Anantnag, Aug 25: The enchanting landscapes of Kashmir became the backdrop for a group of young leaders hailing from nine different countries as they embarked on a journey of cultural exploration under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Gen Next Democracy Network Programme.
The 11th batch of foreign delegates had the opportunity to interact with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha before immersing themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of Betab Valley and Chandanwari in Pahalgam and Dal Lake.
The ‘Gen Next Democracy Network’ initiative, organised by ICCR, seeks to bridge cultures and expand horizons. Young individuals from diverse democratic nations converge in India to acquaint themselves with the nation’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and the intricate workings of its democratic framework. ICCR, renowned for its role in fostering global cultural exchanges, takes charge of this exceptional undertaking.
A total of 19 delegates representing nine democracies were treated to the natural splendours of Betab Valley and Chandanwari in the heart of Pahalgam. These locations, nestled within the scenic Anantnag district, approximately 90 kilometers away from Srinagar, embody the picturesque beauty of Jammu & Kashmir.
Sharing their experience on Twitter, ICCR noted, “19 delegates from 9 democracies explored Betab Valley & Chandanwari in Pahalgam. Situated in the Anantnag district, about 90km away from Srinagar. Pahalgam is a beautiful hill station in Jammu And Kashmir.”
Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, the President of ICCR, shared a captivating video on social media that showcased the delegates gracefully swaying to the tunes of Kashmiri music. “This is what is Connecting Through Culture! Young foreign delegates of ICCR’s Gen Next Democracy Network programme — some of them MPs — couldn’t resist the temptation of shaking their legs with dancers at a function at Sher-a-Kashmir Agri University, Srinagar in Jammu-Kashmir.”
Earlier, the foreign delegates sailed in the boats in the Dal Lake in Srinagar. “Sailing across the serene Dal Lake in ornate Shikaras! The delegates visited the magnificent lake where they rode in J&K’s renowned and charming boats – Shikaras,” the ICCR said.
During their visit, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha engaged with the young leaders coming from Ireland, Namibia, the USA, Iceland, Luxembourg, Italy, Denmark, Albania, and Moldova at Raj Bhavan.
