Pratapgarh launches multi-stage debate competition with 1,427 gram panchayats participating

The district administration of Pratapgarh has intensified preparations for the Ajgara Mahan Samvad-2026, also known as "The Great Ajgara Debate," with District Magistrate Abhishek Pandey issuing comprehensive guidelines to ensure a transparent and inclusive competition. In a meeting held at the camp office auditorium with Block Development Officers, executive officers of municipalities and town councils, and other relevant officials, the DM emphasized the importance of timely preparations and maximum public participation in this unique debate initiative.

The competition will unfold in multiple stages starting from August 24 to 26, when participants will be selected at the gram panchayat and ward levels. One participant from each of the 1,427 gram panchayats and wards across the district will be mandatorily chosen, forming the first phase of the selection process. Subsequently, on August 29 and 30, competitions will be held at the level of 17 development blocks and 19 urban bodies, narrowing the field to 36 winners. The selection process will continue with four zonal debates on September 2 and 3, producing 16 finalists, followed by a district-level debate on September 5 that will identify the final eight participants. These eight finalists will undergo public introduction and preparation from September 6 to 16, culminating in a grand finale on September 17.

District Magistrate Pandey stressed that participant selection should not be merely a formality but must be based on logical ability, knowledge, critical thinking, and communication skills. He directed officials to provide genuine opportunities to those who can present their arguments effectively and persuasively. The DM also instructed that appropriate venues should be selected at gram panchayat and ward levels based on convenience.

Emphasizing transparency, Pandey mandated that the jury panel must be completely impartial and beyond suspicion, with special attention to fairness in selecting judges. He ordered mandatory videography and photography at every event to maintain an independent and unbiased record of participants and activities. Officials were also directed to ensure complete documentation of the entire event and collect feedback forms from participants. Notably, the competition has no educational qualification requirements or age restrictions, allowing people from all sections of society to participate by submitting applications in the prescribed format available at block offices, municipal corporations, or town council offices.