Srinagar, July 7: In a major achievement for Jammu & Kashmir, the University of Kashmir has secured the first position at the national level in the 17th National Youth Parliament Competition 2024–25 for Universities and Colleges, organised by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. The winning team was felicitated at a prize distribution ceremony held at the Parliament House Complex on Tuesday.
The prestigious Atal Bihari Vajpayee Running Parliamentary Shield and Trophy was presented to the University of Kashmir team by Arjun Ram Meghwal during the function held at the GMC Balayogi Auditorium.
As part of the ceremony, the students from the University of Kashmir presented a repeat performance of their award-winning Youth Parliament sitting, showcasing their understanding of parliamentary procedures and democratic functioning.
Welcoming the participants, Secretary, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Nikunja Bihari Dhal said 51 universities and colleges from across the country participated in this year’s competition. He said the ministry aims to expand participation in future editions so that more students benefit from the Youth Parliament Programme.
Representing the University of Kashmir, Pervez Ahmed described the national recognition as a proud moment for the institution and Jammu & Kashmir. He thanked the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs for providing a platform that strengthens democratic and constitutional values among young people while helping students build confidence, leadership skills and public speaking abilities.
Congratulating the participants, Meghwal praised the students for their impressive demonstration of parliamentary procedures and described them as the country’s future leaders. Referring to the message of former President A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, he urged the students to dream big, convert their aspirations into goals and pursue them with determination. He also administered the LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) pledge to all attendees.
Seven institutions were also recognised as group-level winners: DAV College, Jadavpur University, Shivaji University, Central University of Punjab, SSMRV College, Chanakya National Law University and Kurukshetra University.
The Youth Parliament Competition for Universities and Colleges has been organised by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs for nearly three decades to familiarise students with parliamentary practices, encourage informed debate and foster democratic values, leadership and effective communication among the youth.
