Engaging Youth in Democracy Through Parliament Competitions
The Union Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has been actively promoting democratic engagement among young people in India since 1966-67. Through various Youth Parliament Competitions, the ministry aims to involve students from schools, colleges, and universities across the nation. These competitions not only educate young minds about the workings of democracy but also instill values of discipline and tolerance. This article explores the different competitions organized by the ministry, the financial assistance provided to states, and the impact of these initiatives on youth engagement.
Youth Parliament Competitions: A Platform for Young Voices
The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs organizes several Youth Parliament Competitions tailored for different educational institutions. These competitions include:
- Youth Parliament Competition for Schools: This competition is specifically designed for schools under the Directorate of Education of the Government of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi and the Department of Education of the New Delhi Municipal Council.
- National Youth Parliament Competition for Kendriya Vidyalayas: Kendriya Vidyalayas, which are central government schools, also participate in this national-level competition.
- National Youth Parliament Competition for Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas: This competition caters to students from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, which are residential schools aimed at providing quality education to talented children from rural areas.
- National Youth Parliament Competition for Universities and Colleges: This competition invites participation from students in higher education institutions, allowing them to engage in parliamentary procedures and discussions.These competitions serve as a vital platform for students to express their views on various national issues, thereby fostering a sense of responsibility and civic engagement among the youth.
Financial Support for Organizing Competitions
To ensure that these competitions reach a wider audience, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs provides financial assistance to states and Union Territories (UTs). This support is contingent upon the completion of the competitions and the submission of claims. The financial assistance is structured based on the strength of the legislature in each state or UT.
For legislatures with up to 100 members, the maximum reimbursement is Rs. 3 lakhs per year. For those with 100 to 200 members, the amount increases to Rs. 4 lakhs. Legislatures with more than 200 members can receive up to Rs. 5 lakhs annually. Additionally, UTs without a legislature are eligible for Rs. 2 lakhs per year. This financial backing encourages states to actively participate in organizing Youth Parliament Competitions, thereby enhancing democratic engagement at the grassroots level.
The NYPS Portal: Expanding Reach and Participation
In a bid to enhance the reach and impact of the Youth Parliament Programme, the Ministry launched the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) portal on November 26, 2019. This initiative allows citizens to participate in Youth Parliament sittings through institutional and group participation. The revamped version, NYPS 2.0, was launched on September 11, 2024, further expanding opportunities for engagement.
The NYPS portal encourages individual participation through quizzes centered on the theme of “Bharatiya Democracy in Action.” Since its inception, over 400,000 students have participated in various Youth Parliament Competitions, with more than 100,000 engaging through the NYPS portal. This initiative not only democratizes participation but also educates young people about the functioning of democracy in India.
Impact on Youth Engagement and Democratic Values
The Youth Parliament Programme plays a crucial role in strengthening the roots of democracy in India. It instills healthy habits of discipline and tolerance among students. By familiarizing them with parliamentary procedures, the program empowers the youth to understand and engage with democratic processes.
The Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Law and Justice, along with the Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, highlighted the significance of these initiatives in a recent Lok Sabha session. The Youth Parliament Programme not only nurtures informed citizens but also prepares the next generation of leaders who can contribute positively to society.
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