STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Directorate of Tourism, Jammu in collaboration with the District Administration, Samba and Government Polytechnic College Jammu, orchestrated an extraordinary celebration to mark the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Foundation Day. This remarkable event artfully blended adventure and cultural festivities, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and the spirit of unity.
The centerpiece of the celebration was a one-day trekking expedition, commencing from the tranquil Tourist village Mohargarh and culminating at the picturesque Mansar Lake. About 70 enthusiastic trekkers, including students and faculty members from diverse disciplines at the Polytechnic College, embarked on this thrilling journey.
The flag-off ceremony, held at the prestigious Government Polytechnic College, Jammu, was graced by the presence of Sunaina Mehta Sharma Joint Director Tourism Jammu and the Principal of Government Polytechnic College Bikram Chowk, Jammu. Also in attendance were faculty members of the Government Polytechnic College, as well as officers and officials of the Department.
In her address, Sharma emphasized the Directorate of Tourism Jammu’s commitment to promoting adventure tourism in the region, guided by the able leadership of Secretary Tourism, Dr. Syed Abid Rashid, and Director Tourism, Vivekanand Rai.
She highlighted the enduring significance of this trek, a tradition championed by the department for several years. The goal is to transform Mansar and its surroundings into a winter hub for soft adventure activities, including trekking, adventure camps, and hiking.
Sharma further accentuated the importance of proper trekking gear and the necessity of maintaining cleanliness in these areas. This initiative seeks to offer visitors a luxurious and adventurous experience by revealing the numerous trekking routes in Mansar.
The trek wove its way through the captivating Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary, offering trekkers picturesque views of the surrounding hills. Beginning at Mahoregarh Fort, with its historical roots as an Afghan outpost, the trail enthralled participants with an adventurous ascent. Reaching the summit, trekkers were rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Mansar Lake, adding immeasurable delight to their journey.
Arun Bangotra, Principal Polytechnic College, shared his personal experiences, underscoring how such trails offer urban dwellers the unique chance to reconnect with nature.
He lauded the collaborative efforts of the Tourism Department and District Administration Samba, in making this event possible.
The trekkers were warmly welcomed at Nud, Samba, by a distinguished reception party, including Keshav Sharma, DDC Chairman of Samba, Abhishek Sharma, Deputy Commissioner of Samba, Benam Tosh, Senior Superintendent of Police in Samba, along with other esteemed officers.
The Deputy Commissioner, in his address, underscored the significance of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Foundation Day. He added that this occasion serves as a tribute to the region’s rich culture, heritage and the contributions of its people.
Additionally, this day aligns with Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s Iron Man. It stands as a symbol of unity, emphasizing the shared principles that bind the diverse regions of India.
The festivities continued at historic Samba fort with an engaging cultural program, featuring Nukkad Natak, an open mic session, a live painting competition, a photo exhibition and departmental stalls, collectively creating an immersive and memorable celebration for the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Foundation Day.
This event is a testament to the successful blending of adventure and culture, underscoring the rich heritage of the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. It stands as a symbol of unity and the celebration of the region’s extraordinary diversity.