Travelogue: "Vietnam's Socialism Provides Greater Social Security"

 Subhendu Ray

At a time when socialism seems to be losing its essence in India and communal harmony is being greatly compromised, a short visit to Vietnam has given me a unique exposure to a country that prioritizes social security for its citizens. Vietnam, led by a Communist government, has been fighting to develop the country based on socialist ideology since its establishment.

What sets Vietnam apart from other Southeast Asian countries is its focus on social security. Vietnam has a social security system that provides basic healthcare, education, and pension benefits to its citizens. The government is committed to investing in public services, including healthcare and education, to improve the quality of life for its citizens.

Today tourism emerges as a significant factor contributing to Vietnam's economic growth. The improvement in air connectivity between India and Vietnam has made the country a prominent pocket-friendly tourist destination. The country has been able to develop its tourism industry, offering beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and a rich culture to visitors.

During my recent 8-day visit to Vietnam, I saw how the government's commitment to social security has resulted in a strong sense of community among its citizens. People seem to have a deep respect for their government, and there is a sense of unity and common purpose among them. The country's focus on socialist principles has helped create a society where the government is seen as a partner, rather than an adversary, in the pursuit of a better life.

Vietnam's experience shows that socialism can be a viable alternative to the dominant economic model of neoliberalism. While there are certainly challenges associated with socialist governance, Vietnam's success in achieving social security and economic growth suggests that it is possible to strike a balance between economic growth and social welfare.

Vietnam is undoubtedly a unique travel destination with a rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly people. Our trip was filled with fascinating experiences, from exploring the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to discovering the serene beaches of Vung Tau and Long Hai and the tranquil Mekong Delta in Cambodia. The country's economic growth and focus on social security are notable, and the hospitality of its people is remarkable.

One of the highlights of our trip was the cruise ride in Ha Long Bay, which was awe-inspiring. The Thang Long water puppet show was another unique experience that showcased the country's cultural heritage. The military history museum and the Imperial Cathedral in Hanoi provided a glimpse into Vietnam's past, while the Ben Thang market and Independent Palace in Ho Chi Minh City offered an insight into its modern-day lifestyle.

The people of Vietnam are courteous, respectful, and always willing to lend a helping hand. We were impressed by their love and pride for their country, which was evident in the way they maintained cleanliness and orderliness on the streets.

The motorbikes, which are ubiquitous on the roads of Vietnam, are a unique feature of the country. It was fascinating to see how the traffic flowed smoothly without any honking, despite the huge number of motorbikes. However, it is essential to note that traffic accidents remain a significant concern, and the country is taking measures to improve road safety.

As a non-vegetarian, I was excited to try out the local cuisine in Vietnam. While I enjoyed some of their delicacies like pho, coconut tea, and coconut ice cream, I was not entirely satisfied with some of their other famous dishes. Therefore, we had to look for Indian restaurants like Namaste Hanoi, Namaste India, and Banana Leaf.

Our new year's eve at the Walking Street was a memorable experience, and we were amazed to see how clean and tidy the street was, despite the thousands of people who had celebrated there the previous night. Overall, our trip to Vietnam was an eye-opening and enriching experience that left us with many fond memories.

My visit to Vietnam has given me a unique perspective on a country that is committed to socialist principles and is reaping the benefits of its investment in social security. The country's focus on public services, such as healthcare and education, has created a sense of community among its citizens that is inspiring to see. As India struggles to maintain communal harmony and revive the essence of socialism, Vietnam serves as an example of what can be achieved when a government prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.