The Kashmiri Youth Exchange Programme ‘Watan Ko Jano,’ organized by the Government of India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with MY Bharat – NYKS Tamil Nadu & Puducherry and Sri Sairam Engineering College, Chennai, was successfully held on November 9, 2024, at the Youth Hostel Auditorium in Adyar, Chennai.

The event commenced with a Welcome Note by Shri S. Senthilkumar, State Director, MY Bharat (NYKS) Tamil Nadu & Puducherry, and was presided over by Shri Prakash Govindasami, IAS, Principal Secretary/Commissioner, Department of Agriculture Marketing, Government of Tamil Nadu. The Chief Guest, Smt. Thamizhachi Thangapandian, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Chennai South Constituency, graced the occasion with her presence.

The inauguration was conducted by Dr. B. Shamoondeswari, IPS, Inspector General of Police (General), Office of the Director General of Police/Head of Police Force, Chennai. Shri M. Annadurai, IIS, Additional Director General, Central Bureau of Communications, Chennai, and Shri Dr. C. Samuel Chelliah, NSS Regional Director, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & A.N.I. delivered special addresses.

The Keynote Address was given by Dr. Sai Prakash Leo Muthu, Chairman & CEO, Sairam Institutions, Chennai, followed by a Felicitation by Dr. Arokiamary Geetha Rufus, Principal, Patrician College of Arts & Science. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Shri A. Saravanan, District Youth Officer, MY Bharat (NYKS), Chennai.

This vibrant event provided a unique opportunity for youth from Kashmir and across the country to engage in cultural exchange, celebrate diversity, and promote national unity. Through interactive sessions and activities, participants gained valuable insights into Kashmir’s rich traditions, history, and culture while forging lasting connections with peers from all over India.