Srinagar, Nov 15 (JKNS): The University of Kashmir on Friday hosted the 17th National Youth Parliament Competition, organised by the Department of Students’ Welfare under the aegis of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Parliament House, New Delhi.
The event, held at the University’s Convocation Complex, brought together professionally trained young parliamentarians showcasing their understanding of legislative procedures and parliamentary conduct.
The proceeding of the KU Youth Parliament was witnessed by University Faculty Members, officers, research scholars and students
Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nilofer Khan, in her message, commended the participating students for their confidence, clarity and preparedness.
She said the University is committed to nurturing leadership, critical thinking and democratic values among its young scholars and that such platforms help students gain deeper insights into the functioning of the country’s parliamentary system.
Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi, former Member of Parliament and sitting MLA, appreciated the University’s efforts and said that Youth Parliament initiatives play a vital role in strengthening democracy at the grassroots. He encouraged students to continue engaging with national institutions and to develop informed opinions on issues of public relevance. Shri Sharad Dwivedi, Under Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, praised the University of Kashmir for its professionalism in conducting the event. He lauded the enthusiasm of the participating students and the meticulous training they had undergone, describing the programme as one of the finest platforms for youth engagement in parliamentary practices.
Registrar, University of Kashmir, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, in his remarks, said that the Youth Parliament is a powerful platform that nurtures informed, confident and responsible young citizens. “Our students have shown extraordinary commitment, discipline and maturity throughout this rigorous training. Such initiatives strengthen democratic values and prepare our youth to engage meaningfully with the institutions of governance. The University of Kashmir will continue to support every endeavour that empowers our young minds and broadens their national exposure,” Earlier, Dean Students’ Welfare, Prof. Pervez Ahmed, delivered the welcome address. He highlighted the importance of Youth Parliament in shaping young minds and thanked the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs for their continued support.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer and mentor of the University’s Youth Parliament Team, shared details about the rigorous preparation. He informed that 55 students from the University teaching departments and affiliated/constituent colleges were trained over 60 days, with four-hour sessions daily. The workshop covered the actual functioning of the Lok Sabha and various parliamentary processes, enabling students to perform with authenticity and confidence. During the training, students were given a comprehensive understanding of the actual functioning of the Lok Sabha. They learned how the List of Business is prepared and how prior submitted questions are taken up in written form. They practiced the formal procedure of Oath or Affirmation, understood the relevance of Obituary References, and observed how New Ministers are introduced in the House. Special focus was laid on the conduct of Question Hour, dealing with issues such as Breach of Privilege, and the process of placing Papers on the Table of the House. Students were also trained in handling Messages received from the Upper House, acknowledging Foreign Delegations, and participating effectively in Zero Hour. They studied the importance of Matters under Rule 377 and the urgency-driven Calling Attention Motions. The workshop concluded with detailed sessions on Legislative Business, including Bills for Introduction, Bills taken up for Consideration, and the role and significance of Private Member’s Bills.
Earlier 51 teams from across the country competed in the group level, out of which only eight teams, including the University of Kashmir, qualified for the national round. These eight best teams are now competing for the top honour. The winning team will be invited by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs to perform inside the Parliament itself, in the presence of a distinguished audience including Members of Parliament and Union Ministers” Dr. shahid said. The event concluded with appreciation for the dedication of students, trainers and organisers who contributed to making the 17th National Youth Parliament at KU a resounding success. (JKNS)
