Young voices shine at KU’s National Youth Parliament Group Level Competition

Srinagar, June 05: To provide students with a first-hand experience of the functioning and proceedings of a democratic parliamentary setup, the Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Parliament House, GoI, New Delhi organized the group level competition of the 17th National Youth Parliament Competition at the main campus Thursday.
The competition featured two student groups from the University—one as the Treasury Bench and the other as the Opposition—engaging in sessions like Oath or Affirmation, Obituary Reference, Introduction of New Ministers, Question Hour, Breach of Privilege, Papers to be laid on the Table, Message from the Upper Chamber of Youth Parliament, Calling Attention Motion, Legislative Business, Bills for Consideration, and a Welcome to Foreign Delegates, closely mirroring the actual conduct of parliamentary business.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan said, “It is truly encouraging to witness our students simulate real parliamentary proceedings with such conviction and clarity. This initiative not only strengthens democratic awareness but also nurtures leadership and critical thinking among youth.” Former Member of Parliament and sitting MLA of the Legislative Assembly of the J&K UT, Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi while appreciating the participants’ performance, said, “The students demonstrated remarkable understanding of parliamentary procedures and debates. Their articulation, confidence, and grasp of democratic values are truly commendable.”
Registrar KU, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, in his remarks, praised the efforts of the student participants, adding that such competitions promote a spirit of civic responsibility, teamwork, and governance literacy. The performances were evaluated by a panel comprising of Justice (Retd.) Hasnain Masoodi, Prof. S M Afzal Qadri, former Dean Students’ Welfare KU and former Dean & Head, School of Law KU, and Prof. Rajat Roy, Group Coordinator, 17th NYPC, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
The judges expressed deep appreciation for the students’ performances, remarking that the participants showed impressive confidence, articulation, and understanding of parliamentary procedures, and are well-positioned to win at the national level. Earlier, in his welcome address, Dean Students Welfare KU, Prof. Pervez Ahmed highlighted the educational and democratic value of the event and emphasized how such platforms provide students with a unique opportunity to understand the functioning of parliamentary democracy and develop leadership qualities. The event proceedings were conducted by the Cultural Officer, DSW KU, Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, while Prof. Pervez Ahmed also delivered the formal vote of thanks.