Model Youth Gram Sabha(MYGS):
The Centre is set to launch the Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS), a school-based initiative inspired by Model UN simulations, to provide students practical exposure to local governance and Panchayati Raj functioning.
- Model UN simulations involve hundreds of thousands of students each year, helping them learn about the UN’s principles and functions.
- MYGS is a school-based initiative that introduces the democratic process of Gram Sabhas into classrooms across India, marking the first structured effort to involve students in grassroots governance.
- It aims to develop informed and responsible citizens who understand local governance, with students discussing issues and preparing village budgets and plans.
- It is an initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with Ministries of Education and Tribal Affairs.
- It will be launched in a phased manner, beginning with Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) and Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS).
- Each participating school will receive Rs. 20,000 to conduct the mock Gram Sabha.
- Students of Classes 9–12 to role-play as sarpanch, ward members, village secretary, Anganwadi worker, ANM, junior engineers, etc.
- Teacher training provided through National Level Master Trainers (NLMTs).
- It features regional and national competitions with substantial prize money, along with certificates.
