Srinagar, Dec 16: The Grand Finale of Toycathon 2024 Exhibition transformed the SCERT-JK Divisional Office, Kashmir, into a vibrant hub of creativity and cultural pride. The event was a celebration of young minds blending tradition with innovation, showcasing the exceptional talents of students from across the Kashmir division.
Toycathon 2024 saw overwhelming participation, with 1,12,657 students registering across Jammu and Kashmir, including 61,501 registrations from the Kashmir division. Students competed in three categories: 37,390 in Category 1 (Classes 6th to 8th), 18,671 in Category 2 (Classes 9th to 10th), and 5,440 in Category 3 (Classes 11th to 12th). A remarkable 4,675 schools in the Kashmir division conducted School Level Competitions (SLC), followed by District Level Competitions (DLC) hosted by DIETs, culminating in today’s Grand Finale with 90 top students presenting their innovative toy prototypes.
The event was conducted under the guidance of Ms. Sakeena Masood (Itoo), Hon’ble Minister of Education,JKUT and Shri Suresh Kumar Gupta, IFS, Principal Secretary, School Education Department, J&K, reflecting their commitment to promoting innovation and excellence among students across the Union Territory.
Prof. (Dr.) Parikshat Singh Manhas, Director SCERT J&K, addressed the audience virtually, stating,“Toycathon 2024 is not just a competition but a bridge connecting our glorious past with an electrifying future. The indigenous toy prototypes showcased today reflect the spirit of innovation and cultural storytelling.” He praised the students for their exemplary display of indigenous toys and guided them to be resilient as this was the beginning of their career as young innovators.
The jury, comprising Controllers from the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM), Kolkata, and two distinguished judges from Kashmir, evaluated the projects for their technical merit and ability to integrate Kashmiri heritage with modern innovation.
Roshan Lal, Joint Director, SCERT-KD, commended the students for their exceptional creativity, remarking,“These young innovators have crafted more than toys—they’ve built dreams and showcased the brilliance of Kashmiri youth. Their work reflects resilience, imagination, and critical thinking, which will shape a brighter future.” He also expressed gratitude to the dedicated coordinating team, including Dr. Zahoor Ahmad, Mr. M. Sultan Khan, Mr. Mohd Lateef Rather, Ms. Saima Aijaz, and Farooq Ahmad Najar, for their tireless efforts in ensuring the event’s seamless execution.
The Grand Finale was held in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and NIPAM (National Innovation Foundation – India), bringing national expertise and resources to this impactful initiative.
With the successful completion of the Kashmir division’s Grand Finale, the spotlight now shifts to Jammu, where 90 more young innovators will showcase their brilliance on December 19, 2024.
