Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre

Question 26. Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised? Give reasons for your stance.

The enduring moral quandary surrounding the debate on whether to elevate or lower the legal drinking age elicits diverse perspectives. In my unwavering conviction, the age for alcohol consumption should unequivocally be heightened to a minimum of 21 years. In this discourse, I will elucidate the reasons that underpin my resolute stance.

Commencing with the premise that alcohol is an inherently addictive substance, once an individual embarks on that trajectory, the prospect of reversing course becomes a labyrinthine endeavor. In essence, one must be unequivocally resolute in deciding whether to initiate the journey into alcohol consumption. The role of maturity in this context is pivotal, as the susceptibility of youngsters to alcoholism often stems from peer pressure and a lack of discernment. Consequently, elevating the age limit to a minimum of 21 years would undoubtedly facilitate these individuals in drawing sagacious conclusions regarding their foray into the perilous path of alcoholism. Intriguingly, the primary cause of road accidents is frequently attributed to drunk driving, with a significant demographic comprising young individuals. For instance, Kerala state has adeptly mitigated accidents involving young drunk individuals by elevating the age limit from a mere 18 to 21 years in recent years.

Furthermore, the specter of alcoholism among young individuals casts a pervasive shadow, extending beyond physical health to encompass a myriad of psychological concerns. Primarily, its deleterious impact on academic pursuits is profound, rendering students addicted to alcohol seldom ascending the academic ladder as they lose cognitive focus. Secondly, crime rates among young alcoholics escalate to a degree far surpassing their non-alcoholic counterparts. Finally, exposure to alcohol at an early age often serves as a gateway to various other substances, including illicit drugs. Thus, it is perfectly justified to stipulate that individuals may embark on alcohol consumption only when they attain the age of 21. While certain Indian states like Mizoram and Nagaland have outrightly prohibited alcohol, establishing a uniform qualifying age as 21 nationwide would undoubtedly serve as a bastion, shielding our youth and fortifying their future.

In conclusion, in addressing the ethical dilemma surrounding youngsters’ access to alcohol, elevating the qualifying age to a minimum of 21 years not only enables these individuals to make judicious decisions regarding alcohol consumption but also contributes to a multifaceted reduction in accidents, psychological issues, academic failures, and drug abuses among the youth. Given that the youth embody the future promises of our nation, it is imperative that we employ all available means to safeguard and nurture their well-being.