure that is what we will ultimately deliver: a better future where we all work together as a team.

The writer is a Rajya Sabha MP

express@expressindia.com