In a vibrant display of democratic fervor, the Government PG College in Rajouri became the epicenter of youthful discourse on Saturday. Organized by ‘My Bharat’ under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the district-level ‘Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament’ brought together aspiring leaders to deliberate on critical national issues.
The event’s central theme, ’50 Years of Emergency: Lessons for Indian Democracy,’ resonated deeply with participants. Students delivered compelling speeches, dissecting the dark chapter of 1975-1977 when civil liberties were suspended. They emphasized the fragility of democratic institutions and the imperative to safeguard fundamental rights.
One young speaker passionately argued, ‘The Emergency teaches us that vigilance is the price of liberty.’ Panels of esteemed judges, including retired medical superintendent Dr. Mahmood Bazzar and education leaders like Prof. Bashir Ahmad, evaluated performances based on content depth, clarity, confidence, and grasp of democratic ethos.
Nitin Hangloo, Deputy Director of My Bharat in Rajouri, and Dr. Khaleeq Ahmad, NSS Program Officer, seamlessly coordinated the proceedings. Dr. Anwar Shah, Principal of the college, graced the occasion as chief guest, alongside other dignitaries.
The top 10 district winners advance to the state level, with the ultimate three securing a spot at the national Youth Parliament in the Parliament of India. This progression offers these young minds a prestigious platform to champion ‘Viksit Bharat’—India’s vision for developed nationhood by 2047.
Such initiatives are pivotal in nurturing a generation attuned to leadership responsibilities, ensuring India’s democratic legacy endures.