The Constitution is not a mere lawyer’s document; it is a vehicle of life, and its spirit is always the spirit of the age — Dr BR Ambedkar
The 35th Youth Parliament of Apeejay School, Nerul, unfolded with a rare blend of solemnity, intellect, and youthful zeal. It wasn’t just another school event; it was a vivid reflection of how deeply the next generation understands the ideals of democracy and governance.
The installation ceremony began with an oath of affirmation by the newly elected Prime Minister, Sampanna Roy, the Opposition Leader, Pranav Anand, and all members of the House. The moment carried an air of gravitas as participants paused to pay homage to the late Chief Minister of Kerala, VS Achuthanandan, honouring his legacy of justice and integrity.
The Prime Minister then introduced the Council of Ministers, who received their badges from the President of the session. Every gesture during the ceremony reflected a deep respect for democratic traditions.
Words that stirred the spirit
Addressing the gathering, the President of the House and the school Principal, Mr P Subhash, delivered a stirring message that resonated through the auditorium. He spoke of the importance of responsibility, compassion, and knowledge among the youth, reminding everyone that a nation’s progress depends on its enlightened citizens.
The Prime Minister’s address followed, marked by energy and conviction. She spoke about the vision of a Viksit Bharat, reminding the audience that passion, not policy alone, fuels transformation. “India’s story is written by those who refused to stand still, and policy alone cannot transform anything; passion can,” she said.
The Opposition Leader’s speech that came next was equally compelling. Representing the people’s voice, he stressed that true nationalism lies in uplifting human dignity rather than mere symbolism. He declared that he stood in the Parliament on behalf of the people who dared to question and firmly stated, “Nationalism is not about raising the flags higher; it is about raising people’s dignity higher,” he stated.
Their exchanges, by journalists Deevyanjali Nirbhavane (8A), Ishika Muralimohan (8A), and Biswajeet Bhatacharya (8A), captured the very essence of parliamentary democracy — debate with decorum, disagreement with purpose.
Session II: A lesson in leadership and dialogue
The second session carried forward the same vigour and focus. It opened on an uplifting note as the Prime Minister extended warm congratulations to the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for their World Cup victory, recognising their triumph as a symbol of determination and teamwork. The Sports Minister built on this, appreciating the team’s spirit and the management’s consistent support that brought national pride.
Each participant displayed remarkable preparation, drawing upon real statistics, government policies, and current events that mirrored the atmosphere of an actual parliamentary proceeding. The Opposition Leader quickly brought the discussion to core national issues, raising concerns about the rising home loan burden, household spending, and financial equity. Ministers responded with facts and schemes, defending the government’s efforts with precision.
The Opposition’s persistence stood out throughout the session. Their sharp questions and well-argued rebuttals pushed ministers to think critically, reflecting how dissent can strengthen democratic dialogue. From the growing EMI pressure to the changing definition of poverty, students debated complex issues with remarkable maturity. The discussion revealed how deeply they understood both the numbers and the narratives behind India’s development story.
The debate then shifted to education, highlighting teacher-student ratios, low enrollment, and the implementation of initiatives such as Vajra and Diksha. Members discussed the gap between policy and awareness, and several pointed out that true progress requires collaboration between schools, parents, and government bodies.
Concerns about India’s ageing population soon followed, prompting questions on healthcare access and pension schemes. The exchange grew more data-driven as students cited national figures, explored the sustainability of welfare programmes, and reflected on the moral duty of society to care for its elderly.
Environmental issues brought a renewed intensity to the floor. Members discussed pollution, radioactive waste, and water scarcity with urgency. Their focus on sustainability and resource management revealed a clear understanding that protecting the planet is both a policy and a personal responsibility.
Trade and diplomacy took centre stage next, as students questioned India’s oil import strategy, tariff barriers, and ties with Afghanistan. The ministers defended their stand with references to global agreements and diplomatic priorities, showing how well-informed the young leaders were about world affairs.
Technology, public transport, and transparency rounded off the session with practical, solution-oriented discussions. Members identified gaps in governance, proposed digital improvements, and highlighted how feedback systems could bring greater accountability.
A reflection on the democratic spirit
As the debates drew to a close, the school Principal addressed the gathering once again, appreciating the eloquence and conviction shown by all participants. He reminded the young parliamentarians that democracy thrives not through power but through participation.
For every student who spoke, listened, or debated, Session II became more than an academic exercise. It was a firsthand experience in public reasoning, an opportunity to express conviction, challenge respectfully, and defend with logic.