Empowering students through Art, Culture, SED’s priority, Says Pr Secy Edu at Kala Utsav in Jammu

Jammu : Amid spectacular performances, the Kala Utsav 2024, organised by J&K Samagra Shiksha, concluded on Friday at the Convention Centre, Jammu, on a high note.
The valedictory ceremony was chaired by Principal Secretary, School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta which was attended by students and teachers from different areas of Jammu & Kashmir.
The Principal Secretary, in his address, praised the students’ exceptional performances and emphasised the importance of integrating arts into formal education. He said that “Kala Utsav is an outstanding initiative that brings out the hidden artistic potential of students. It nurtures creativity and fosters a sense of unity through cultural diversity of our region”. He also highlighted the efforts made to improve the potential of students participating in cultural events. He stated that NEP-2020 gives much importance to such cultural initiatives for holistic development of students.
Gupta acknowledged the pivotal role of teachers in identifying and encouraging young talent from every corner of the J&K. He further underlined the importance of such initiatives in shaping students into well-rounded individuals who appreciate cultural heritage and artistic pursuits.
He also stressed that Kala Utsav exemplifies the essence of inclusive education by ensuring that every student, irrespective of their background, has a chance to shine on a prestigious platform. He reiterated hope that the enthusiasm and dedication witnessed at this year’s event would serve as an inspiration for future editions. Samagra Shiksha remains committed towards fostering programs that integrate arts into the education system, paving way for a more culturally enriched academic environment, he maintained.
Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, while presenting welcome address, highlighted the event as a remarkable platform for students to express their creativity, gain confidence and embrace cultural diversity. He emphasised that integrating arts into education not only fosters inherent talent but also nurtures a balanced personality among students by promoting emotional, social and intellectual growth. He informed that 12 group-item/solo-items have been selected at the divisional level. He expressed deep gratitude to the dedicated teachers, schools and organizers for their unwavering commitment towards making the event a grand success.
In the dance (Group) category, students of Dawn Public School, Rajouri, claimed the first position. In the Vocal Music (Group) category, the students of HS Chhatriari, Udhampur, earned the top prize. In the Visual Arts (Solo) category, Shivanshi Thakur of St. Xavier’s Convent School, Kathua, showcased outstanding artistic brilliance. Jatin and Sourav from GHSS Nagri Parole, Kathua, captivated the audience with their storytelling skills, winning the Traditional Storytelling category. In the Drama (Group) category, GHSS Khanna Chhargal, District Jammu, delivered a thought-provoking performance, earning them the top spot.
Lastly, Ishfaq Hameed from Doon International School, District Baramulla, stole the show in the Instrumental Music (Solo) category with his outstanding musical talent.
The event concluded with distribution of prizes, citations, medals, leaving the students encouraged and inspired.
Pertinently, the winners of UT Level Kala Utsav shall participate in the National Level Kala Utsav competition in the coming days.
Among others, the program was attended by Padam-shree Awardee, Rumalo Ram, Project Director, Samagra Shiksha, Rakesh Magotra, Director School Education Jammu, Ashok Kumar Sharma, Deputy Director (P) Samagra Shiksha Bilal Rashid, Mohammad Rameez Khan CAO Samagra Shiksha and other officers of school education department.