JAMMU, Feb 27: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday inspired a large gathering of students, faculty, and dignitaries at the University of Jammu, declaring that the youth possess “boundless power” to steer society and the nation toward a brighter future. Speaking at the grand inaugural ceremony of the two-day ‘Goonj 2026’ youth festival, he laid out a compelling vision for young minds to blend intellectual depth, creative energy, and rooted traditions in driving sustainable national development.
The event, hosted by the University of Jammu, promises a vibrant platform for students from diverse fields to showcase talents, foster innovation, and build connections. It aims to educate minds, energize bodies, and spark groundbreaking ideas, aligning perfectly with India’s broader goals of progress.
“Empowered youth engineers the future,” Sinha asserted. “I firmly believe intellectual depth, creative strength, and innovative youth leadership are essential for our national advancement.” He emphasized the need for dedicated efforts in shaping balanced minds and bold innovators who can tackle tomorrow’s challenges head-on.
Drawing from his experience, the LG exhorted students to kindle the “flame of courage” within themselves. “When young people step forward with unshakeable belief, new pathways open for society and the nation,” he said. He encouraged them to embrace innovation relentlessly—pursue fresh research, experiment boldly, and unlock doors to nation-building.
At the same time, Sinha stressed staying connected to cultural roots. “Honor your traditions, respect your past, and connect with your heritage. This will deepen your sense of identity, confidence, and self-awareness that no classroom can fully teach,” he remarked poignantly.
On education’s true purpose, he elaborated: “It’s not just about acquiring knowledge, but creating enlightened citizens sensitive to their duties. True education equips youth to forge entirely new answers and solutions the world hasn’t yet imagined.” He painted a vivid picture: “Students don’t enter campuses merely for degrees—they come to nurture culture, explore ideas, choose bold paths, and courageously drive societal progress.”
Addressing the rapid pace of global change, Sinha highlighted how technological explosions are transforming education and industries alike. He directed faculty to evolve higher education campuses into “manufacturing hubs of new ideas.” “Efforts must go beyond the curriculum,” he urged. “Foster genuine dialogue across disciplines. Let every lecture become a doorway to new possibilities.”
In a special moment, the Lieutenant Governor launched the “JU Vaachan” podcast, an initiative by the Department of Journalism and Media Studies. This platform is set to amplify student voices and promote thoughtful discourse on contemporary issues.
The ceremony drew a distinguished crowd, including Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean of Research Studies; and Prof. Prakash Anthal, Dean of Students Welfare. Heads of departments, senior faculty, officials, and hundreds of enthusiastic students filled the venue.
Adding prestige were Padma Shri awardees Dr. Jitendra Udhampuri, Dr. SP Varma, and Romalo Ram; former DGP Ashok Bhan; and prominent citizens from various fields. The event kicked off with the traditional lamp-lighting, setting an energetic tone for the festival ahead.
Sinha’s address resonated deeply, reinforcing the youth’s pivotal role in J&K’s and India’s journey toward self-reliance and global stature.
