GANDHINAGAR, GUJARAT | 22nd AUGUST 2026 | The Western Region Round of Young Indians Parliament (YiP) 2026 began today at the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha in Gandhinagar, bringing together more than 160 students from Grades 9–12. The two-day programme has brought together students from Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh who emerged as winners in their respective city-level rounds.
Having competed and made their way through the city rounds, the students are now getting an opportunity to participate at the regional level. The sessions are based on the Indian parliamentary system, giving students a chance to experience parliamentary debates, put forward their views, ask questions and understand how different perspectives come together during a discussion.
The first day was filled with enthusiastic participation. Students spoke about ongoing issues and matters affecting society, shared their thoughts and listened to different viewpoints. The discussions gave them an opportunity to look at issues from different perspectives and express their opinions in a structured and respectful manner.
For the students, being at the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha added another dimension to the experience. Sitting in a legislative setting helped them connect what they have learned in the classroom about democracy and Parliament with a more practical experience.
Speaking about YiP, Darshan Parikh, Chairperson, Young Indians Ahmedabad, said that the initiative gives students a platform to express themselves and understand democracy by actually experiencing it. He added that when young people get the opportunity to question, discuss and debate, they become more confident and aware of their role in society.
Bijal Desai, Co-Chairperson, Young Indians Ahmedabad, said that YiP is not only about competition or winning. “The real value is in what students learn along the way. Listening to others, putting forward your own thoughts and understanding different perspectives are experiences that help shape young leaders,” she said.
Arushi Trivedi, Chairperson, Young Indians Parliament (YiP), said, “It is encouraging to see students come forward with so much confidence and curiosity. YiP gives them a space to speak, listen and learn from one another. These conversations help them realise that their opinions matter and that they too can contribute to the society around them.”
The first day concluded with students looking forward to another round of debates and discussions. The programme will continue tomorrow, August 23, with the second and final day of the Western Region Round.
Speak. Debate. Persuade. Inspire.
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