Lok Samvad | Dr. Nitin Salve
(Public Discourse) The cockroach, an arthropod insect (not an opportunist, as the author humorously notes), is among the most resilient living organisms. Research suggests that cockroaches may have originated in India or Myanmar. Of approximately 4,500 species, around 30 are commonly found in human settlements. The scientific name of the cockroach commonly seen in homes is Periplaneta americana.
Recently, public discourse and statements comparing unemployed youth to cockroaches sparked controversy nationwide. The comparison portrayed cockroaches as troublesome pests that do nothing but create inconvenience. According to the article, unemployed youth were metaphorically depicted as disruptive elements within law, media, transparency systems, and governance structures.
The commentary argues that factors beyond the control of many young people – such as commercialization of education, examination paper leaks, declining examination systems, unemployment, inflation, and corruption – have left many youth isolated and trapped, much like cockroaches hiding in dark corners despite possessing wings but lacking opportunities to “fly.”
(Public Discourse) However, the article emphasizes that cockroaches are among the most durable organisms on Earth. They can survive in extreme environments, from hot deserts to cold regions. The author references claims that while devastation followed the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, cockroaches were among creatures believed capable of surviving due to higher radiation tolerance than humans.
The article further notes their remarkable survival abilities – including enduring long periods without food or water and surviving even severe physical damage. Unlike extinct species such as dinosaurs, cockroaches have adapted and survived over millions of years, symbolizing resilience under harsh circumstances.
The commentary explains that cockroaches are often active at night, possess extraordinary speed, and rely on highly sensitive antennae for survival. Often described as “living fossils,” they are believed to have existed for nearly 250–350 million years with little structural evolution.
(Public Discourse) Drawing a broader social analogy, the author argues that unemployment among youth reflects deeper systemic failures in social, economic, and political systems. According to the commentary, lack of opportunities, resources, and productive direction – combined with misuse of abundant digital access – risks alienating young people from meaningful participation.
The article stresses that society and governance share responsibility for preventing these conditions from worsening and should not underestimate unemployed youth, just as resilient organisms like cockroaches should not be underestimated.
The author concludes by arguing that with proper opportunities, direction, employment, and recognition of their skills, energy, and creativity, today’s young generation could become a transformative force in national development. Rather than merely praising youth symbolically, the focus, the article argues, should be on meaningful employment and opportunities.
The commentary ends with a metaphorical appeal: “Instead of killing cockroaches, maintain cleanliness; similarly, instead of indirectly destroying youth, provide them work, jobs, and opportunities. That is true patriotism and true socialism.”
(The author, Dr. Nitin Salve, is an Associate Professor of Botany at Jamkhed College.)
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