Indian democracy a model for the world, says MLA Mahesh Tenginakai

Students from various colleges taking part in the taluk-level youth parliament competition, organised to mark International Day of Democracy, in Hubballi on Saturday.

Indian democracy, founded on the Constitution drafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, is a model for the world, said Hubballi-Dharwad Central MLA Mahesh Tenginakai.

He was inaugurating a taluk-level youth parliament competition organised jointly by the taluk administration, taluk panchayat and various government departments to mark International Day of Democracy in Hubballi on Saturday.

Mr. Tenginakai said the Constitution was the foundation of the country’s democratic system. He said the Constitution guaranteed equal rights to all citizens, irrespective of caste, religion, community or gender. It also ensured that every citizen, including the most disadvantaged, had the right to vote and participate in the democratic process, he said.

Emphasising the importance of constitutional values, he called upon students to understand their fundamental rights and duties and contribute to nation-building and urged them to work towards eliminating corruption and building a corruption-free society.

Referring to India’s development prospects, Mr. Tenginakai said the country was emerging as a strong economy and expressed confidence that it would become a developed nation by 2047.

He described the youth parliament as an opportunity for students to develop leadership qualities, articulate their views and understand parliamentary proceedings.

He also said students would be given an opportunity to witness the Winter Session of the State legislature, scheduled to begin on December 2, to familiarise themselves with the functioning of legislative proceedings.

Making introductory remarks, Hubballi Urban tahsildar Mahesh Gaste said the programme was aimed at creating awareness among students about democracy, constitutional values and parliamentary procedures. It would also help develop leadership, public speaking skills, patriotism and social responsibility among young participants, he said, stressing the importance of maintaining discipline and respecting the Chair during parliamentary proceedings.

Block Education Officer H.M. Phadaneshi and assistant director of the Social Welfare Department Meenakshi Gudagi, teachers and students participated in the programme.