Former Union Minister Daggubati Purandeswari, serving as the Chief Guest at the Young Indians Parliament (YIP) 2026 valedictory session, urged students to reduce gadget dependency and embrace independent reading.

Addressing 183 delegates, she emphasised that while technology provides opportunity, books remain essential for fostering analytical and compassionate leadership.

Sharing insights from her parliamentary career, Purandeswari lauded the simulation’s high-quality deliberations on governance. She engaged in a lively Q&A session, addressing concerns regarding cybersecurity and ethical digital citizenship. Demonstrating her commitment to sustainability, she endorsed the “Saree to Sanchi” initiative, donating a personal garment for upcycling into eco-friendly marathon kit bags by local self-help groups.

The event concluded with the presentation of awards to outstanding participants, including Best Parliamentarian Sreevenkata Aniketh.

Purandeswari encouraged the youth to remain active in public life, reminding them that informed, responsible citizens form the bedrock of a vibrant democracy.