On 28 February 2026, Presidency University successfully hosted the district-level round of the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament 2026, a flagship programme of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Organised in association with Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), formerly known as Nehru Yuva Sangha, and the National Service Scheme (NSS), the event served as a vibrant platform for democratic engagement and critical thinking.

 

The Youth Parliament brought together more than 50 students from Bengaluru Rural, Hoskote, Nelamangala, Doddaballapur, and Devanahalli. Participants engaged in a compelling discussion on the theme: “50 Years of Emergency – Lessons for Indian Democracy.” The event aimed to foster a deeper understanding of constitutional values and the role of the younger generation in nation-building.

 

The programme commenced with an inspiring inauguration by Chief Guest Das Suryawanshi, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities. His address set a profound tone for the day, emphasising inclusivity and civic responsibility in the journey towards a ‘Viksit Bharat’.

 

The success of the event was driven by the dedicated leadership of the organising committee:

• Dr Anu Sukhdev, Dean of the Student Welfare Department, who provided strategic guidance for the event’s execution

• Ms Renuka Bhagwat, NSS Programme Coordinator at Presidency University, who served as the primary in-charge and lead coordinator for the district-level proceedings

• Ms Shreeveni, Youth Officer at MY Bharat (NYK), whose collaboration was instrumental in bringing the vision of the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament to life

The participants were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges, who assessed them on criteria including content quality, clarity of thought, and time management:

• Dr Shiva Prasad, CEO, Karnataka Gandhi Smaraka Nidhi

• Dr Sumit Sonkar, Assistant Professor, School of Law, Vidya Shilp University

• Akshay G., Principal, ICIC School

• Ms Shardha Darshini, Faculty of Law, Presidency University

• Dr Harsha Eswaraiah, Faculty, L&D Department, Presidency University

Following rigorous presentations, the jury selected the top five students, who will proceed to represent their districts at the state-level Youth Parliament.

The valedictory function was graced by Commander Pradeep, a distinguished alumnus of IIT Kharagpur and a key strategist in the design of the ILMS Navy strategic system. Currently managing the KRI Trust, Commander Pradeep shared his insights on leadership and service, concluding an impactful day dedicated to empowering the next generation of Indian leaders.