Students showcase talent through folk dance, music, poetry, painting and nukkad natak; drug-free india theme takes centre stage
KATHUA, Oct 30: The Department of Youth Services and Sports, District Kathua, organised Inter-Zone District-Level Cultural Track Events under the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue (VBYLD) 2026 at the Auditorium Hall of Government Degree College (GDC), Kathua, on Friday.
Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Kathua, Surinder Mohan Sharma, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Principal GDC Kathua, Dr. Manohar Lal, was the Guest of Honour.
The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, following which the Chief Guest formally inaugurated the cultural events.
Students representing different zones of District Kathua participated enthusiastically in various competitions, including Group Folk Song, Group Folk Dance, Nukkad Natak, Poetry and Painting, showcasing their creativity, artistic abilities and innovative ideas.
The theme for this year’s event was “Nasha Mukt Abhiyan for Viksit Bharat”, aimed at spreading awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse and encouraging young people to contribute towards building a healthy, progressive and drug-free India.
In the competition results, Zone Barnoti secured first position in Group Folk Dance, Group Folk Song, Nukkad Natak and Poetry, while Zone Kathua secured second position in all four categories. In Painting, Zone Kathua bagged first position, followed by Zone Barnoti in second place.
The event provided a valuable platform for young participants to express their artistic talents and convey socially relevant messages through cultural performances. It also highlighted the significant role of youth in spreading awareness against substance abuse and contributing towards the vision of a developed India.
The programme concluded on a positive note, celebrating the creativity, enthusiasm and cultural spirit of the participating students.