Connecting Heritage: Participants acquainted with Symbolic 100 years old unique Banyan Tree on India-Pakistan Border at Suchetgarh
In a remarkable display of commitment towards fostering patriotism and awareness among the youth, the Director Tourism Jammu, Vivekanand Rai, along with Joint Director Tourism, Jammu, Sunaina Sharma flagged off Special Bus for “Suchetgarh Border Familiarization Tour.” Aligned with the initiatives of ‘Meri Mitti Mera Desh’ and ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ the Bus was flagged off today from Tourist Reception Centre Jammu and took college students on the Border Familiarization Tour on the Suchetgarh Border Octroi Post.
Under able guidance of Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah Administrative Secretary Tourism Department J&K, more than 50 enthusiastic college students from Government College for Women, Parade Ground Jammu, embarked on this enlightening journey which was conducted under the theme of promotion of Border Tourism destinations of Jammu region. The tour aimed to provide participants with a profound understanding of our nation’s history, the valor of our armed forces and the sacrifices made by our heroes for the independence of the country in general and the Suchetgarh Border in particular.
The symbolic banyan tree, which uniquely demarcates the boundary between India and Pakistan on the International Border (IB) at Suchetgarh, served as a poignant reminder of the shared heritage and the need for peace and harmony in the region. The participants were educated about the significance of this tree and its representation of the strong bond between the two nations.
During the tour, the students were also enlightened about the Prime Minister’s vision for India in 2047, envisioning a nation free from corruption, poverty, unemployment, malnutrition, illiteracy, and other social evils. Through such initiatives, the Directorate of Tourism Jammu seeks to inspire the youth to contribute to the progress and development of the nation.
The concept of border tourism holds immense potential in showcasing the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region. The Government has taken proactive steps to promote border tourism, recognizing its significance in strengthening the bond between citizens and their motherland. Such initiatives aim to engage citizens, particularly the youth, in a deeper appreciation of their nation’s history, legacy, and the valor of our armed forces.
While addressing the media persons, the Director Tourism said, “Today, as we set out on the Suchetgarh Border Familiarization Tour, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and purpose. This journey is not just a physical expedition; it’s a quest to delve deep into our nation’s heritage and honor the dedication of our armed forces. As we stand here, on the threshold of history, I am reminded of the sacrifices made by countless brave soldiers who protect our borders with unwavering valor”.
He further said that the concept of border tourism is a testament to our commitment to remember and appreciate their sacrifices. Our borders are not merely geographical divisions; they are the guardians of our sovereignty and a testament to our unity as a nation. Through this tour, we have a unique opportunity to pay tribute to our heroes and learn about their incredible stories of courage.
When approached by the media persons, Sunaina Sharma Mehta Joint Director of Tourism Jammu highlighted the tour’s alignment with ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations. Her guidance and insights enriched the participants’ experience, nurturing a deeper sense of patriotism and appreciation for our nation’s history. Ms Mehta shed light on the concept of border tourism, underlining its significance in promoting cultural exchange, peace, and understanding between neighboring countries. By exposing the youth to border areas and their unique heritage, the tour serves as a bridge of goodwill, fostering friendship beyond borders. Through her insightful interactions, Smt. Sunaina Sharma Mehta, along with the rest of the Directorate of Tourism team, further enriched the educational experience of the participants, contributing to the tour’s success in nurturing patriotism and unity among the youth.
The Suchetgarh border Familiarization Tour organized by the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to promoting patriotism, cultural vibrancy, and heritage. It is through such endeavors that the Directorate strives to nurture a sense of pride, commitment, and belongingness among the residents of Jammu, while celebrating India’s glorious journey towards independence.
The flagging off ceremony for the Suchetgarh Border Familiarization Tour was graced by the presence of distinguished officers from the Directorate of Tourism, including Deputy Director Tourism, Abdul Jabbar, Assistant Director Tourism Jammu, Sugandi Banotra, Assistant Director Tourism NH Batote Mohd Arif Lone and senior officers and officials of Directorate of Tourism Jammu.
