200 students from 20 states visit Kala Kendra

Group of students from various colleges exploring the exhibition gallery during visit to Kala Kendra Jammu on Wednesday.
Group of students from various colleges exploring the exhibition gallery during visit to Kala Kendra Jammu on Wednesday.

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 8: As part of the ongoing National Integration Camp (NIC) 2025, two hundred students from Women’s Degree Colleges across 20 states of India visited Kala Kendra in Jammu today. The event, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Higher Education Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, is being held from January 3 to 9, 2025, under the theme “Women Empowerment and Emancipation” symbolizing “Nari Shakti”.
The visit was graced by a distinguished presidium of academicians and art enthusiasts, including Prof. Masrofa Qadir, Dr. Javaid Rahi (Secretary, Kala Kendra Society), Dr. Anuradha Chowdhary, Dr. Ritu Manghiya, Dr. Liaqat Jafri and Dr. Anupam. Dr. Javaid Rahi welcomed the faculty and students, highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s rich artistic heritage. He spoke about the significant contributions of the region’s visual artists to modern Indian art and emphasized its vibrant folk traditions, tribal culture, and indigenous art forms.
During the visit, the students explored all eight galleries of Kala Kendra, viewing an impressive exhibition featuring paintings, sculptures, and over 200 artifacts that reflect the artistic diversity and cultural wealth of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Liaqat Jafri addressed the students, describing the National Integration Camp as a flagship initiative of the National Service Scheme (NSS), which promotes national unity, social harmony, and inclusivity among Indian youth. He also highlighted the participation of 200 NSS volunteers, 25 Program Officers, and 18 contingents from various states, showcasing India’s cultural diversity.