‘Share the Real Kashmir with the Nation’
SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, June 26: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday made an impassioned appeal to National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets from across India to act as ambassadors of peace, unity, and harmony by sharing their personal experiences from the Valley with people back home.
Addressing the cadets at the NCC Special Integration Camp–2025 at Badami Bagh Cantonment, Srinagar, the Chief Minister described the presence of young cadets from different regions of India as a “morale booster” for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The 12-day camp, organized to foster national integration and cultural exchange among youth, witnessed vibrant performances celebrating India’s diversity.
“I urge all of you to go back home and be our ambassadors,” Omar Abdullah said while addressing the gathering as the chief guest. “Tell your families, friends, and neighbors about the real Jammu and Kashmir you witnessed—the warmth, the culture, the people, and the truth beyond sensational headlines.”
The Chief Minister acknowledged the grief caused by the recent terror attack in Baisaran, which claimed 26 innocent lives. “This year has tested us in ways we hoped never to face again,” he said. “But even in these moments of sorrow, we find resilience. There is always light at the end of the tunnel.”
Encouraging the NCC to continue organizing such camps in Kashmir, Omar Abdullah suggested adding railway journeys to future integration programmes. “Let the cadets experience firsthand the engineering marvels that now connect Kashmir to the rest of the country. These journeys will not just be physical—they will be deeply inspiring,” he said.
He lauded the cadets for their impressive cultural display, saying, “In less than an hour, you took us from the snow-covered mountains of Kashmir to the sun-drenched coasts of Kerala. Your energy, discipline, and performance are praiseworthy.”
Reflecting on his own student days, Omar shared that the friendships formed in such camps often last a lifetime. “When you travel, perform, and live together, you forge unbreakable bonds. Cherish these relationships—they are invaluable,” he added.
Emphasizing the theme of national unity, the Chief Minister reminded the audience of the preamble to the Indian Constitution. “‘We, the People of India’—these are not just words. They are a reminder that our strength lies not in uniformity, but in our shared diversity,” he said.
He underscored that such integration camps symbolize India’s emotional and physical unity. “These are not just training exercises or cultural events. They are the heartbeat of our national spirit. As long as we keep nurturing this bond, no force can divide us.”
The event concluded with Omar Abdullah expressing gratitude to the cadets for their active participation and spirit of togetherness. “You have helped build physical connections across states. Now I trust you will continue to connect hearts across the nation,” he said.
The occasion was graced by ministers Sakeena Itoo and Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Major General Anupinder Bevli (Additional Director General, NCC Directorate J&K and Ladakh), the Vice Chancellor of Cluster University Kashmir, senior army officials, NCC cadets from various states and Union Territories, and other dignitaries.
