The programme was inaugurated by Erode District Collector S. Kandasamy, IAS, in the presence of Erode West MLA K.K. Anand Mohan.
Addressing the participants, the District Collector said that such model Parliament programmes help young people gain a deeper understanding of the fundamental principles of democracy while offering practical exposure to parliamentary procedures and legislative processes. He noted that the initiative also provides an ideal platform for students to express their views constructively and develop leadership, debating skills, a sense of responsibility, and social awareness.
The Collector advised students to cultivate the habit of reading books that guide them in life, in addition to their academic textbooks. He emphasised that regardless of the profession they choose, young people should read the Thirukkural, which teaches values, responsible living, social harmony, and goal-setting, as well as books that explain the principles of democracy and the Indian Constitution.
He further stressed that everyone should understand the Indian Constitution, including the fundamental rights and duties it guarantees, the powers and responsibilities of the Union and State governments, and the constitutional framework for addressing public issues. He encouraged students to actively participate in such programmes to enhance their knowledge and achieve success in life.
A total of 168 students selected from 17 government, government-aided, private, matriculation, and CBSE schools across Erode district are participating in the event. During the two-day programme, they will take part in simulated parliamentary sessions as Members of Parliament.
A dedicated mobile application was also introduced to digitally manage the model Parliament proceedings. The app facilitates attendance tracking, session management, automated speaking-time monitoring, and overall conduct of the proceedings, enabling students to experience a Parliament session in a realistic and technology-enabled environment.
Earlier, a special pledge emphasising democratic values, respect for the Constitution, civic responsibility, and the role of youth in nation-building was administered under the leadership of the District Collector. Students participating as model parliamentarians, officials, and other attendees took the pledge.
The event was attended by CII Tamil Nadu Coordinator U.R.C. Devarajan, CII Chairman R.R. Sathiyamoorthy, Young Indians Parliament (Erode) Chairman Om Saravana, students, and other dignitaries.