“Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: 50,000 Children Living the Constitution in Rajasthan”

In the heart of Rajasthan’s Dholpur district, something extraordinary is happening. Over 50,000 children are no longer just learning about democracy they are living it every day. Thanks to the visionary leadership of IAS officer Avahad Nivrutti Somnath, classrooms have become arenas of debate, abandoned buildings have blossomed into libraries, and the ideals of the Indian Constitution have transformed from text on a page to vibrant, everyday practice.

Democracy Starts in the Classroom
At Government Upper Primary School in Katelapura village, students eagerly line up at polling booths not for class monitors, but for their Bal Sansad, a children’s parliament. “Earlier, we only read about democracy in books. Now we practice it,” smiles teacher Darshana Devi. Children take on real responsibilities: the child health minister monitors hygiene, the education minister organizes learning activities, and debates echo the core principles of justice, equality, and fraternity.

Breathing Life into the Preamble

For decades, the Preamble of the Indian Constitution was just the first page of textbooks. Today, it is a living guide. Students reflect on its values, discuss secularism and fraternity, and connect lofty ideals to daily life. “Children who once hesitated to speak now lead debates and confidently express their ideas,” shares Darshana.

Reviving Forgotten Spaces: Libraries for the People

Nivrutti’s vision extends beyond classrooms. Dilapidated buildings and abandoned panchayat halls have been converted into vibrant community libraries. Supported by SBI Card CSR funds and government resources, these spaces feature digital infrastructure, solar power, curated books, and safe learning environments, especially for girls. Constitution Clubs meet here, and students preparing for competitive exams find a hub of knowledge and inspiration. Villagers now proudly call these spaces “hamari library” our library.

The Five ‘Sa’ Framework: Learning by Doing

Nivrutti’s approach is guided by five principles:

• Soch (Spark Curiosity) – Ignite interest through assemblies and community engagement.
• Samajh (Reflect) – Deepen understanding via classroom discussions and library reading circles.
• Sankalp (Commit) – Encourage pledges to participate in local governance.
• Sakriya (Act and Share) – Hands-on activities like Bal Sansads, debates, and library-led initiatives.
• Samavist (Embed) – Integrate these practices into school calendars, local governance, and library SOPs for sustainability.

Inspiring Change, One Child at a Time
Shaurya, a fifth-grader, explains: “Social justice means not discriminating against anyone. Political justice means everyone can vote wisely.” For him, the Bal Sansad is real democracy in action. Across villages, shy children now speak confidently, girls reclaim education, and communities embrace collective decision-making.