An Ideal Citizen - School Essay

A country is fortunate whose citizens follow the ideals of the great people, because progress and prosperity of a country depend upon the number of ideal citizens that inhabit it. A country the people of which are disregardful of its interest is generally doomed to decay and decline. Unfortunately, our country does not seem to be having a high number of ideal citizens. Ideally, all inhabitants of a country should be ideal citizens. We must try to understand the qualities of an ideal citizen so that we ourselves can become ideal citizens.

An ideal citizen considers his country above his selfish interest. He is a thorough patriot. He lives and dies for his country. But he does not believe in narrow chauvinism, nor does he hate the people of other countries. He believes in the policy of “Live and let live” and scorns imperialism.

An ideal citizen applies the same principle to his neighbours whom he loves and helps them in times of need. He has malice towards none. Jealousy, trickery, leg-pulling, back-biting are unknown to him. He keeps himself healthy. He takes care of his personal hygiene, health and nutrition. He himself pursues his studies seriously and tries to spread the light of education all around. To maintain his good health, he takes all the necessary steps like walking, regular physical exercise, participation in games, yoga etc.

An ideal citizen abides by the law. He abhors such practices, as adulteration, corruption, nepotism, black-marketing, smuggling, terrorism, communalism, provincialism etc. Also, he encourages and inspires others to shun all types of malpractice. He helps the government and the police in tracking down anti-social elements and in furthering the causes of national integration and maintenance of law and order.

An ideal citizen has a high civic sense. He does not believe in wastage and luxurious life. Simplicity is the hallmark of his life. He is very considerate to his children, parents and companions. He has a high sense of duty. He does not shirk work. He is not addicted to any evil habits like drinking, smoking, drug-taking etc.

An ideal citizen pays his taxes regularly. He knows that the efficiency of the government depends on the availability of funds which it can utilise for welfare and constructive projects. The greatest source of funds to a government is the regular payment of taxes by its citizens. An ideal citizen never hides his true income. His business transactions are fair, and he does not believe in evasion of any type of taxes including sales tax, excise, toll tax, house tax, property tax etc.

An ideal citizen believes in the democratic process. He casts his vote regularly, judiciously, fearlessly and without any temptation.

An ideal citizen tries to eradicate social evils, such as dowry system, child marriage etc. He asks not what the country has done for him but only what he can do for his country.

An ideal citizen is an asset to the nation, a beacon's light to other citizens. The country can rightly take pride in him.