The three-day youth capacity building training program was organized from 19th to 21st January 2024, by Social Inclusion & Democracy Unit of Indian Social Institute Bengaluru, in collaboration with KGF Catholic Union, Andersonpet, Champion KGF. Young & energetic 30 youth actively participated (21 Boys & 09 Girls) for a comprehensive knowledge on understanding the Constitution’s 73rd and 74th Amendment Acts. Which mandates the reservation of one-third of seats for women in Panchayati Raj institutions and offices of the chairperson at all levels of Panchayati Raj institutions and in urban local bodies respectively. Especially the 74th Amendment Act of 1992 provides a basic framework of decentralisation of powers and authorities to the Municipal bodies at different levels. 

Ms. Eshwari. A, said “I got benefited from this program, in many ways which includes, social skills, Leadership skills, knowledge about Panchayat raj system, Municipal bodies and being a responsible citizen of India. I had observed few issues in my community that, the full amount of pension is not handed over to the beneficiaries by the postmen. Around 10% of amount is withheld by them without any reasons, I am gonna question that to them and if the action is not taken, I will be approaching the higher officials for justice. Along with my colleagues, I am going to give petition to the municipal council regarding the inquiry of reading room & library facilities in our locality. My team wanted to know about the Ward Sabha meeting schedules, we are going to seek this information from the panchayat, so that we would be able to take part actively in the Ward Sabha meetings and put forth our plans to develop our wards”.

Mr. Shakti. N, responded, “I have improved in many areas, by this capacity building camp by overcoming my stage fear, building my self-confidence, to express my thoughts to solve various difficulties faced by me and my villagers. As early as possible I will be writing to panchayat office to compulsorily lay the Cement Road, instead of Thar Road, because these roads are beside the lake.  I will also be demanding for Library facilities because we want become IAS, KAS & Defense Officers”.

As I was listening to all these impactful plans of the KGF Youth, I am inspired to see the transformation taking place in them.  

Mr. Manjunath M

Facilitator, Karnataka State

Social Inclusion and Democracy Unit