Every individual is part of a community, Which necessitates adherence to fundamental values and conduct. This concept is known as civic awareness, Or Pourabodham. Civic awareness reflects the ethics of a contemporary community. Humans are inherently Social beings; no one can thrive or meet all their needs in isolation without support from others.                                                 

When we venture beyond our front doors, everything we encounter belongs to the collective. For example, public transport, roadways, healthcare facilities, work places add landmark are communal assets, not personal possessions. It’s not about using these resources at will; we must recognize that others share them, and our actions should not create disturbances.

It’s important to remember that paying taxes does not grant us exclusive right to any property.

Each citizen in India holds pride in their nationality and the fact that India boasts one of the world most vibrant cultures. However, do all Indians genuinely fulfill their civic duties? The absence of civic sense mainly  stems from ignorance and, in some instances, intentional misconduct. Presently, no nation exhibits perfect civic awareness, but Norway, Switzerland, Denmark and Sweden stand out as exemplars. In Asia, Japan and Singapore are the foremost leaders in civic responsibility. Within India states like Kerala, Tamilnadu, Sikkim and Mizoram are recognized for their elevated civic consciousness.  The level of civic responsibility is unique to each person, which is why no country achieves perfection in this area.

An individual with the civic awareness embodies a commendable human being who respects safeguards both their well-being and the community, ensuring they don’t inconvenience others. It’s not assured that a well educated person will possess civic sense; their upbringing character and mindsets are influential factors.  While laws can promote civic awareness to some degree, true cultivation requires a foundation of understanding. This understanding should commence at home, persist through education, and be exemplified  in daily life, thereby inspiring others.

Much of what we perceive as correct behavior is often misguided. Let’s scrutinize that.

1. Spitting, urinating and littering communal spaces.
2. Cutting in line at hospitals , ticket booths and other venues.
3. Smoking, using substances and spitting in shared environments.
4. Speaking loudly on the phone , singing or playing audio at a volume that disrupt others in public transport and spaces.
5. Trespassing onto others property, taking fruits or items without consent.
6. Writing, drawing or putting up advertisement in classrooms public areas, or restricted zones.
7. Recklessly driving at high speeds, blocking other vehicles, crossing streets carelessly, using a phone while driving, parking improperly without permission, running red lights, parking on sidewalks, honking excessively,  neglecting to use low beams at night, obstructing ambulances, driving the wrong way, or breaking abruptly
8. Maintaining cleanliness in public restrooms

Awareness among citizens is evolving alongside educational advancements and legal framework. Civic education should initiate at home, where parents serves as the earliest and most significant teachers. It is their duty to instill in children the principles of social living and conduct. Later this should be reinforced in schools. The government should spearhead efforts to enhance civic awareness while media outlets, social platforms, public figures and role models should advocate for the importance of civic responsibility and raise awareness. The preservation of public spaces is not only solely government obligation; it rests on every one of us. While every individual enjoys the freedom to live in India, it is crucial not to infringe upon the right of others. We all aspect fulfilling lives, which is only achievable when we contribute to a harmonious existence for all.