Pir Panjal Winter Festival stands as a shining example of how sports and culture can be leveraged to foster a brighter future for the youth

By M S Nazki

The picturesque district of Poonch is set to come alive with the spirit of unity, culture, and sportsmanship as the Pir Panjal Winter Festival kicks off today, orchestrated by the Rashtriya Rifles Battalion under the esteemed leadership of Headquarters Counter Insurgency Force (ROMEO). This much-anticipated festival, running from 9th February to 31st March 2025, reflects the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, cultural preservation, and social reform, particularly in its advocacy against drug abuse.
The festival is designed to empower the youth of Poonch by providing them with avenues for creative expression, sportsmanship, and community engagement. It also aims to offer a platform for young people to showcase their talents while promoting a culture of positivity, discipline, and healthy living.
A Diverse Spectrum of Events: From Sports to Cultural Splendor
The Pir Panjal Winter Festival is an eclectic blend of sports tournaments, cultural performances, and artistic showcases. Among the major attractions of the festival are:
• Under-25 Boys Cricket Tournament: A platform for young cricketers to display their talent, aiming to unearth hidden sporting prodigies in the region.
• Under-25 Boys and Under-21 Girls Volleyball Tournament: Promoting teamwork, discipline, and the competitive spirit that is essential for youth development.
• Open Kho-Kho Tournament (for girls): A celebration of agility, strategy, and endurance, this tournament highlights the importance of physical fitness and mental strength.
• Gujari and Pahari Folk Dance Performances: With music and dance talent hunts, these performances celebrate the rich artistic heritage of Poonch, showcasing the region’s deep cultural roots.
• Solo and Group Singing Competitions: A chance for school and college students to display their vocal talents, expressing emotions and stories through music.
• Science and Arts Exhibitions: These exhibitions encourage youth to showcase their knowledge and creativity through activities like painting, essay writing, and elocution competitions.
• Live Musical Extravaganza: The festival will culminate with a grand finale, featuring a live performance by a famous artist and his ensemble, which will bring the festivities to an electrifying close.
A Catalyst for Change: Youth Empowerment and Drug Abuse Prevention
The Pir Panjal Winter Festival is not just a celebration of talent, but a transformative movement. The festival seeks to serve as a catalyst for social reform, particularly in advocating for the elimination of substance abuse among the youth of the region. By creating engaging spaces for the youth to channel their energies into constructive pursuits, the festival aims to guide them toward positive development and away from the perils of drugs and anti-social behavior.
In his address at the opening ceremony, Commanding Officer of 16 RR Colonel Davish underscored the importance of the festival as part of a larger initiative to promote social harmony, empowerment, and well-being in the district. He stated, “The Pir Panjal Winter Festival is a testament to our commitment to building a healthier, stronger, and more vibrant community. By focusing on youth and cultural revival, we not only honor the rich heritage of this region but also provide a platform to empower the next generation to be the leaders of tomorrow.”
Community Response: Uniting Forces for the Betterment of Poonch
The overwhelming response to the festival from the local populace of Poonch speaks volumes about the deep respect and camaraderie shared between the community and the Indian Army. The local youth, particularly from remote and marginalized areas, have shown great enthusiasm in participating in the various events, making the festival a resounding success even before it officially began.
The festival represents more than just a series of competitions and performances; it is a symbol of change for Poonch, a region that has faced its own set of challenges. By involving the youth in sports, arts, and cultural activities, the festival empowers them to move away from negative influences and become positive contributors to society. The focus on sportsmanship, discipline, and cultural preservation not only keeps the youth engaged but also fosters a sense of pride in their heritage and community values.
Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Empowerment
As the Pir Panjal Winter Festival unfolds over the coming weeks, it promises to leave a lasting impact on the youth of Poonch. By blending sports, arts, and culture with a mission of drug abuse prevention, this festival exemplifies the Indian Army’s dedication to the holistic development of the region’s youth.
The great initiative of General Officer Commanding (GOC) Romeo Force Maj. Gen. Manish Gupta and his team at Romeo Force continue to pave the way for social reformation, and the Pir Panjal Winter Festival stands as a shining example of how sports and culture can be leveraged to foster a brighter future for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
The event has been organized under the overall supervision of Commander 6 Sector Rashtriya Rifles Potha Surnakote Brigadier Rajneesh Giri. Local people from different walks has expressed gratitude toward Indian army and officers who are taking interest in this field.