There is a lot of openness in society today, about sex and sexually related topics. Promotional campaigns rampant in the media about these once taboo subjects can be seen everywhere but dont get me wrong! The emphasis here is not on the invasion of our society with western culture but the benefits that we might get out of it. Its about a society left with not much choice but openness or doom. With India averaging amongst those countries with the highest HIV and AIDS inflicted populations, its time we shape up or land ourselves in a situation into which we will sink deeper and deeper like a cesspool from where no one can help us escape.

For us the only way to avert a catastrophic situation in the future is awareness. Awareness is the keyword for all sections and stratums of society. Very little has been done on that account but a start in itself is encouraging. We need to prioritize the elements on which the future of countries rests. Ask an economist and most would say that the economic growth rate of a country is calculated on the basis of the total youth population in its society. The total number of the Nineteen and Twenties something, are the ones that make the real difference. The economies of the future are the ones rich in human resources and fortunately for us, we are very richly endowed with this in particular. It is about time the authorities plan a campaign targeted specifically for them; the youth and future of our country.

Condom vending machines inside college premises could be a good start. Awareness among youth in general whether through free distribution of contraceptives or through work groups that can closely network with the young crowds is a good idea. On a positive note we must realize that rather than complain about our ever growing population we must learn to value it. The youth of our country are our only true treasure and we must learn to value this asset.