Program: Conscientize Youth on Indian Constitution
Module: Module II – Democracy and Citizenship
Place: Loyola Vikas Kendra, Hangal Karnataka
Dates: October 8th, 9th & 10th 2024
Partner Organization: Loyola Vikas Kendra, Roshni Trust, Young Vision & Akkamahadevi Mahila Mandala
Resource Persons: Mr. Shivanand Chakrasali (Mob: 9448826131), Sr. Veronica (Mob: 9740632079) & Mr. Ramachandra (Mob: 7738929388)
Youth Participants: 41 (Male 24 & Female 17)
A special program was conducted to educate rural youth on topics such as Democracy, Citizenship, The Constitution of India, Fundamental Rights and Duties, and the Right to Information (RTI). The goal was to empower young people from rural areas with knowledge of how the political and governance system works and how they can actively participate. The sessions were designed to make these concepts relatable and accessible, showing the youth how understanding their rights and responsibilities can improve their lives and their communities.
Resource Person Sr. Veronica mentored, Indian democracy is a system of governance where citizens exercise their power through free and fair elections. It is rooted in principles of equality, freedom, and justice, providing a platform for every citizen to voice their views and contribute to the nation’s development. The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the country, outlining the structure of government, fundamental rights, and duties of citizens. Youth understood that Indian democracy allows all citizens to actively participate in governance through elections, valuing equality, freedom, and justice. They also grasped that the Constitution is the guiding law that defines government structure and secures their rights and responsibilities.
A key part of the capacity building of youth, was dedicated to the Right to Information (RTI) Act, a powerful tool that enables citizens to access government information. This law is especially significant for rural communities, where transparency in governance is essential for ensuring that development schemes and resources reach the intended beneficiaries.
During the group discussion youth Rakshitha. S. Yadav spoke “I have gained good learning and experiences; through organization I will put in to practice of all my trainings”. Mohan Ashok Harijan expressed “Personally I got transformed, in this democratic country there is no need to fear any big personalities, I will question him/her for any injustice practices”
As a facilitator, I was carefully going through, all the evaluation sheets of post training, youth felt happy about the new learnings & enlightenment on democracy, fundamental rights / duties & RTI. Young minds had also expressed that they got courage to come on stage & speak confidently, understanding the importance of developing their leadership qualities. They became aware of social evils like Communal Riots, Dalit Atrocities, Gender Inequality, and Child Labor. They also want to bring awareness among people through drama or art form. Young youth are looking forward to participate more in the future training programs and bring transformation in themselves and in their communities.
Mr. Manjunath M
Facilitator, Karnataka State
Social Inclusion and Democracy