Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 25: The University of Jammu is going to organize the third edition of its flagship multi-genre youth festival, Goonj 2026.
The two-day festival will be organized on 27th and 28th February 2026, bringing together students, faculty and teaching departments on a shared platform of creativity, collaboration and institutional pride.
This was informed by Prof Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor JU in a press conference held here today.
The VC was flanked by Dean Research Studies Prof Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Planning and Development, Prof Sangita Gupta, Registrar Dr Neeraj Sharma, Director, Centre for Distance and Online Education Prof Pankaj K Srivastava and Dean Students Welfare Prof Prakash C Antahal.
Addressing the media, Prof Rai reflected on the journey of Goonj since its inception in 2024.
He stated that the initiative was conceived with a clear vision, to promote holistic development of students and to build a deeper sense of belongingness within the University community.
“Platforms like Goonj enable students to discover their potential through participation, interaction and collective engagement,” he said.
Prof Rai informed that around 600 students from Teaching Departments, Offsite Campuses, Affiliated Colleges and neighboring Universities have registered for participation this year and the number is expected to increase further.
“The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir UT and Chancellor of the University will inaugurate Goonj 2026, while the Valedictory Function will be graced by Prof Bechan Lal, former Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University and Advisor to the Governor of Assam, as chief guest,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Dean Research Studies Prof Neelu Rohmetra highlighted that Goonj provides a unique opportunity for showcasing the distinct identity and strengths of the University’s 42 disciplines.
“Through exhibition stalls, departments will present their academic mandates, research initiatives, training activities, publications and innovative practices. The competitive format encourages healthy academic spirit and mutual learning among departments,” she added.
Prof Pankaj K Srivastava, informed that Goonj 2026 comprises three major segments, Sports, Cultural Activities and the Best Practices Showcase. Under the Best Practices component, departments will be evaluated in two stages by a six-member jury from different organizations.
Prof Prakash C Antahal informed that this year a new component, an Exhibition of Rare and Best-Selling Books, has been introduced to promote reading habits among students.
Among others present on the occasion included Prof Monika Chadha, Chairperson Campus Cultural Committee, Prof Sarika Manhas, Co-Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee, Prof Garima Gupta, Prof Dushyant Rai and Prof Pankaj.
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