YSS Finalises J&K Contingent for Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme

Jammu, July 18: The Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Jammu and Kashmir, has finalised its contingent for the upcoming Inter-State Youth Exchange Programme (YEP), set to take place in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from July 22. The announcement was made during an inaugural ceremony held at the Police Auditorium, Gulshan Ground, where the Inter-Divisional Youth Exchange Programme was officially launched.As per a statement issued here, the event was presided over by Anuradha Gupta, Director General, YSS, who described such initiatives as instrumental in nurturing holistic growth and fostering national integration, cultural understanding, and youth empowerment.  “Participants in this programme are not just representatives of Jammu and Kashmir, but true ambassadors of its rich cultural heritage,” said Anuradha Gupta, addressing a hall filled with enthusiastic youth and departmental officials.She emphasised that the Youth Exchange Programme is more than a travel opportunity—it’s a transformative journey that builds lifelong bonds and encourages openness to new ideas, traditions, and values. She assured the audience that YSS is committed to expanding such programmes to ensure wider participation and exposure. The occasion was graced by Joint Directors Dr Vinakshi Koul (Jammu) and Mohammad Rashid Kohili (Kashmir) as guests of honour. Also present were Deputy Directors Jitender Mishra (Central) and Megha Bogia (Planning), Accounts Officer Sunil Kotwal, and District YSS Officer Sukhdev Raj Sharma. In her welcome address, Joint Director Jammu highlighted the department’s ongoing efforts in promoting cultural integration and skill development. Meanwhile, Joint Director Kashmir delivered the vote of thanks, praising the DG’s vision and dedication. The event featured vibrant cultural performances from both Jammu and Kashmir divisions. In the folk song category, teams from Kathua and Budgam earned praise for their soulful renditions, while Doda and Budgam took top honours in folk dance.In the declamation contest, young voices like Avishi Gupta, Simran and Muntaho, along with other articulate girls from both divisions, left the audience and judges impressed with their eloquence and confidence. The proceedings were smoothly conducted by Mohammad Yousuf Dar, a renowned anchor and physical educationist, known for his engaging and professional anchoring style.