Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS)
Context:
The Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) which is also termed Loktantra Ki Pathshala is an innovative civic education initiative.
It was conceptualised by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in partnership with the Department of School Education and Literacy and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Highlights of the Initiative
The initiative targets students in Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) and Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs)
It provides students with hands-on experience in grassroots democracy through simulated assemblies.
Students engage in role-play, debates, and decision-making exercises, taking on roles like Sarpanch, Ward Members, and Panchayat functionaries
The initiative is strongly aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes instilling constitutional values, social responsibility, and civic consciousness in students
MYGS Module:The implementation is guided by a comprehensive Model Youth Gram Sabha Module which includes
A National Level Master Trainer (NLMT) Guide
A Facilitation of Training Module for Teachers
An Evaluation Framework
One-time financial assistance of Rs. 20,000 per school is provided for conducting each mock Gram Sabha
Key Objectives
To introduce students to the three-tier Panchayati Raj framework established by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment
To motivate students to engage in Gram Sabhas and local governance processes
To foster leadership skills and a sense of responsibility among youth to strengthen local institutions
To provide a platform for students to discuss and analyze real-life governance challenges at the grassroots level
To develop essential life skills (such as communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and consensus-building).