Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. JAMMU: The University of Jammu today unveiled the third edition of its flagship multi-genre youth festival, Goonj 2026, at a Curtain Raiser press conference held on campus. The two-day festival will be organized on 27th and 28th February 2026, bringing together students, faculty, and teaching departments on a shared platform of creativity, collaboration, and institutional pride.
The press conference was addressed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Umesh Rai, who was flanked by Dean Research Studies Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, Dean Planning and Development, Prof Sangita Gupta, Registrar Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Director, Centre for Distance and Online Education Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava, and Dean Students Welfare Prof. Prakash C. Antahal.
Addressing the media, Prof. Rai reflected on the journey of Goonj since its inception in 2024. He stated that the initiative was conceived with a clear vision, to promote holistic development of students and to build a deeper sense of belongingness within the University community.
Emphasizing that education must extend beyond classroom instruction, he said that platforms like Goonj enable students to discover their potential through participation, interaction, and collective engagement.
Reiterating the guiding thought, “Dissolving Boundaries, Evolving Education,” the Vice Chancellor stressed the importance of academic collaboration and synergy. He observed that departments must move beyond isolated functioning and work together in a spirit of cooperation. “Goonj creates an environment where departments understand each other’s strengths, share best practices, and grow collectively,” he remarked.
Prof. Rai informed that around 600 students from Teaching Departments, Offsite Campuses, Affiliated Colleges, and neighboring Universities have registered for participation this year, and the number is expected to increase further. He also announced that the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir UT and Chancellor of the University will inaugurate Goonj 2026, while the Valedictory Function will be graced by Prof. Bechan Lal, former Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University and Advisor to the Governor of Assam, as Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Dean Research Studies Prof. Neelu Rohmetra highlighted that Goonj provides a unique opportunity for showcasing the distinct identity and strengths of the University’s 42 disciplines. Through exhibition stalls, departments will present their academic mandates, research initiatives, training activities, publications, and innovative practices. She noted that the competitive format encourages healthy academic spirit and mutual learning among departments.
Prof. Pankaj K. Srivastava, Director CDOE and Coordinator – Best Practices, informed that Goonj 2026 comprises three major segments — Sports, Cultural Activities, and the Best Practices Showcase. Under the Best Practices component, departments will be evaluated in two stages by a six-member jury from different organizations. After initial stall assessments, shortlisted departments will undergo on-site evaluation. He stated that entries have been received from various teaching departments of the University. He further informed that following a two-stage evaluation by an expert jury, the departments securing first, second and third positions will be awarded cash prizes, along with consolation prizes.
Adding further details, Dean Students Welfare Prof. Prakash C. Antahal informed that this year a new component — an Exhibition of Rare and Best-Selling Books — has been introduced to promote reading habits among students. He added that stress management sessions have been incorporated into the programme to support students’ mental well-being and equip them with practical strategies to handle stress. Prof. Antahal noted that participation in sports and cultural activities has increased compared to previous editions, reflecting growing enthusiasm among students.
Among others present on the occasion included Prof. Monika Chadha, Chairperson Campus Cultural Committee, Prof. Sarika Manhas, Co-Chairperson, Campus Cultural Committee, Prof. Garima Gupta, Prof. Dushyant Rai, Prof. Pankaj, members of various committees and staff.
