Budgam, August 12: Government Degree College (GDC) Beerwah celebrated International Youth Day 2026 with great enthusiasm, patriotic spirit, and social awareness. The event brought together youth empowerment initiatives, HIV/AIDS awareness, cultural performances, sports activities, the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, and the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram.
The programme was organised by the Red Ribbon Club in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir AIDS Control Society and the Higher Education Department, J&K, with enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, NSS volunteers, and NCC cadets.
The event was moderated by Prof. Bashir Ahmad who welcomed the participants and highlighted the pivotal role of youth in nation-building. He said that initiatives such as Har Ghar Tiranga and the 150 Years of Vande Mataram celebration inspire young people to strengthen national unity, patriotism, and appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Qazi Ashiq Hussain, followed by the inaugural address of the College Principal, Prof. Sheikh Bilal Ahmad. In his speech, he stressed the importance of education, discipline, cultural values, and active youth participation in nation-building. He urged students to actively participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and uphold the values symbolised by the National Flag and the patriotic song Vande Mataram.
A comprehensive HIV/AIDS awareness session was delivered by Prof. Ashiq Hussain Bhat, who educated students about HIV prevention, responsible behaviour, early testing, and the need to eliminate misconceptions and social stigma associated with the disease. Students actively interacted during the session and pledged to spread awareness within society.
Students from the Departments of Kashmiri and Urdu presented colourful folk songs and cultural performances, showcasing the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, who expressed gratitude to the Principal, faculty members, organisers, NSS and NCC volunteers, and students for making the event a grand success.
Later, the Department of Physical Education organised an exciting Tug of War competition in which students participated with great enthusiasm. The activity promoted teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, and the importance of physical fitness.
A major highlight of the celebration was the Tiranga Rally held within the college campus, in which NSS volunteers and NCC cadets participated enthusiastically. Organised under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, the rally aimed to promote respect for the National Flag, patriotism, unity, and national integration.
The rally was also dedicated to commemorating the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, acquainting students with the historical significance of the national song while reinforcing the ideals of unity, integrity, and responsible citizenship.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Bashir Ahmad appreciated the enthusiastic participation of students, teachers, and volunteers. He remarked that the combined celebration of International Youth Day, Har Ghar Tiranga, and the 150 Years of Vande Mataram served as an excellent platform to inspire youth towards patriotism, cultural heritage, social responsibility, and national unity.
The programme concluded with all participants taking a pledge to promote health awareness, uphold national values, and contribute positively towards building a healthy, united, responsible, and progressive India.
