UDHAMPUR: The two-day Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue Cultural Track, organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports Udhampur, concluded here today with enthusiastic participation of around 297 young artists. The event was organised in connection with Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, celebrating national unity, cultural diversity and the creative potential of youth.

In the inaugural ceremony, Deputy Commissioner Ananth Dwivedi, was the chief guest, while District Information Officer   Neeraj Bhargav attended as the guest of honour. On the occasion, the government departments established stalls to showcase their flagship schemes, initiatives and public welfare programmes. The Deputy Commissioner inspected the stalls and interacted with the representatives, enquiring about the implementation and outreach of various departmental schemes.

Earlier, the District Youth Services and Sports Officer highlighted the significance of the Cultural Track as an important platform for identifying, nurturing and showcasing the creative talent of young people. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated the Department's efforts in providing an inclusive platform for youth to showcase their artistic abilities.

He observed that cultural initiatives of this nature go beyond artistic expression, as they help foster confidence, leadership qualities, teamwork and a sense of belonging among young people. He emphasised the need to preserve the region's rich cultural heritage while encouraging innovation and contemporary forms of creative expression. He also urged the youth to channel their energy, ideas and capabilities towards nation-building and actively contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

The concluding-day ceremony was attended by Chief Executive Officer Municipal Council Saddam Hussain, who interacted with the participants and highlighted the importance of scientific solid waste management, responsible waste disposal and active public participation in maintaining urban cleanliness.

He urged the young participants to become ambassadors of cleanliness and environmental responsibility, motivating the community to adopt sustainable waste management practices and collectively contribute towards making Udhampur a cleaner, greener and more sustainable city. The two-day event provided a vibrant platform for young artists to showcase their creativity, celebrate India's rich cultural diversity and strengthen the spirit of unity, participation and nation-building.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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