JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, in collaboration with the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR) Chennai, warmly welcomed participants of Yuva Sangam Phase-V at the Mandapam Auditorium of IIM Jammu on 10th December 2024. This program, a pivotal initiative under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat campaign by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, seeks to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding among youth from diverse regions of the country.
The event was presided over by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, who extended a heartfelt welcome to the 40 participants from Chennai, including 20 male and 20 female students, accompanied by 2 faculty members from NITTTR Chennai. The delegates were introduced to the inspiring journey of IIM Jammu through an engaging campus audiovisual presentation.
The welcome session commenced with a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony, signifying the start of a vibrant journey designed to offer participants a holistic experience of Jammu's rich culture, traditions, progress, and its people.A comprehensive overview of the meticulously planned five-day itinerary was presented, highlighting key themes such as Tourism (Paryatan), Traditions (Parampara), Development (Pragati), People-to-People Connect (Paraspar Sampark), and Technology (Prodyogiki).Present on the occasion were Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, Dr. V. Rajkumar, Chairperson, Student Affairs, Dr. Ashish Kumar, Nodal Officer, Yuva Sangam 2024, Dr. Apurva, Co-Chairperson, Student Affairs, IIM Jammu, Dr. Sudarshan, faculty, NITTTR Chennai and Dr. Jacqueline Divya Mary, faculty, NITTTR Chennai.
Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu highlighted IIM Jammu's unwavering commitment to fostering unity, cultural understanding, and national integration through initiatives like Yuva Sangam. He commended Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for spearheading this transformative program. He emphasized that the Yuva Sangam program perfectly embodies the essence of the. “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” initiative, which aims to strengthen cultural harmony and mutual respect among India’s diverse regions.He emphasized the importance of such programs in shaping young leaders by providing them with a firsthand understanding of the country’s cultural richness, historical significance, and developmental achievements.
He highlighted the perfect gender balance in the delegation and encouraged participants to explore Jammu's food, hospitality, and culture while engaging with IIM Jammu’s vibrant community. Reflecting on the program's objective of fostering meaningful connections, he appreciated the reciprocal cultural exchange, with students from Jammu & Kashmir visiting Tamil Nadu.
Prof. Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu, emphasized the importance of cultural amalgamation and the unique design of the program, which provides participants with invaluable learning experiences. He encouraged the delegates to enjoy every moment of this journey, which fosters a greater understanding of India’s diversity and unity.
Dr. V. Rajkumar, Chairperson, Student Affairs, IIM Jammu, provided an overview of the Yuva Sangam program and its objectives, emphasizing the transfer of cultural knowledge and the promotion of national unity. He highlighted the itinerary and encouraged participants to take away valuable learnings from this enriching experience.
Dr. Sudarshan Kumar, faculty, NITTTR Chennai, expressed gratitude to Govt of India, Ministry of Education, Director, IIM Jammu for his support, noting that this initiative offers a unique opportunity for participants to gain insights and create lifelong memories. Dr. Jacqueline Divya Mary, faculty, NITTTR Chennai extended her appreciation to the Government of India and the Ministry of Education and IIM Jammu for their efforts in organizing such a meaningful program. She also shared details about the comprehensive itinerary designed to showcase the cultural and historical essence of Jammu & Kashmir.
The opening session emphasized the institute's commitment to facilitating enriching cultural interactions, underlined by its robust infrastructure and active engagement with national initiatives.The program will include cultural exploration with visits to iconic landmarks such as Raghunath Temple, Amar Mahal Palace Museum, and Suchetgarh Border, offering participants valuable insights into Jammu’s rich heritage. Development and engineering marvels will be highlighted through visits to the Salal Hydroelectric Project and the world’s highest railway bridge, the Chenab Rail Bridge, showcasing the region's strides in technological advancements. Cultural exchange will be promoted through interactive programs at institutions like Jammu University and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), fostering people-to-people connections.
Additionally, a plantation drive at IIM Jammu is also planned on the last day which will emphasize the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness.The first day included a visit to Raghunath Temple and Raghunath Bazaar, where participants immersed themselves in the vibrant local culture, followed by a dinner at Annapurna, the IIM Jammu dining facility.A group photograph marked the momentous occasion, capturing the spirit of unity and collaboration. The event concluded with the National Anthem, reinforcing the essence of national integration and pride that underpins the Yuva Sangam initiative.
IIM Jammu remains committed to fostering national integration and holistic development through initiatives like Yuva Sangam, aligning with its vision of creating socially responsible leaders for the nation. The event was coordinated by Student Affairs office, IIM Jammu.
