SRINAGAR: Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) 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 Tuesday.

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 CUKashmir and the University of Kashmir, 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 CUKashmir and 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, Dr. 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. Ravinder Nath remarked. He reminded students that while artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping industries, “no technology can ever replace human intelligence, sensitivity, and creativity.” He observed, “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 Academic Affairs, Prof. Shahid Rasool, contextualized the event within the larger vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, reminding participants of former President Dr. 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 wellbeing 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. Shahid Rasool stated. He explained that the Hon’ble 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 affirmed.

In his address, Registrar, Dr. 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,” Dr. Mir said.

He noted 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 elaborated, “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, Dr. Mir said “CUKashmir has always been committed to fostering creativity and leadership among students, and today’s event is a testimony to that spirit,” he added.

Proposing the vote of thanks, Dean DSW, Prof. 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 added. Sr. Asst Prof. Department of Education, Firdous Ahmad Sofal conducted the programme proceedings.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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