In a remarkable twist of fate, the journey of 500 girls from Jammu and Kashmir, participating in the Gyanodaya Express, unfolded as an inspiring narrative of positivity and empowerment during their educational tour across the nation. Celebrated as the “college on wheels,” this transformative initiative smoothly transported 800 students from Katra in Jammu to Mumbai over a span of five days.
Guided by the visionary Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Gyanodaya Express embarked on a journey beyond borders, breaking down barriers and providing unparalleled opportunities for the young minds on board.
Contrary to initial concerns, the Royal Palms Hotel in Goregaon exceeded expectations, offering a refreshing contrast to previous experiences in Delhi and Ahmedabad. Professor Rajesh Singh, accompanying the students, noted the immaculate rooms and spotless bed sheets, ensuring a comfortable stay that surpassed their expectations.
Dinner arrangements at Royal Palms were orchestrated flawlessly, with meticulous table arrangements and uninterrupted service, creating a festive atmosphere that endured until the end. The hotel’s commitment to guest safety became evident during a brief power outage, a precautionary measure to relocate guests possibly involved in questionable activities. Far from the nightmarish scenarios described in some reports, students enjoyed a restful night’s sleep without any disturbances.
In addition to the Mumbai visit, the Gyanodaya Express extended its reach to institutions of national importance like Parliament, President House, Ashram of Mahatma Gandhi & Vinova Bhave, ISRO, IISc, and naval bases at Goa. This diversified exposure further enriched the students’ educational journey.
Adding to the positive narrative, the Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, Mr. Umesh Rai, in an unprecedented move, personally accompanied the students to oversee the arrangements of boarding and lodging. Despite these commendable efforts, some individuals attempted to cast a shadow on this uplifting narrative, which is more than unfortunate.
Beyond the stay in Mumbai, the Gyanodaya Express continued its journey as a beacon of educational empowerment. In Mumbai, students explored India’s naval strength, visiting the naval base and dockyard. Their privileged access to INS Vikrant, INS Deepak, and INS Visakhapatnam, along with exploring a submarine, provided a firsthand understanding of maritime intricacies, fostering a profound appreciation for the nation’s naval forces.
A standout moment in the journey was the visit to the usually restricted heritage hall, where students absorbed rich naval history and its glorious ethos. The Naval Base and Dockyard, safeguarding the country’s maritime interests, opened their gates to these aspiring minds, allowing them to witness operations and infrastructure contributing to national security.
Continuing the cultural sojourn, the contingent visited the historic Gateway of India in Mumbai, absorbing the city’s cultural and historical significance. This cultural immersion provided valuable context to academic pursuits, connecting theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences.
The success of the Gyanodaya Express is not just attributed to peace after abrogation but also to the collaborative efforts of educational institutions. The contingent comprised students from diverse institutions, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration.
Looking ahead, plans for another ‘Gyanodaya Express’ are in the pipeline, with the prospect of including foreign students. This forward-looking approach aligns with the broader vision of creating a global learning community where knowledge transcends geographical boundaries.
In conclusion, the Gyanodaya Express stands not merely as a train journey but as a transformative experience that transcends the confines of a classroom. The exposure to real-world applications of theoretical knowledge, interactions with naval experts, and cultural immersion collectively contribute to a holistic learning environment. The memories created during this educational odyssey will serve as guiding lights for the students as they navigate their academic and personal journeys, emphasizing the enduring impact of initiatives that prioritize education and cultural exchange.
(The writer is a Spokesperson for BJP and an alumnus of Jammu University)
