IIM Jammu observes Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, pays tribute to the victims and survivors of partition

JAMMU: The Indian Institute of Management Jammu observed Partition Horrors Remembrance Day 2026 with a solemn and thought-provoking programme dedicated to remembering the suffering, sacrifices and resilience of millions affected by the Partition of India. The event was presided over by Prof. (Dr) Brigadier (Retd.) Neeraj Soni, Chairperson, Student Affairs in presence of Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson Anandam, and Prof. Pranab Ranjan Das, Chairperson, Small Business Development Units, Prof. Ravij Seth, Professor of Practice, IIM Jammu. The event was also graced by faculty, officers, staff and students at the Institute.

Prof. Shyam Narayan Lal, Chairperson, Anandam, IIM Jammu, delivered a deeply moving address on the human tragedy and enduring legacy of Partition. Through literary references, poignant anecdotes and a compelling pictorial presentation, he recalled the devastation, displacement, violence and separation that marked one of the darkest chapters in the history of the subcontinent, particularly the suffering witnessed across Punjab.

Referring to Khushwant Singh’s “Train to Pakistan” and the tragic accounts of the “Khooni Trains”, he highlighted how literature and collective memory continue to preserve the pain and experiences of a generation.Emphasising that Partition was not merely a historical event but a profound human tragedy, he stressed that the stories, sacrifices and tears of millions must never be forgotten. Echoing the message of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, he called upon the younger generation to observe 14 August as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day with sensitivity and reflection, drawing lessons from the past to strengthen peace, unity, harmony and national solidarity.

Prof. (Dr.) Brigadier Neeraj Soni, Chairperson, Student Affairs, IIM Jammu, delivered a deeply moving and spiritually evocative address, urging the audience to remember the story of Partition not only through the lens of pain and devastation, but also through courage, sacrifice and resilience. Emphasising the spirit of “Veer Ras”, he drew upon the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji to underline the values of courage, duty, faith and selfless sacrifice.

He reminded the students that behind the violence, displacement and suffering of Partition lay countless stories of extraordinary human courage and determination. Calling upon the youth as future decision-makers and nation-builders, he urged them to transform remembrance into responsibility and purpose. His powerful words, “Jo deshkekaamnaaaye, wohjawaanibekaarhai,” resonated as a clarion call to dedicate youth and knowledge to the service of the nation.He urged the students to resolve to build a stronger, united and enlightened India, carrying forward the spirit of sacrifice while rising above the wounds of history.

The programme commenced with the opening remarks by Shri Vijay Anant Kamble, Administrative Officer, Student Affairs, IIM Jammu, who set a solemn and reflective tone for remembering one of the most painful chapters in the history of the Indian subcontinent. He further presented a powerful and evocative poem, with poignant rhymes that captured the pain of Partition, the loss and displacement of countless lives, and the enduring memories etched in the hearts of generations. His poetic rendition added an emotional and reflective dimension to the programme, reminding the audience that the wounds of history may fade with time, but the stories and sacrifices of those who endured them must never be forgotten.

Shri Shalin S., AO – PR & Admin, IIM Jammu, presented a poignant and visually compelling media showcase that brought alive the human stories of Partition, its pain, displacement, separation and resilience. Through a powerful audio-visual narrative, the presentation also highlighted the message and vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji on remembering the horrors of Partition and honoring the countless lives affected by it. The showcase evoked deep reflection and emotion, culminating in a profound message of remembrance, resilience, national unity and the enduring strength of India.

Students of IIM Jammu actively participated in the observance, adding a youthful and reflective dimension to the programme. Through soulful poetry and heartfelt reflections, they expressed their understanding of the pain, sacrifices and human stories associated with Partition, while sharing their perspectives on its relevance for the present generation. Their participation reflected a strong sense of historical awareness, empathy and responsibility towards preserving the memories of the past and carrying forward the values of unity, peace and national solidarity.

The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Brigadier Neeraj Soni, Chairperson, Student Affairs, IIM Jammu, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to making the observance meaningful and reflective.The observance served as a poignant reminder that remembering history is not merely about revisiting the past, but aboutunderstanding its lessons and strengthening the resolve to build a peaceful, united and resilient India.