Jammu, Feb 5: Commissioner Secretary, Culture, K Ramesh Kumar, Wednesday reviewed the functioning of Kala Kendra, emphasising the need to enhance its operations in line with its aims and objectives. He assured that all possible resources are being utilized to make Kala Kendra a centre of excellence in promoting cultural heritage.
Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL), Harvinder Kour, Special Secretaries of Culture Department, Trishla Kumari Kundal and Malikzada Sheeraz Ahmed , Secretary, Kala Kendra Society, Dr. Javaid Rahi, Deputy Director, Archives, Archaeology, and Museums, Dr. Sangeeta Sharma, and other senior officials were present in the meeting.
While deliberating on the initiatives required for further development, K Ramesh Kumar directed the concerned officers to focus on landscaping, renovation, and repairs of various sections of the building to enhance its aesthetic and functional value. The Commissioner Secretary was briefed on the various activities and programs being conducted by Kala Kendra for the promotion and preservation of art and culture in the region. He also inspected different galleries of the institution and appreciated the dedication of the staff and artists in showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the importance of preserving traditional art forms for future generations.
The Commissioner Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening cultural institutions and ensuring that Kala Kendra and JKAACL continue to serve as platforms for nurturing and promoting artistic excellence in the Union Territory.
Earlier, Dr. Javaid Rahi, Secretary, Kala Kendra Society, provided an overview of the institution’s functioning, highlighting its significant role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Jammu region. He informed that Kala Kendra Society has organized 37 exhibitions and workshops in 2024, including national and international-level events. Meanwhile, the Commissioner Secretary also reviewed the functioning of JKAACL at the Writers Club, Jammu. During the meeting, he was apprised that the Academy has conducted 196 major events in 2024, with the participation of over 7000 writers and artists and an audience of lakhs of people. Additionally, the Academy has recently introduced 31 new schemes aimed at promoting art, culture, and languages.
