Jammu, December 13: Thirty talented artists from Jammu and Kashmir have been selected to participate in the 28th National Youth Festival 2024-25. The event, focused on empowering youth through skills, knowledge, and confidence, was highlighted by Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez, during the closing ceremony of the Inter-Division UT Level Competition.
Speaking at the event, Sarmad Hafeez emphasized the exceptional talent of J&K’s youth and the importance of nurturing their abilities through quality education, moral values, and ethical standards.
He stressed the need to channel their energy positively, guiding them toward a healthy lifestyle and away from drug abuse and social evils. The Secretary praised the participants, their parents, teachers, and trainers for contributing to the event’s success. He noted that representing J&K at the upcoming National Youth Festival in New Delhi on January 11-12, 2025, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, would be a significant achievement for the selected participants.
He further added that such events not only help youth avoid societal issues but also encourage cultural exchange, foster friendships, and offer opportunities to learn new languages. Earlier, Deputy Director of Youth Services and Sports Central, Jitendra Mishra, welcomed the attendees and highlighted the day’s importance.
He stated that the festival aims to discover and nurture young talent while providing a platform for sharing ideas toward a developed India (Viksit Bharat). The selected artists, who showcased outstanding performances, include 10 participants each in Folk Song and Folk Dance categories, along with representatives in Painting, Poetry, Thematic Art, Story Writing, and Declamation.
Key officials present at the event included Director General of Youth Services and Sports, Rajinder Singh Tara, Joint Director Ved Prakash, and a panel of expert adjudicators.
