Itanagar: In a state often overlooked in national discourse, hundreds of students gathered this week to debate, listen, and imagine a better future—showcasing a spirit of civic engagement that is both urgent and inspiring.
The second edition of the Arunachal Youth Parliament (AYP) concluded Friday evening at the D K Auditorium Hall inside the state’s Legislative Assembly complex, wrapping up two days of spirited debate, impassioned speeches, and a celebration of democratic engagement among the youth of Arunachal Pradesh.
The standout performers were from Don Bosco College, Jollang, which clinched the top institutional honor — Best Institution — alongside a trophy, a cash award, and a citation. Jarbom Gamlin Government Law College (JGGLC), Jote, finished as runner-up, but one of its students, Ganko Miso, emerged as a symbol of the event’s promise, sweeping both Best Speaker and Most Promising Youth Leader awards.
“This platform reaffirms our faith in the youth and their capacity to be change-makers,” said Pema Norbu Thongchi, officer on special duty to the minister of education, addressing the valedictory function as chief guest. “You are not just the future — you are the present, and programs like these give you the mic.”
Thongchi urged participants to tackle “hot and burning” issues with both criticism and solutions, casting them as “positive agents of change” in a state navigating rapid development and growing political complexity.
Amar Sangno, president of the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists and guest of honor, challenged students to look beyond conventional careers in the public sector, advocating instead for entrepreneurship and innovation in areas traditionally underserved by local talent.
“Unemployment is not just a problem — it’s a call to action,” Sangno said, encouraging youth to resist social media-driven narratives and deepen their engagement with facts. “Our young people must think, question, and build.”
Over 300 delegates and nearly 900 online registrants participated in this year’s AYP, themed “Youths Ignited, State United.”
Hosted by the Hills Society in collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs, the event was designed to simulate a working parliamentary session while giving students a stage to speak to real-world issues — from the drug crisis to student politics, from skill development to cultural preservation.
The Student Parliament’s Section 2B, held on Day Two, was a highlight. Topics ranged from the impact of social media (Himalayan University’s Roni Sorum) to youth engagement in governance (Rajiv Gandhi Government Polytechnic’s Egam Bam). Others tackled climate change, tribal identity, and corruption — though two participating colleges were notably absent.
The awards ceremony reflected the energy and talent that defined the event. Vanshika Marwaha from the National Institute of Technology earned the title of First Runner-Up Speaker, while Don Bosco College’s Sumnya Wangsu and Kangkinam Taggu shared the Second Runner-Up position.
Doli Ori of Dera Natung Government College was named Best Debater, and Anya Sari, also from Don Bosco, received the Best Rebuttal Speaker award.
The Special Jury Awards celebrated emerging voices, with Egam Basar and Bake Olo Tagar from Rajiv Gandhi Government Polytechnic College recognized as Upcoming Youth Leaders. Krishtina Ete and Vindha Sindhu of NERIST were honored for presenting the Best Innovative Idea.
Himalayan University, Jollang, received recognition for Best Attendance, and Alisha Gollo of Dera Natung Government College was awarded a consolation prize.
In his address, AYP chairman Dodum Natung thanked Youth Affairs secretary Abu Tayeng for pledging funds for a third edition and promised a broader, more inclusive event in the future.
“We’ll plan meticulously to avoid scheduling conflicts,” he said, referring to the absence of some colleges due to academic exams.
AYP convenor Dr Prem Taba summed up the proceedings with pride, calling the event a “festival of thought.” The jury — composed of research scholars and professors from Rajiv Gandhi University and Himalayan University — commended the level of debate and the seriousness of intent displayed by the youth.
As the curtains fell, there was little doubt that Arunachal Pradesh’s young citizens had found their voice — and they plan to keep using it.
Also read: Arunachal Police’s War on Drugs: 2,619 arrested, ₹75 cr worth narcotics seized
