Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 12: Educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir marked National Youth Day with enthusiasm, commemorating the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda through academic, cultural, fitness and awareness-based activities. The programmes focused on inspiring youth to embrace ideals of nationalism, self-reliance, character building, unity and social responsibility, reflecting the timeless teachings of the great philosopher and youth icon.
Central University of Jammu, in collaboration with Swadeshi Jagran Manch, organized a “Run for Swadeshi” at Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium. Vice-Chancellor Prof Sanjeev Jain led the programme, emphasizing self-belief, self-reliance and the spirit of Swadeshi as foundations for Viksit Bharat 2047. A pledge for adopting a swadeshi lifestyle was administered, while faculty members reflected on Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy.
Shri Ranbir Campus of the Central Sanskrit University organized a series of academic and awareness-oriented activities to inspire students with the ideals of Swami Vivekananda. An elocution competition saw the participation of 21 students from different classes. A “Run for Swadeshi” was also organized to promote self-reliance and indigenous products. The programme concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where the Director of the Campus, Prof Satish Kumar Kapoor, awarded the winners.
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University organized a “Run for Swadeshi” under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof Pragati Kumar. Addressing participants, he highlighted self-confidence, discipline and responsible citizenship as key ideals of Swami Vivekananda. Over 300 students, faculty and staff participated, symbolically reflecting Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary. A collective oath in Dogri language reaffirmed commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Students of Cluster University of Jammu actively participated in celebrations held at Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, Udheywala. The programme, organized under the guidance of Dean Students Welfare Prof DS Manhas, featured patriotic songs and speeches on Swami Vivekananda’s life, teachings and contribution to spiritual awakening and national harmony. Joint Commissioner (Administration), JMC, Rajeev Khajuria attended as chief guest. Participation certificates were awarded by Swami Yajnadharananda.
Department of Students Welfare, University of Jammu, organized an expert lecture on “Spiritualizing Life and Living” at Brig Rajinder Singh Auditorium. Prof Arvind Jasrotia delivered a reflective discourse on Swami Vivekananda’s spiritual philosophy, linking ancient Vedantic wisdom with modern life. Held under the guidance of Dean Students Welfare Prof Prakash C Antahal, the event saw active participation from students, faculty and staff.
The NSS Unit of the University of Kashmir celebrated National Youth Day on the 164th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda with a day-long Run for Swadeshi/Swadeshi Sankalp Run. The event aimed to inspire youth towards self-reliance, social responsibility, and nation-building. Vice-Chancellor Prof Nilofer Khan emphasized the relevance of Vivekananda’s ideals in shaping responsible citizens. Motivational talks by Dr Javaid ul Aziz, Dr Farrukh Faheem, and youth leader Muzamil Mehmood highlighted youth’s role in civic engagement, social change and national progress.
BGSBU celebrated the day through a programme organized by its NCC Unit. Registrar Abhishek Sharma, attended as chief guest and paid tributes to Swami Vivekananda. He urged students and NCC cadets to combine knowledge with moral values to become responsible citizens and future leaders. The programme included addresses by senior faculty members and witnessed participation from officers, staff, NCC cadets and students, reinforcing the university’s commitment to character building and national service.
NIT Srinagar organized a “Run for Swadeshi” to mark the occasion, with spirited participation from PhD scholars currently on campus. The event was graced by Prof Roohie Naaz Mir, Director (In-Charge), NIT Srinagar, as the chief guest. Scholars including Adnan Rasheed Sheikh, Furqan Yaqub Khan, Sahil Yaseen, Gouhar Yousuf, Farhan Ahmad, Mudasir Shabir, Munzir and Inaam actively participated, reflecting a blend of academic commitment and civic responsibility. The run concluded with a pledge reaffirming dedication to national unity and physical well-being.
KC College of Education organized a symposium on “Role of Youth in NSS” under the leadership of Principal Dr Sanjay Tickoo. Fifteen NSS volunteers participated and shared insightful views on the role of youth in community service through the National Service Scheme. The symposium provided a platform for students to express ideas, experiences and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of volunteerism and social engagement.
