Should APJ Abdul Kalam Be Featured On Currency Notes?

Should APJ Abdul Kalam Be Featured On Currency Notes?

Two days after former President APJ Abdul Kalam was laid to rest, the social media became active with the demand of having pictures of ‘People’s President’ on currency notes. Even the sample pictures of Dr. Kalam on the notes went viral on the internet. Previously, the debate on who should be featured on currency note was fumed after RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan last year stated that no one but only Mahatma Gandhi should be featured on currency notes. What is your view? Should APJ Abdul Kalam Be Featured On Currency Notes?

Yes

- APJ Abdul Kalam has positively affected the lives of many people. It was even the case with Mahatma Gandhi. However, Mahatma Gandhi has got support of only the people who believe in non-violence. This kind of categorization of followers is not there in case of Dr. Kalam.

- There is no doubt that Mahatma Gandhi has ruled the hearts of people for years. However, the generation of today fails to connect with him. In such a case, there is a need of change, a need of a face that can connect with today’s generation.

- Dr. Kalam fits as an ideal face symbolizing national identity, He is reckoned as a great scientist, an impressive leader and a youth icon.

- There are many instances which highlight the crystal clear thoughts of Dr. Kalam. He was against putting the broken glasses on the building walls as it can hurt birds. Such a person with a consideration for everyone should be featured on currency notes.

- There is a reason why only Dr. Kalam is known as People’s President. He was able to connect with everyone whether it is youth, children or old people.

No

- The currency notes symbolize national identity and Mahatma Gandhi is the right person to fit in this place. He is not only a popular face in India but is also known for his great deeds on international platform.

- In any case, the basic fact that it was Mahatma Gandhi who played a major role in bringing independence to India cannot be ignored. A free country can only have presidents.

- India is a very sensitive nation especially when something is related to its history, traditions or religions. The matter of change of face on currency notes will only result in political chaos in the nation.

- The currency notes should not have the face of any leader. Instead there should be some other logo or message imprinted on it that can really make a difference to people’s lives.

- Paying tribute to India’s father of the nation on his death, the renowned scientist Albert Einstein quoted, "Generations to come will scarce believe that such a man as this walked the earth in flesh and blood." There were many international leaders who were big followers of Mahatma Gandhi.

- Today at least youngsters know Mahatma Gandhi and his deeds. Removing him from currency notes will work as a measure to force people forget his contribution in making India free and learn from his ideology.

Conclusion

It is not necessary that to bring in the new you have to completely replace the old. There can always be a mid way. The pictures of both Mahatma Gandhi as well Dr. Kalam can be featured on the currency notes.

If that can happen, what the controversy is all about? Both the leaders have significantly contributed to the development of nation. So, the replacement factor should not be considered.

At the same time, it is also true that the younger generation connects with Dr. Kalam, and it is the first time the citizens are demanding for a change. In such a scenario, a mid-way can be figured out.