Mandya : Students have a crucial role in strengthening democracy and must develop a deeper understanding of democratic values, constitutional principles and the rule of law, said Mandya MLA P Ravikumar.
He was speaking after inaugurating the World Senior Citizens’ Day 2026 programme at Gandhi Bhavan.
Ravikumar said elected representatives have a responsibility to address people’s concerns and provide basic infrastructure, while voters should assess their representatives based on their performance and commitment. “Democracy is strengthened not merely through voting, but through constitutional awareness, social responsibility and active participation,” he said, stressing the need for educational institutions to nurture responsible citizens alongside professionals. District Bar Association president TS Sathyananda said the Youth Parliament programme was aimed at creating awareness among students about the democratic system and the Constitution. Understanding their rights and duties would encourage young people to question social inequalities and challenges and participate actively in governance, he said. Meanwhile, Mandya DC Kumara said senior citizens should never be considered a burden on families or society, but should instead be valued as a treasure trove of experience, knowledge and wisdom that can guide younger generations. Pointing out that legal provisions exist for the care and maintenance of senior citizens, he said caring for parents is not merely a legal obligation but also a moral and human responsibility.
He was speaking after inaugurating the International Day of Democracy celebrations and the taluk-level Youth Parliament programme at the Vishwagangothri Syndicate Hall of Mandya University. Nation-building, he added, requires the collective contribution of people from all walks of life. Kumara observed that changing lifestyles and evolving family structures had, at times, resulted in elderly people being separated from their families.