Dogra Law College (Autonomous) and Dogra College of Education celebrated the day with a rich blend of academic discourse and cultural performances. The highlight was a special lecture by Dr V Nagendra Rao, Associate Professor, Political Science, University of Jammu, who motivated students towards self-discipline, leadership and positive social change. Dr Bela Thakur, Director, Dogra Group of Colleges, emphasized youth participation in national development. The programme featured speeches, poem recitations, a powerful skit on youth empowerment and classical dance performances by NSS volunteers and students.
Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission Charitable Hospital, Ambphalla, observed the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda along with its 56th Foundation Day with devotion. A Hawan was organized in the hospital premises, followed by floral tributes at the statue of Swami Vivekananda by committee members, doctors and staff. Prominent office bearers and administrative officials participated actively. Addressing the gathering, president Amar Chand Gupta highlighted Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and inspirational life. The programme concluded with prayers and a collective pledge to uphold his ideals of service and humanity.
GGM Science College observed the day with intellectual fervour through interactive academic activities. The Students Welfare and Mentoring Committee organized an offline and online quiz competition focusing on the life and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda. Principal Dr Romesh Kumar Gupta emphasized youth as change-makers of today and encouraged students to pursue scientific innovation, ethical leadership and social responsibility.
Government Degree College Thannamandi observed the day as part of the Viksit Bharat @2047 Abhiyan by organizing a symposium-cum-quiz programme under the patronage of Principal Prof (Dr) Shamim Ahmed Azad. The event was coordinated by Dr Shiraz Ahmed, Nodal Officer, Red Ribbon Club, with Dr Ashaq Malik as the Resource Person.
Shri Pandit Prem Nath Dogra Government Degree College, Samba, in collaboration with the District Administration, organized a vibrant Run for Unity March. Around 50 NCC cadets, NSS volunteers and faculty members participated with zeal. The march was flagged off by Principal Prof Dr Nirlape Kour from the college campus, passed through Samba Fort and culminated at Rani Sucheta Singh Stadium.
The NSS Unit of Government Degree College Darhal observed the occasion with enthusiasm and solemnity. Principal Prof Zamir Ahmed Mirza, along with faculty members and students, highlighted the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, emphasizing character building, self-reliance and service to humanity. The programme concluded with a renewed pledge by students and staff to follow the teachings of Swami Vivekananda.
Government Degree College Sunderbani marked the occasion by organizing a documentary screening on the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Faculty members and students actively participated and attentively watched the documentary. Addressing the gathering, Principal Dr. Vandana Verma delivered a motivational speech, urging students to follow the ideals of Swami Vivekananda to achieve personal excellence and social responsibility.
GDC Billawar organized a poster making competition on the theme “Swami Vivekananda and His Philosophy” under the guidance of Principal Prof (Dr) Alka Sharma. NSS Programme Officer Dr Sunil Kumar delivered an enlightening lecture on Swami Vivekananda’s life and ideals, emphasizing character building and mental strength. Students from various departments participated enthusiastically, presenting creative posters.
National Youth Day was celebrated at Sanjeevani Sharda Kendra, Anand Nagar, Bohri, by Sharda Institute of Computer Education with enthusiasm and inspiration. The programme began with traditional lamp lighting, followed by an address by chief guest Dr Rakesh Kumar Pandit, Assistant Professor of Physics. Students made the programme engaging and inspiring.
Swami Vivekananda Jayanti was observed at Dharmic Pustikaye, Subash Nagar, Jammu,. The event featured spiritual group songs led by Babli from Kupwara and an impressive Wushu demonstration by a young National Champion. The highlight was an inspiring lecture by Dronacharya Awardee Kuldeep Handoo, National Wushu Coach. Ravi Jogi, president ZDPC Zeethyar, attended as guest of honour, while veteran music maestro Krishan Langoo paid glowing tributes to Swami Vivekanand.
