Katra, March 7: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) Friday hosted its three-day Annual University Festival, ‘Ekatva 2025’, organised by the Board of Professional Activities (BPA). The festival featured a diverse array of departmental events, an international conference, and an exhibition, attracting participants from institutions across the country.
The grand inaugural session was held at the Matrika Auditorium, graced by Prof. Pragati Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of SMVDU, along with esteemed dignitaries from India and abroad, faculty members, and students. The festival was officially launched with the unveiling of the detailed event brochure.
In his welcome address, Dr Ankush Raina, President of the Board of Professional Activities, underscored the importance of innovation and sustainability in addressing global challenges. He highlighted SMVDU’s dedication to fostering creativity and collaboration through platforms like Ekatva. The festival, sponsored by SMVD Narayana Hospital, was meticulously coordinated by faculty members Dr Sakshi Arora, Dr Rakesh Kumar, Dr Mir Irfan Ul Haq, Dr Rashi Taggar, and Dr Rahul Sharma, alongside a team of student organisers: Ramnik, Ashatabhuja, Rishav, Chakshu, Muskan, Avi, Dhiraj, Samragyee, Shatakshi, Anketa and Abhishek. Throughout the three days, a range of technical and recreational activities were held for participants from various colleges and universities. The festival culminated in a valedictory function, presided over by Vice-Chancellor Prof Pragati Kumar and other distinguished guests, including Dr Anil Bhardwaj (Head, SOECE), Dr Yathesth Anand (Head, SME), and Prof Ankush Anand (SME).
Several accolades were presented to recognise excellence in different categories. Best paper awards were conferred for outstanding research contributions. Best School awards were also conferred to School of Electronics and Communication, first place, School of Architecture and Landscape Design second place and School of Economics, third place.
Dr Ankush Raina commended the dedication of student volunteers, whose efforts ensured the festival’s grand success. Dr Mir Irfan Ul Haq (Associate Professor, SME) delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for the support extended by Ajay Kumar Sharma (JKAS), Registrar SMVDU, and Neeraj Gupta (JKAS), Finance Officer. Adding to the cultural vibrancy of the event, the festival also featured a cultural performance by students of IIM Jammu and an enthralling Sufi music recital by a team from the JK Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages
