Program: Youth Voices for Strengthening Grassroot Democracy
Module: Module VI – Participation and Accountability
Location: Youth Training Center – Villupuram, Tamil Nadu
Dates: 6 – 8 January 2026
Partner Organizations: Women Education and Economic Development (WEED) Trust, Ever Green Charitable Trust, Aruvee Trust, Rural Youth Educational Trust (RYET)
Resource Person: Mr. Arul Prakash and Mr. Gandhi
Youth Participants: 38 (Male – 15, Female – 23)
A three-day training program was held in the Villupuram Zone of Tamil Nadu, organized by the Indian Social Institute-Bengaluru, as part of a Capacity Building Training for Rural Youth on the theme “Participation and Accountability.” This impactful workshop strengthened the 38 young grass root leaders in Democracy and Particiaption.
A participant Mrs. Viji shared “Through this training, I clearly understood the different schemes implemented by the Panchayat for SC, ST, and OBC communities in Tamil Nadu. Earlier, I knew that schemes existed, but I did not know who was eligible or how to access them. The sessions helped me learn about housing schemes, education scholarships, livelihood support, sanitation benefits, and welfare pensions meant especially for marginalized communities”.
The training was facilitated by Mr. Arul Pakash and Mr. Gandhi, who shared their rich field experiences in local governance. They explained the Panchayat Raj system in Tamil Nadu, highlighting that Panchayat is a people’s institution with space for citizen participation and accountability. They emphasized on Gram Sabha participation, transparency, and active citizenship.
Overall, the three-day training strengthened the youth’s understanding of participation and accountability in Panchayat Raj. It empowered them with knowledge, confidence, and a sense of responsibility to engage actively in Gram Sabha and local governance processes. The program marked an important step in nurturing informed and responsible youth leaders committed to strengthening grassroots democracy in Tamil Nadu.
Premkumar D
Facilitator, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
Social Inclusion and Democracy Unit