Excelsior Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Mar 12 : In a move to foster national integration and cultural exchange, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh hosted 50 students and representatives of the Students Experience in Regional Understanding (SERU) program from the Ladakh region at his residence in the capital today.
The initiative, organized by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), aims to provide students an opportunity to explore diverse cultures and educational avenues beyond their homeland.
The visiting delegation comprised 20 students from various parts of Ladakh, including Nubra, Kargil, Leh, Lamayuru, Shang, Nyoma, and Zanskar, who are currently on an exposure tour named “RashtriyaEkatmata Yatra.” The program takes students beyond their native regions to interact with their counterparts across the country, promoting regional understanding and national unity.
During the interaction, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and cultural integration. “Ladakh holds immense strategic and cultural significance for India. Initiatives like SERU contribute to strengthening national bonds and preparing our young minds for a bright future. Exposure to different regions and academic institutions will help these students develop a broader perspective and enhance their aspirations,” he said.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted several schemes, including the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, which offers skill training, modern tools, and financial support to artisans and traditional craftsmen. He encouraged youth from Kashmir to explore opportunities in their region’s rich heritage industries, such as Pashmina weaving and wood carving, to secure sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized that the scheme not only enhances skill sets but also ensures economic stability by providing financial incentives and employment prospects.
He also spoke about the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which enables aspiring entrepreneurs to obtain collateral-free loans of up to Rs 20 lakh, removing financial barriers that often discourage young people from starting businesses. He urged the attendees to take proactive steps in utilizing such schemes to launch their own ventures and contribute to economic development.
Furthermore, Dr. Jitendra Singh stressed the importance of Svamitva, a scheme aimed at providing land ownership rights to individuals, which could be instrumental in resolving property disputes and securing financial backing for business initiatives. He encouraged the youth to spread awareness about these programs within their communities so that more people could benefit. He also commended the technological advancements in Kashmir’s apple industry, where modern interventions have doubled apple production and improved shelf life, allowing farmers to expand their markets beyond the region. He urged young minds to embrace such technological innovations and drive progress in their respective fields.
The students, many of whom were travelling outside Ladakh for the first time, expressed enthusiasm about their experiences in Delhi and other States. Their itinerary includes visits to educational institutions, historical landmarks, and cultural centers in Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu. The selection process for the program prioritizes students who have never had the opportunity to explore regions beyond Ladakh, ensuring maximum exposure and learning.
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