Our youth need platforms to express positivity, creativity: Darakhshan Andrabi

Srinagar, Aug 7: Chairperson of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board and Minister of State, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, inaugurated a three-day training workshop titled “Development of Literary & Creative Skills in New Generation” at the Chinar Book Festival 2025 in Srinagar. The event was organised by the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL).

Speaking as the Chief Guest, Dr Andrabi emphasised the need to nurture the creative and literary talent of young people in the region. “Our young minds are full of positivity and creative energy. What they truly need are proper platforms to express themselves,” she said. “If we polish their capabilities and guide their potential, the outcomes will be beyond our expectations.”

Dr Andrabi lauded the organisers of the workshop — NCPUL Director Dr Shamas Iqbal and Dean of Arts at Kashmir University, Prof Aijaz Mohammad Sheikh — for taking the initiative to create space for budding writers.

Reflecting on Kashmir’s recent past, she remarked, “We’ve come out of a long spell of suppression and violence, which severely impacted the growth and expression of our youth. Initiatives like literary festivals, book fairs, and creative workshops are not just welcome — they are essential. They help young people step out of the shadows and embrace confidence, hope, and expression.”

Calling literature a powerful tool of transformation, Dr Andrabi, who is also a writer, reiterated her belief in the importance of nurturing young voices through structured support and cultural engagement.