A country is built when its citizens are aware, hardworking, and its leaders are honest. Let’s take the example of Singapore—a small island nation with no natural resources. Yet today, Singapore is one of the world’s most prosperous, clean, and well-managed countries. The reason lies in its honest leadership, investment in the education system, and strict laws. A leader named Lee Kuan Yew took strong measures against corruption and strengthened the nation.

Similarly, Japan was devastated after World War II. When atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the cities turned to ashes. Yet today, Japan stands as one of the world’s most powerful, technologically advanced, and disciplined countries. The reason is the Japanese people’s patriotism, hard work, and discipline.

Our neighboring country Bhutan, though small, has also become an exemplary nation by prioritizing “Gross National Happiness” over economic indicators. They have focused on education, healthcare, and the environment.

Around the 1950s, South Korea was one of the poorest countries, similar to Nepal. But within a few decades, they emphasized education, industry, and technology, and chose the right leaders. Today, South Korea is a global leader in mobile technology, automobiles, and innovation. There are many such countries that have emerged as global competitors in a short period.

Nepal too can be built, but only when each of us makes an honest effort from our own place—teachers in teaching, farmers in farming, students in studying, doctors in service, and leaders in leadership. If everyone sincerely fulfills their responsibilities, it won’t take long for the country to rise. Nepal is a beautiful country, rich in natural resources. However, the slow pace of development is mainly due to our negligence, corruption, laziness, and poor choices in leadership.

Most importantly, we must be able to choose the right leadership. We must not vote based only on speeches, but based on values and character. A country will not be built until honest individuals reach power. The country is built through our small actions, honest behavior, and positive mindset. If we all start thinking “I can change the country,” the country will start transforming itself. If each of us lays our own brick sincerely, one day the palace of the nation will shine bright.

Therefore, to build the country, we don’t need to wait for others. We must start by improving ourselves today and speak out against wrongdoings. That is how a country is built.

Young Commentator: Paras Kumar Saud                                               From nepal