Kashmiri Youth Exchange Program Concludes at MIET, 132 Participants from 6 Districts Engage in Cultural and Developmental Activities

Meerut: The six-day residential Kashmiri Youth Exchange Program, organized under the theme "Vatan Ko Jano" (Know Your Nation), concluded at Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology (MIET). The event, jointly organized by Nehru Yuva Kendra Meerut,  Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and  Ministry of Home Affairs Govt of India saw the participation of 132 Kashmiri youths, including 120 young men and women and 12 team leaders from six districts of Kashmir.

The closing ceremony was graced by Dr. Rajkumar Sangwan, Member of Parliament from Baghpat, who emphasized the importance of national unity and integrity. In his address, Dr. Sangwan highlighted Kashmir's integral role in India's cultural and geographical fabric, urging the youth to contribute actively to the nation's progress. He drew parallels between the freedom struggle and the need for contemporary unity, stating, "Just as people from all communities fought together for India's independence, we must continue to uphold that spirit of togetherness."

The program featured a variety of cultural and competitive activities, including dance, singing, and sports. In the dance category, Srinagar secured the first position in the women's segment, followed by Kupwara and Budgam. Singing competitions saw Julfikar from Srinagar and Tajamul Basir from Anantnag clinching top spots. Budgam emerged victorious in the sports category, while Anantnag led in the food festival. Participants also shared their experiences of the six-day program, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to connect with Meerut's culture and people.

The event concluded with the distribution of certificates and mementos to coordinators and participants from each district. Notable contributions were made by coordinators such as Najakat and Naseem from Kupwara, Toshida Akhtar and Irshad Ahmed Wani from Anantnag, and Samsoor Rahman and Shakeer Yusuf from Baramulla. The program underscored the importance of youth engagement in fostering national unity and cultural exchange.