In a significant achievement for Odisha’s tribal education sector, students of the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS), Mahasingi in Kandhamal district, have qualified for the zonal round of the National Youth Parliament Competition and will represent the state at the Zone-III event in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.
The school earned the distinction after emerging as the regional champion among Odisha’s four Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs), securing a place in the prestigious zonal-level competition to be held at EMRS Ozili.
The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) has introduced the National Youth Parliament Competition for Eklavya Model Residential Schools for the first time, with the objective of nurturing democratic values and leadership skills among tribal students. The competition is being conducted in three phases—regional, zonal and national—and features participation from 36 selected EMRSs across the country.
Officials said the initiative aims to enhance constitutional awareness, parliamentary knowledge and civic engagement among students while encouraging informed participation in democratic processes.
A 64-member contingent from EMRS Mahasingi, comprising 58 students and six teachers, will represent Odisha at the zonal competition. Participants will engage in simulated parliamentary proceedings, showcasing their debating skills, critical thinking abilities and understanding of legislative processes.
According to school authorities, the Youth Parliament programme offers students a unique platform to develop communication, leadership and decision-making skills while deliberating on issues of public importance.
The accomplishment has brought recognition to EMRS Mahasingi and highlights the growing academic and extracurricular achievements of students from Odisha’s tribal residential schools. The school community has expressed confidence that the team will deliver a strong performance in the zonal round and earn a place in the national finals.