Dehradun – A vibrant display of intellect and oratory marked the Dr. R.S. Tolia State-Level Right to Information (RTI) Debate Competition, hosted at Doon University by the Uttarakhand Information Commission. In a closely fought contest, Doon University and Law College (Uttaranchal University) jointly claimed the first prize, earning the championship trophy together.
The competition brought together 58 students from 29 universities and postgraduate colleges across Uttarakhand. Participants debated on the merits and challenges of the RTI Act, showcasing strong arguments and research-based perspectives. The event featured students from prestigious institutions such as GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumaon University, Swami Ram Himalayan University, Graphic Era University, SGRR College, and government postgraduate colleges of Pithoragarh, Khatima, Kotabagh, Uttarkashi, Pauri, Rishikesh, and Nainital.
Winners across categories reflected the depth of talent. Arnav Tripathi from DSB Campus, Nainital, bagged the Best Speaker award for his compelling performance. The second prize was awarded to Rekha Panwar of Government PG College, New Tehri, while Swati from Siddhartha Law College secured third place. Doon University’s Shivya stood out for her impactful arguments, winning the Outstanding Performance award.
Chief Information Commissioner Radha Raturi lauded the participants for their enthusiasm and intellectual engagement, highlighting the RTI Act as a vital tool for promoting transparency and citizen empowerment. She said that informed citizens form the backbone of democracy, and competitions like these play a significant role in nurturing awareness and accountability.
Vice Chancellor of Doon University, Prof. Surekha Dangwal, emphasized that debate competitions sharpen critical thinking skills and strengthen democratic values among young students. She noted that platforms like these not only encourage academic excellence but also inspire youth to contribute meaningfully to society.
The panel of judges included senior advocates and academics such as Ajay Jugran, Reena Tiwari, and Dr. Kanchan Negi, who praised the quality of arguments and the level of preparation displayed by the students.
The event was smoothly managed by Doon University’s Vatsalya Club, under the guidance of Dean Dr. Chetna Pokhariyal and Associate Professor Dr. Aditi. Organizers expressed gratitude for their leadership in making the competition a grand success.
According to the Uttarakhand Information Commission, the main objective of the competition is to enhance awareness about the Right to Information Act among students and the wider community. The Commission has already organized over 40 such debate competitions across universities and colleges in the state as part of its outreach initiative.
The closing ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Chief Information Commissioner Radha Raturi, State Information Commissioners Yogesh Bhatt, Dalip Singh Kunwar, Kushla Nand, and Devendra Kumar Arya. Doon University Vice Chancellor Prof. Surekha Dangwal, Commission Secretary Raza Abbas, and Deputy Secretary Yukta Mishra also attended the event, underscoring the importance of youth engagement in strengthening transparency and governance.
