The 14th Tribal Youth Exchange Programme, sponsored by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs concluded today with a plantation drive organised by Nehru Yuva Kendra Jammu.
The closing ceremony was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner Jammu, Romesh Chander, as the chief guest and DDC Member Phallaina Mandal, Geeta Aulakh as the guest of honour.
During the ceremony, the ADDCs spoke about the opportunities provided by the Tribal Youth Exchange Programme for tribal youth to learn about the rich culture and traditions of Jammu.
He also mentioned the government’s focus on promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship. State Director Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Nisar Ahmed Butt highlighted the various activities undertaken during the seven-day event, including awareness sessions, cultural events, speech contests and educational tours.
President of Tawi Welfare Society, Kavi Raj spoke about the work of Tawi Welfare Society in improving the social and economic status of local communities. District Youth Officer Rajouri-Poonch, Nitin Hangloo motivated the tribal youth to take their experiences from the programme as a long-lasting memory and act as ambassadors for their region.
He also encouraged them to pursue self-employment and entrepreneurship. A plantation drive and cleanliness drive were also held as part of the closing ceremony. Cultural performances were presented by participants from different states who shared their experiences from the seven-day youth exchange programme.
The programme was attended by 220 tribal youth including escorting staff from paramilitary forces. At the end of the ceremony, all participants received certificates of participation and a group photograph as a souvenir.
The proceedings were successfully conducted by Samriti Salathia. Among others, General Secretary, Yashpal Mangotra was also present at the occasion.