Y Kikheto Sema and others with participants of State Level Youth Parliamentary Quiz Competition 2026 in Kohima on May 1.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 1
Mon district today emerged as the winner of the State Level Youth Parliamentary Quiz Competition 2026, held at ATI Imagine Hall, Kohima under the aegis of the Parliamentary Affairs Department, Government of Nagaland. Kohima District and Tuensang District stood 2nd and 3rd position respectively. Three students each from nine districts (Zunheboto, Dimapur, Wokha, Tuensang, Mon, Chümoukedima, Peren, Kohima and Kiphire) joined the competition.
‘Knowledge of Constitution essential for every citizen’
Earlier, gracing the opening session as the special guest, Y Kikheto Sema, Principal Secretary, Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Fisheries & Aquatic Resources and Parliamentary Affairs Department, Government of Nagaland, said that it was the desire of the state government for creating a platform that moves beyond traditional academics and dives into the heart of how the nation functions—the Legislative Assembly and the Parliament.
Stating that knowledge of Constitution, the legislative process and rights and duties is not meant for political science students alone, he said, “It is essential for every citizen.”
He said that quiz on Indian parliament sharpens young minds on the nuances of governance, lawmaking and parliamentary debate.
He described today’s students as future representatives, policymakers and guardians of our democracy. “Democracy is not a spectator sport; it thrives on participation. When you learn about the Assembly, the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha, the Question Hour, or the process of passing a bill, you are learning about the very mechanisms that ensure the voice of the people is heard,” the Principal Secretary said.
‘Debating is not about shouting’
Stating that debating is not about shouting, Kikheto said, “It is about presenting ideas logically, listening to others, and reaching a consensus.”
He asserted that democracy is a fundamental right and also a collective responsibility, requiring active participation rather than passive existence. “The knowledge you have gained about the structure of Indian democracy will serve you a lifetime,” he told the students.
He was optimistic that the participants will feel inspired to become informed citizens who will strengthen the parliamentary democracy. “This quiz is more than a competition; it is a rehearsal for your future roles as responsible leaders. Every fact you recall today is a brick in the foundation of a society that remains free and fair,” Kikheto said. “May the spirit of democracy thrive in your minds,” he added.
Dr Evothung Ezung, Associate Professor, Kohima College and State Coordinator for Youth Parliament & Youth Parliamentary Quiz Competition said that the youth parliamentary quiz competition provides an important platform for promoting awareness and understanding of parliamentary practices among students. Dr Ezung said that the event is not merely a test of knowledge but also a celebration of curiosity, critical thinking and teamwork.
The resource persons of the event included; Dr Eunice Alinger, Associate Professor, Kohima College and Zeneinuo Solo, (Retd) Associate Professor & HoD, Department of Political Science, Kohima College.
The event was chaired by Mewelo Kepfoh, Section Officer, Parliamentary Affairs Department while vote of thanks was proposed by Anungla Aier, Deputy Secretary, Parliamentary Affairs Department.
