Bhubaneswar, Feb, 16: In September 2025, at the National Model Youth Gram Sabha Award ceremony held at Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, students from Hirli in Nabarangpur district earned national recognition.
The initiative began with a training camp organized by the Panchayati Raj and Rural Development institution. Later, a simulated Gram Sabha environment was created to give practical training. Students acted in roles such as Child Development Officer and experienced how an actual Gram Sabha functions.
Union Minister S. P. Singh Baghel attended the ceremony and presented the awards.
Eklavya Adarsha Vidyalaya secured the second position. For this achievement, the school received a cash award of Rs75 lakh along with a trophy and certificate of honor.
During the process, students performed the roles of Sarpanch, Naib Sarpanch, ward members, Panchayat Executive Officer, Gram Rozgar Sevak, ASHA worker, Anganwadi worker, and self-help group representatives, covering sectors like health, education, and women’s development.
Odisha Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik praised the winning students and said this is the foundation for building skilled citizens for a “Developed India.” Departmental Secretary Girish S. N. congratulated the participants and said the district has made the entire state proud. Panchayati Raj Institution Director Madhusmita Samal also congratulated the successful students, teachers, district administration, and institutional officials.