Col Sandeep Ahlawat has become a beacon of inspiration for millions of young Indians. His powerful words, delivered across multiple platforms, have motivated countless individuals to dream bigger and strive for excellence. Recently, the EBNW Story team, on behalf of Saksham Sanchar Foundation, had the privilege of meeting him. The purpose of their visit was to extend an invitation to the esteemed officer for Malwa Media Fest 2.0, which took place on January 24th and 25th in Ratlam—a city rich with untold stories. Not only did he share his inspiring journey, but he also encouraged his NCC troops to participate in the event, allowing them to gain valuable exposure to the literary world.
A Mission to Inspire: Reaching Out to the Future Leaders
His objective is clear and ambitious: to inspire and influence as many students as possible to consider a career in the Armed Forces. He has already addressed and interacted with nearly 1.5 lakh students across the length and breadth of the country. For him, the Indian Army is not merely a job—it is a calling, a discipline, and an institution that imparts values, leadership, and a sense of national service without asking for anything in return. The Army remains one of the most trusted institutions in India, embodying an unparalleled sense of integrity and patriotism.
Gen Z and the Dying Art of Face-to-Face Conversations
During his engagements with students on media, Col Ahlawat has expressed concern over a growing issue among today’s youth—the diminishing ability to engage in deep, meaningful conversations. He believes that Gen Z, despite its digital proficiency, struggles with direct interpersonal communication.
“I will talk to you about the importance of face-to-face conversation and why it is dying. Primarily responsible for this is Gen Z. I’m really sorry to say, but today’s youth does not know how to hold a deep, structured, and coherent conversation. Forget about a structured conversation—even initiating small talk is a challenge. They are terrified of engaging in real discussions. Instead, they find solace in emojis and text messages,” he states.
The Importance of One-on-One Conversations
Col Ahlawat firmly believes that the lack of real conversations is leading to a generation that struggles to read facial cues, emotional expressions, and the subtle nuances of human interaction. “Face-to-face conversations unfold slowly. They teach patience, compassion, and empathy. We learn to pay attention to the eyes, tone, and expressions of the other person,” he explains.
So how should one start improving their communication skills? He suggests beginning with the most fundamental unit of support—family.
“Start with your parents—the only people who love you unconditionally. Trust me, it will be a great start.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Motivation
Col Sandeep Ahlawat continues to travel across the country, inspiring young minds to not only consider a career in the armed forces but also to develop essential life skills. His words serve as a wake-up call for Gen Z, urging them to balance their digital lives with real, meaningful interactions. Through his mentorship, countless students have gained a renewed sense of direction, discipline, and purpose.
As India moves forward, leaders like Col Ahlawat play a crucial role in shaping the next generation—not just as soldiers, but as responsible, empathetic, and confident individuals ready to serve their nation in various capacities.