MYGS Initiative: Hands-on Experience in Local Governance for Students
Context:
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Tribal Affairs, launched the Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) Initiative in New Delhi. This initiative aims to foster democratic leadership and civic engagement among students by providing practical exposure to the functioning of Gram Sabhas.
About the Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) Initiative:
1. What it is:
- The MYGS is a nationwide initiative to provide students hands-on experience in grassroots democracy.
- Students simulate real Gram Sabha proceedings, promoting civic awareness, participatory governance, and leadership skills.
2. Organisation and Support:
- Jointly launched by:
- Ministry of Panchayati Raj
- Ministry of Education (Department of School Education & Literacy)
- Ministry of Tribal Affairs
- Supported by:
- Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs)
- Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs)
- State Government Schools
3. Aims:
- To nurture democratic leadership among students through experiential and activity-based learning.
- To align with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting responsible, participative, and community-oriented citizenship.
4. Key Features:
- Implemented across 1,000+ schools nationwide.
- Integration of training modules and a dedicated MYGS digital portal.
- Encourages learning by doing, teamwork, transparency, and decision-making through mock Gram Sabha sessions.
- Plans to extend to urban areas via Model Ward Sabhas for city students.
5. Significance:
- Connects education with governance, enabling students to become active participants in democracy.
- Strengthens grassroots awareness and civic responsibility among youth.
- Prepares students with practical understanding of democratic processes, fostering future community leaders.
Conclusion:
The MYGS initiative is a transformative step in linking education with governance. By providing students practical exposure to democracy, it nurtures leadership, civic responsibility, and participatory citizenship, supporting India’s vision of informed and responsible future citizens.
Source : PIB