KATHUA: A series of community outreach and participation activities were organised today across Kathua district as part of the ongoing 15-day Janjatiya Gaurav Pakhwara celebrations, highlighting the rich cultural heritage, traditions and contributions of tribal communities while promoting environmental conservation and grassroots participation.
Educational institutions, Panchayati Raj Institutions and the Rural Development Department actively participated through plantation drives, awareness sessions, cultural programmes and interactive activities. Students, teachers and community members joined hands to promote environmental responsibility and community engagement.
Plantation drives were conducted at various locations to encourage forest conservation and sustainable practices. Awareness sessions and interactions with tribal elders and local knowledge holders provided students and community members insights into indigenous knowledge, traditional customs and cultural heritage, strengthening intergenerational connections.
Educational institutions also organised drawing and painting competitions, speeches, poetry recitations, quizzes, folk dances and cultural performances. Special activities highlighted the life and contributions of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and the role of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle.
The celebrations witnessed active participation across Billawar, Basohli, Marheen, Barnoti, Sallan, Hiranagar, Mahanpur, Dinga Amb and other areas of the district.
The ongoing Pakhwara aims to celebrate tribal identity, preserve indigenous traditions, recognise the contributions of tribal freedom fighters and promote greater community participation in safeguarding the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
