Rethinking Problem-Solving: A Collaborative Approach to Societal Challenges (ICC Blog # 96)

"Problems are only opportunities with thorns on them." — Hugh Miller

Creative by Dr Sp Mishra

Problem-solving is a fundamental skill, not just in personal life but also at broader levels—society, organisations, states, and nations. While individuals can handle personal challenges within their sphere of influence, larger problems require multi-level collaboration involving different stakeholders. A unilateral approach to a societal issue is often insufficient, as larger problems involve multiple affected groups, conflicting interests, and diverse viewpoints.

A classic example of such policy-making complexities is the prohibition of liquor in India, where different states have attempted bans at various times, each facing unique challenges. The success or failure of such policies depends on enforcement, social acceptance, and the ability to create viable alternative solutions. Alcohol prohibition in India - Wikipedia

Liquor Prohibition in India: A Timeline of Bans and Their Challenges

Many Indian states have attempted alcohol prohibition over the years, but the results have varied. The earliest and longest-running prohibition exists in Gujarat, enforced in 1960, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideology of temperance. Other states followed suit, attempting liquor bans at different periods:

Nagaland (1989): Prohibition was introduced due to concerns about alcoholism and social disruptions, but weak enforcement led to rampant smuggling and illegal liquor trade.

Mizoram (1997–2015, reinstated in 2019): Mizoram initially banned liquor in 1997, lifted the ban in 2015, and then reinstated it in 2019. The latest amendment, effective in 2025, allows for limited alcohol production by local farmers, acknowledging their economic needs while maintaining restrictions on commercial alcohol.

Bihar (2016): Implemented a blanket prohibition on alcohol to curb social issues such as domestic violence and health concerns, but the state has since struggled with illegal liquor trade due to smuggling from neighbouring regions.

Lakshadweep (Ongoing): The union territory has enforced strict prohibition for decades, largely due to its Muslim-majority population and cultural norms. Unlike other states, enforcement remains relatively effective due to its geographical isolation.

While alcohol bans intend to reduce addiction, crime, and social instability, they have also led to unintended consequences, such as thriving black markets, bootlegging, and the risk of toxic illicit liquor consumption. These challenges raise questions about whether prohibition alone can solve deeper societal issues.

Beyond Liquor Bans: Addressing Root Causes with Holistic Solutions

Many supporters of prohibition believe that restricting alcohol can curb social problems like domestic violence. While excessive drinking can fuel such behaviours, blaming alcohol alone oversimplifies the issue. Domestic violence is deeply rooted in patriarchy, gender inequality, and cultural traditions that marginalise women.

One of the most fundamental solutions is education. Bihar, for instance, faces significant challenges in improving literacy, particularly for women. The state's literacy rate stands at 74.3%, below the national average, and female literacy is only 60.5%, compared to the male literacy rate of 79.7%. Addressing these gaps could empower women, create economic opportunities, and drive long-term cultural shifts to reduce gender-based violence.

Instead of focusing solely on prohibition, governments must prioritise education, awareness campaigns, and vocational training to provide long-term solutions for societal issues.

The Limited Capacity of the State Apparatus in Solving Every Problem

Governments play a critical role in policymaking, but they cannot be the sole problem-solvers. The state apparatus has limited capacity in addressing complex societal challenges, as they require multifaceted solutions that involve grassroots efforts, private sector involvement, and collective initiatives.

Expecting governments to provide all-encompassing solutions to issues like domestic violence, alcoholism, poverty, and unemployment is impractical. Policies like liquor bans are often reactive measures, addressing visible symptoms rather than underlying causes. However, governments can facilitate the right frameworks to ensure that diverse stakeholders, including citizens, businesses, and NGOs, can contribute solutions in a decentralised and effective manner.

A more open society, where problems are collaboratively tackled, will enable faster and more innovative solutions, rather than waiting for the state to provide top-down policies that may have unintended consequences.

Opportunities for the Younger Generation: Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Encouraging open problem-solving frameworks can create opportunities for younger generations to develop future solutions, fostering entrepreneurship and new business models. Many social enterprises and startups today thrive by solving societal challenges rather than waiting for government intervention.

For example, tech-driven initiatives in education, healthcare, and community development are tackling real-world problems through innovation, AI, and digital platforms. Alcohol bans alone may not be effective, but businesses focusing on rehabilitation centers, mental health support, and public awareness campaigns could provide alternative solutions.

If governments move from rigid prohibitions to dynamic and adaptable policies, young innovators will have more room to create economic solutions that align social good with entrepreneurship.

A New Framework for Collaborative Problem-Solving

Instead of state-driven bans, societal challenges require a collaborative approach, where communities, NGOs, private organisations, and policymakers work together. A more dynamic system could involve:

1. A Public "Problem Bank" – A platform where societal challenges are openly discussed, inviting innovative solutions from different sectors.

2. Encouraging Grassroots Innovations – Empowering communities and organisations to propose creative approaches beyond traditional policymaking.

3. State as an Enabler, Not Sole Authority – Governments should facilitate structured solutions rather than impose blanket bans.

4. Focus on Preventive Measures – Long-term investments in education, economic reforms, and awareness programs can address problems at their root, instead of reactive policies.

   
   

Conclusion: Collective Action for Meaningful Change

Societal challenges require cooperative efforts rather than quick fixes. Instead of relying solely on prohibition, a more nuanced, participatory approach involving education, awareness, and structured frameworks will yield sustainable solutions. If states like Bihar and Gujarat truly aim for lasting change, empowering communities and tackling root causes may prove far more effective than a blanket alcohol ban. Furthermore, creating opportunities for the younger generation to solve problems through innovation and entrepreneurship could lead to long-term social and economic transformation.