Venue: Delhi Public School, Nashik

Location: Village Manori, Dindori Rd, behind Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik, Maharashtra 422004

Central Agenda:

Topic: "In a rapidly developing nation like India, can the government ensure basic amenities and security for all citizens, particularly in the context of increasing incidents of violence and lack of service guarantees? How can the youth be instrumental in driving solutions and holding the government accountable?"

Background Information: India is a country experiencing significant growth and development, yet it continues to face challenges in ensuring that all its citizens have access to basic amenities such as clean water, electricity, healthcare, basic infrastructure and education. Additionally, incidents of violence, including heinous crimes like rape and murder, highlight the gaps in law enforcement and the justice system. These issues raise concerns about the government's ability to provide security and essential services to every citizen, especially in a nation as vast and diverse as India.

Key Points for Consideration:

1. Basic Amenities and Government Responsibility:

   • Basic amenities like water, electricity, sanitation, basic infrastructure and healthcare are fundamental rights that every citizen should have access to. The government's role is to ensure these services are available, especially to the most vulnerable populations. However, there are often disparities in access, with rural areas and underprivileged communities suffering the most.
   • Students should consider the effectiveness of current government policies in addressing these disparities. Are existing schemes sufficient, or is there a need for new strategies?

2. Security and Law Enforcement:

   • Recent incidents of violence, including gender-based violence, have brought into question the efficacy of law enforcement agencies and the justice system. Ensuring safety is a crucial responsibility of the state, but lapses in this area can lead to a loss of public trust.
   • The debate could explore the reasons behind these lapses, such as inadequate policing, judicial delays, or societal factors that perpetuate violence. What reforms could be implemented to strengthen the system?

3. Role of the Youth:

   • Youth make up a significant portion of India’s population and possess the energy, creativity, and passion necessary to drive change. The topic encourages students to think about how they, as young citizens, can contribute to solving these issues.
   • Students could discuss the potential of youth-led initiatives, such as community service projects, awareness campaigns, or advocacy groups, to improve access to basic services and enhance security.
   • The debate should also cover how youth can hold the government accountable. This might involve engaging in political processes, using social media to raise awareness, or participating in civic movements that push for transparency and effective governance.

4. Accountability Mechanisms:

   • Effective governance requires accountability. How can the government be held accountable for failing to provide essential services or for lapses in security? What mechanisms currently exist, and how can they be improved?
   • Students might consider the role of the judiciary, media, civil society, and public activism in maintaining checks and balances on the government.