Shillong, March 27 : The Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2025 has the potential to shape policies that will impact future generations, with its resolutions reflecting the brilliance of youth-driven policies, said Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Thomas A. Sangma, at the Inaugural Session of the State Round of the event.
Hosted by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly in collaboration with Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) and the National Service Scheme (NSS), the State Round took place at the Lariti International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, Mawkasiang. The initiative, launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, aligns with the Viksit Bharat@2047 framework envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The event saw the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Thomas A. Sangma, Umsning Legislator Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, Mawlai Legislator Brightstarwell Marbaniang, Rajabala Legislator Dr. Mizanur Rahman Kazi, Deputy Government Chief Whip & Mookaiaw Legislator Nujorki Sungoh, Commissioner & Secretary of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Dr. Andrew Simons, Secretary of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Malthus S. Sangma, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Higher & Technical Education (DHTE) F. Rumnong, and Deputy Director of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) D. Rapsang, among other officials.
In his address at the Inaugural Session, Speaker Thomas A. Sangma stated that the final resolution that will be crafted after the culmination of the event will reflect the brilliance of youth driven policies, bringing them to the forefront of media and governance.
He also shared words of encouragement as this initiative aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, urging participants to dare to dream while remaining grounded in humility, to respect diverse perspectives as India’s greatest strength lies in its unity, and to recognize that every voice matters and has the power to inspire transformation. He stressed that these discussions are not merely debates but contributions to shaping policies that could have a lasting impact on the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Andrew Simons, Commissioner & Secretary of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, described the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament as an inspiring platform for students to engage in meaningful discussions on constitutional matters. He highlighted Article 19, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression, and Article 21, which safeguards the right to personal liberty. He pointed out that while there may be differing views between the ruling and opposition sides, discussions like these allow participants to express, share, and ultimately build consensus on key national issues.
Deputy Director of the Directorate of Higher & Technical Education, F. Rumnong, presented the Keynote Address at the Inaugural Session and emphasized the role of collaboration between youth organizations and the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly in deepening young people’s understanding of India’s democratic process. He expressed confidence that such initiatives would inspire the next generation to engage actively in democracy and contribute to nation-building.
PARLIAMENT SESSION
Sixty-nine students from various districts across the state participated in the Youth Parliament Session, centered around two key themes: “75 Years of the Indian Constitution: A Journey of Rights, Duties, and Progress” and “The 11 Sankalp of Samvidhan Divas: A Pledge to Strengthen India’s Constitutional Values.”
The deliberations were assessed by a distinguished jury comprising Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, Umsning Legislator Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, and Mawlai Legislator Brightstarwell Marbaniang.
Participants were evaluated based on six key criteria: Content Relevance, Clarity and Structure, Verbal Communication & Body Language, Innovation & Creativity, Language & Fluency, and Adherence to Time.
The event provided a structured platform for youth aged 18-25 years to engage in discussions, encouraging informed public discourse and fostering the ability and fostering the ability to articulate opinions on societal issues. The initiative also aims to cultivate respect for diverse perspectives and instill the importance of disciplined dialogue within democratic institutions.
LIST OF WINNERS
First Prize: Saurabh Kumar, North Eastern Hill University representing East Khasi Hills District
Second Prize: Kalung Angel, Don Bosco College, Byndihati, representing East Jaintia Hills District
Third Prize: Dabitkupar Syiemlieh, Sngap Syiem College, Mawkyrwat representing South West Khasi Hills District
The first, second, and third-place winners received certificates and cash prizes of ₹10,000, ₹5,000, and ₹3,000, respectively. Additionally, all 69 participants were awarded certificates of participation.
The top three participants from each state will advance to the National Level, which will be held in New Delhi, where they will speak on the topic “One Nation, One Election: Simplifying Democracy, Amplifying Progress, Ensuring Stability.”
Mawlai Legislator Brightstarwell Marbaniang, Umsning Legislator Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, and Mookaiaw Legislator and Deputy Government Chief Whip Nujorki Sungoh took the stage to deliver their closing remarks.
Mawlai Legislator Brightstarwell Marbaniang encouraged the participants, emphasizing that they are no less capable than students from other parts of the country. He highlighted that for 75 years, the Indian Constitution and democracy have withstood the test of time, and with over 100 amendments, the Constitution remains a living testament to the people of India.
Umsning Legislator Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh praised the participants, stating that they represent the future of the state. He also stressed the need to change public perception towards politics, asserting that every positive development in the country has been driven by politicians.
Mookaiaw Legislator and Deputy Government Chief Whip Nujorki Sungoh expressed his admiration for the confidence displayed by the participants, hoping that in the future, the state will produce more civil servants.
In his closing address, Secretary Malthus S. Sangma emphasized that such programs contribute to a brighter future for the state. He commended all participants for their performance and expressed optimism that, with time, their skills and potential will continue to grow.
