Jammu University Hosts Goonj 2026 Youth Festival

The University of Jammu is set to organise the third edition of its flagship multi-genre youth festival, Goonj 2026, bringing together students and faculty in a celebration of creativity and institutional spirit. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who serves as the Chancellor of the University, will inaugurate the two-day event. The valedictory function will be attended by Professor Bechan Lal, former Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University and Advisor to the Governor of Assam.

Launched in 2024, Goonj was conceived to promote holistic student development and foster a deeper sense of belonging within the university community.

Platform for Holistic Student Development

Goonj serves as a platform for students to explore their talents beyond academics. By encouraging participation, collaboration and interaction, the festival seeks to nurture leadership, teamwork and creative expression.

This year, around 600 students from teaching departments, off-site campuses, affiliated colleges and neighbouring universities have registered, with participation expected to rise further.

Showcasing Academic Strengths

The festival offers an opportunity to highlight the distinct identity of the University’s 42 disciplines. Departments will set up exhibition stalls to present their academic mandates, research initiatives, training programmes, publications and innovative practices.

The competitive format promotes healthy academic engagement and mutual learning, reinforcing a spirit of excellence across faculties.

Sports, Culture and Best Practices

Goonj 2026 comprises three core segments: Sports, Cultural Activities and the Best Practices Showcase. The Best Practices component will be assessed in two stages by a six-member jury drawn from diverse organisations, ensuring objective evaluation.

The integration of sports and cultural activities underscores the University’s emphasis on balanced development alongside academic achievement.

Important Facts for Exams

• University of Jammu is located in Jammu and Kashmir.
• Lieutenant Governor of a Union Territory often serves as Chancellor of state universities.
• Youth festivals promote co-curricular engagement in higher education institutions.
• Cluster University is a model of affiliating multiple colleges under one university framework.

New Focus on Reading Culture

A new addition this year is the Exhibition of Rare and Best-Selling Books, introduced to encourage reading habits among students. The initiative reflects the University’s effort to combine innovation with intellectual enrichment.

Through sports, culture, academic exhibitions and literary engagement, Goonj 2026 reinforces the University of Jammu’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, confident and socially responsible graduates.