‘Will ensure environment debate in every session’

Nagpur: Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar on Sunday said he would ensure that at least one dedicated discussion on environmental issues is held in every Assembly session, stressing that climate change and ecological degradation demand structured legislative attention.Addressing delegates at the 4th National Environment Youth Parliament jointly organised by Vikasarth Vidyarthi and Paryavaran Sanrakshan Gatividhi at Vidhan Bhavan here, Narwekar noted that environmental concerns already occupy a significant portion of Assembly proceedings. "In every session, nearly 24% to 30% of discussions revolve around drought, erratic rainfall, and losses arising from environmental crises. However, the core issue behind many of these challenges is climate change," he said, adding that while such matters are discussed in parts, a focused and definite debate on the environment would help address root causes more effectively.Narwekar described the youth parliament as a unique initiative, pointing out that while mock parliaments are organised by many institutions, holding one exclusively on theme of environment is distinctive. "Environment is not restricted to any state or country; it is a concern for the entire globe. When it comes to framing laws and policies, the appropriate forum for such deliberations is the legislature, where issues are discussed, and decisions are taken through due democratic process," he said.He said he spent time listening to the student participants and appreciated the quality of deliberations. Stating that such platforms strengthen parliamentary democracy, Narwekar added that he would invite MLAs to attend similar youth sessions in the future. "It will be beneficial for legislators to witness these discussions and see your discipline," he said.Urging students to become responsible citizens, Narwekar said forums like the Youth Parliament help participants understand how parliamentary democracy functions. He expressed confidence that such engagement would help strengthen democratic institutions and support India's vision of emerging as a fully developed nation by 2047. Padma Shri Janardanpanth Bothe, who was present as the guest of honour, also urged participants to contribute towards nature conservation with commitment and service.Among those present were Ashutosh Madavi, national VP of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad; Rahul Gaur, national head of Vikasarth Vidyarthi; Payal Rai, all-India coordinator of Vikasarth Vidyarthi; and Dr Vijay Khandal, chairperson of the Student Development Department, along with other dignitaries. Certificates were distributed to all delegates, and select presentations were felicitated before programme concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.