CUK hosts programme on Dal Lake banks

Srinagar, Sep 30: Central University of Kashmir (CUK), in collaboration with the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and supported by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), hosted a historic and captivating cultural event, ‘Viksit Bharat ke Rang, Kala ke Sang – Youth Expressions for a Developed India’ as part of Seva Parv 2025, on the tranquil banks of Dal Lake here on Tuesday.

A statement of CUK issued here said that set against the serene waters of Dal Lake, students painted their vision of ‘Akhand Bharat – Unity in Diversity’.

The event featured an art exhibition by students from CUK and the University of Kashmir (KU), who displayed their interpretations of a developed India in 2047.

The artworks celebrated connectivity and integration through symbols like the newly launched train service to the Valley, highways, the spirit of peace and resilience through education and stability, and the richness of heritage expressed in crafts, music, and Kashmir’s natural beauty.

The event, organised by the Directorate of Students Welfare (DSW) in association with the National Service Scheme (NSS), transformed Dal Lake into a stage of unity, with students, faculty from both the CUK and the University of Kashmir joining to show how Kashmir’s story of resilience and harmony reflects India’s greater journey toward progress and integration.

Vice-Chancellor, Prof A Ravinder Nath, Dean Academic Affairs, Prof Shahid Rasool, Registrar Nisar Ahmad Mir, Dean International Affairs, Prof Sandhya Tiwari, Dean DSW, Prof Irfan Aalam, faculty members, Youth Welfare Officers, scholars, and students were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Prof A Ravinder Nath underscored the importance of nurturing creativity and critical thinking among students, as envisaged in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

He stressed that the young generation carries the responsibility of shaping the India of 2047, not only through technological advancement but also through human-centered innovation.

“India is moving towards becoming a 30 trillion-dollar economy and a developed nation by 2047. The role of today’s youth is central in realizing this dream,” Prof Nath said.

He reminded students that while artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping industries, “no technology can ever replace human intelligence, sensitivity, and creativity.”

He said, “The artist’s imagination is often the seed of a scientist’s innovation, which then transforms into technology and invention. Whatever we create must be aimed at the betterment of humanity, guided by human sensitivity.”

Dean of Academic Affairs, Prof Shahid Rasool, contextualised the event within the larger vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, reminding participants of former President A P J Abdul Kalam’s dream of a developed India.

He pointed out that while economic progress and infrastructure growth are important, they must be accompanied by the well-being and happiness of citizens.

“When we talk of Developed India 2047, it is not only about skyscrapers, bridges, and advanced trains. It is about the happiness index of our people,” Prof Rasool said.

He explained that the Prime Minister’s vision for Viksit Bharat provides a concrete action plan where youth participation remains pivotal.

He congratulated students for their creativity and reminded them that national transformation requires collective responsibility.

“Viksit Bharat 2047 cannot be achieved by scientists or bureaucrats alone; it requires the participation of all citizens. You, the youth, will witness and enjoy the fruits of this dream,” he said.

In his address, Registrar Nisar Ahmad Mir highlighted the cultural and educational dimensions of Viksit Bharat ke Rang, Kala ke Sang.

He described the initiative as an opportunity for students to express their vision of India through art, thus blending cultural creativity with national development goals.

“It is a privilege to be here on the shores of Dal Lake to celebrate this important component of Seva Parv,” Mir said.

He said that the programme embodies five key objectives: youth expression, leadership through culture, national solidarity, engagement with the Prime Minister, and fostering living aspirations among the youth.

He said, “The students’ canvases, whether by artists or first-time painters, beautifully depict development, vision, and hope. This is in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s belief that the energy of youth will determine the future of our nation.”

Acknowledging the efforts of the faculty and students, Mir said, “CUK has always been committed to fostering creativity and leadership among students, and today’s event is a testimony to that spirit.”

Proposing the vote of thanks, Dean DSW, Prof Irfan Aalam, said the artworks depicted several important themes, and the gathering symbolized a confluence of academia, culture, and vision.

“It was not merely an art exhibition, but a reaffirmation of how creativity, leadership, and sensitivity must guide India’s path to development,” he said.

Firdous Ahmad Sofal of the Department of Education conducted the programme proceedings.