New Delhi | June 26: In a meeting this week, the core committee members of the National Child Development Council (NCDC) gathered to express their deep concerns about the rising threat of war worldwide. The session included reflections from various senior members. They focused on ongoing violence, particularly the wars in Ukraine, the Middle East, and the increasing involvement of global powers.
The committee unanimously condemned the devastating effects of modern warfare. This includes the loss of life and environmental harm, as well as long-lasting psychological impacts on people, especially children and future generations.
Committee members noted that in the past, wars were confined to battlefields and soldiers. Today’s wars, driven by technology, affect civilians, children, and even nature. Innocent lives are lost, and societies are left fractured.
Members criticized world leaders for putting personal power and political gain ahead of peace and human welfare. They expressed disappointment in the lack of strong leadership willing to advocate for peace.
Referring specifically to the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict and the newly ignited tensions between Iran and Israel, the speakers emphasized that these wars, initially thought to be short-lived, have continued for years, causing immense and ongoing harm.
A senior NCDC member, reflected on the historical roots of warfare, from ancient empires to modern nuclear threats. He concluded that most modern wars are driven not by necessity but by ego, jealousy, and hidden political agendas. He urged the international community to “struggle for peace,” asserting that development without peace is meaningless.
Another core member, passionately discussed the disproportionate suffering of ordinary people, especially women and children. She criticized higher authorities who remain safe while regular citizens bear the brunt of the violence. “No war is for the betterment of the people,” she said, adding that brotherhood and understanding should replace hatred and hostility.
The meeting wrapped up with a unified call to action: All nations must unite against war in any form. People around the world should speak out against violence and push governments to pursue diplomacy and dialogue. Education systems should teach values of love, peace, and mutual respect from an early age to counter the growing normalization of cruelty and conflict. “We must teach our children not just math and science, but humanity,” one member summed up.
The NCDC core committee stressed that war is not a solution but a failure of civilization. They pledged to continue advocating for peace, engage with international child welfare bodies, and raise awareness about the often-overlooked consequences of armed conflict on children and future generations.
