In News:

• The Government of India has launched the Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS), a first-of-its-kind national initiative aimed at strengthening Janbhagidari (people’s participation) and promoting grassroots democratic engagement among school students.
• The programme is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the Ministry of Education (Department of School Education & Literacy), and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

Aim & Significance

• To inculcate democratic values, civic responsibility, and leadership skills among youth.
• To familiarise students with Gram Sabha processes, village-level planning and budgeting.
• To nurture future citizen-leaders aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
• Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises experiential learning and civic participation.

What is Model Youth Gram Sabha?

• A simulated Gram Sabha forum conducted in schools.
• Modelled on the concept of Model United Nations (MUN) but adapted to the Panchayati Raj system.
• Provides hands-on exposure to local self-governance, decision-making and village-level institutions.

Coverage & Implementation

• To be implemented in 1,000+ schools across India, including:
  • Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs)
  • Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs)
  • State Government Schools
• Schools will conduct mock Gram Sabha sessions as guided by the training module.
• Financial support of ?20,000 per school will be provided by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to conduct the sessions.
• Launch event includes participation from 650+ delegates, including students, teachers, PRI representatives and officials.

Key Features

• Student Participation: Students from Classes 9–12 enact roles such as:
  • Sarpanch
  • Ward Members
  • Village Secretary
  • Anganwadi Worker
  • Other village-level functionaries
• Simulation Activities:
  • Conducting mock Gram Sabha meetings
  • Discussions on local issues and development needs
  • Preparation of a village budget and development plan
  • Exposure to decentralized planning, accountability and community engagement
• Digital Support Tools:
  • MYGS Portal for resources, learning materials and reporting
  • Training Module for teachers to facilitate sessions effectively