Mega dams, drugs & land rights take centre stage at Arunachal youth parliament

It was democracy in its most dynamic form as the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly played host to a spirited Youth Parliament session on Saturday. 

A mock assembly, comprising 60 student participants from Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) and affiliated colleges, transformed into a robust chamber of debate and discussion—complete with a mock Chief Minister, Speaker, Ministers, and Opposition leaders.

Organised as part of the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, the event aimed to give young minds a hands-on experience of democratic functioning. 

The central theme — “Debating Development, Environment and Sustainability” — saw passionate arguments unfold over key issues such as tribal land rights, the socio-environmental impacts of mega dams, and the rising menace of drug abuse in the state.

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MLA Tojir Kadu (Nari-Koyu) and Assembly Secretary Tadar Meena graced the occasion, encouraging participants to embrace civic engagement. The jury panel featured academic stalwarts including Dr. Topi Basar (Department of Law, RGU), Dr. David Gao (Political Science, RGU), and Dr. Gumjum Haider, former State Information Commissioner.

Dr. Zilpha A Modi, Assistant Professor of Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies (AITS), coordinated the program, which not only witnessed parliamentary procedures in action but also gave space to ideas and concerns rarely echoed in mainstream platforms.

Speaking to India Today, Dr. Gumjum Haider remarked, “The students here are conducting themselves in an exemplary manner, demonstrating legislative behaviour that is, in some cases, better than what we see in the assemblies. If given the opportunity, they can emerge as some of the finest leaders of tomorrow.”

From questioning policy decisions to presenting alternative visions for Arunachal Pradesh's development, the mock legislators exhibited a nuanced understanding of governance and constitutional values—proving that the future of democracy in the region is in safe, informed hands.