National Youth Exchange Programme 2025 Concludes at Jammu University

Jammu, August 20: The National Youth Exchange Programme & National Youth Excellence Awards 2025, jointly organized by the Department of Home Science, University of Jammu, and Live For Others – Being Helpful Foundation (NGO), concluded today with a grand valedictory function at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu.

The highlight of the event was the conferment of the Vishisht Seva Bhushan on Dr. S. P. Vaid (IPS), Former DGP J&K, in recognition of his exemplary contribution towards combating terrorism and drug abuse. In his inspiring address, Dr. Vaid urged the youth to take the lead in fighting drug addiction while also emphasizing the importance of safeguarding India’s rich cultural heritage against erosion.

The function was graced by Chief Guest Sh. Vikram Randhawa, Member Legislative Assembly (J&K), and Guest of Honor Sh. Ravinder Raina, senior BJP leader. Sh. Randhawa emphasized the importance of collective action in making Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s dream of Viksit Bharat a reality. Sh. Raina, in his remarks, stressed the need for young people to remain true citizens of India, upholding values of integrity and responsibility.

Another major highlight was the National Youth Excellence Award Ceremony, where achievers from 15 states and Union Territories of India were honored for their outstanding contributions in social work, literature, culture, and art. The awards particularly recognized young individuals who had already demonstrated exemplary social service in their own states.

Delivering the Presidential Remarks, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra, officiating Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu praised the joint efforts of the Department of Home Science and the NGO in providing a meaningful and constructive platform for youth engagement.

The event also witnessed the presence of eminent academicians from the University of Jammu Prof. Rajni Dhingra; Prof. Samridhi Arora; Prof. Monika Chadha; Dr. Hema Gandotra; Dr. A. R. Manhas; Dr. Harleen Kaur; and Dr. Nitan Sharma.

Sh. Vivek Parihar, Director of Live For Others – Being Helpful Foundation, presented a detailed report on the three-day programme, outlining its outreach and impact.

The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks by Prof. Sarika Manhas, Head, Department of Home Science, University of Jammu. In her remarks, Prof. Manhas expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the event. She made a special mention of Prof. Umesh Rai, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, for his esteemed guidance and unwavering support, which was instrumental in ensuring the successful conduct of the programme.

This joint venture emerged as a milestone in fostering national integration, empowering youth leadership, and bringing together the youth of Jammu & Kashmir and other parts of India on a common exchange platform, with the active participation of more than 200 students in this mega event.