Jashn-e-Karnah 2026, organised by the Army and Kupwara administration, seeks to provide a platform to local talent, encourage girls in sports and promote the border region’s cultural identity
Peerzada Zubair
Tithwal, Nov 08: In the border region of Karnah, where opportunities for young people and access to institutional support remain important concerns, a 13-day festival brought together sports, folk traditions and community welfare activities, seeking to connect local talent with wider opportunities.
The Karnah Youth Festival 2026, titled Jashn-e-Karnah: Rang, Riwaayat aur Riwaaj, concluded at Tithwal on November 7. Organised jointly by the Indian Army and the District Administration Kupwara, the festival began on October 25 and was held across Lountha, Chamkot, Hajinar and Tithwal.
From volleyball and cricket to badminton, athletics and traditional folk performances, the programme sought to provide a platform for young people to showcase their abilities while celebrating the region’s cultural diversity.
The sporting competitions included boys’ volleyball and T-20 cricket, girls’ T-10 cricket, badminton and athletics, besides an inter-village men’s tug-of-war competition. Particular emphasis was placed on encouraging girls to participate in competitive sports.
The concluding ceremony at Shaan-e-Tithwal Cricket Ground also brought the region’s cultural traditions into focus. Performances reflecting Pahari, Gujri, Punjabi and Kashmiri folk traditions formed part of the programme. Artists from the Valley, including Abid Ali and Shazia Bashir, along with the Yemberzal Dance Group, performed before the gathering.
**Beyond celebrations: healthcare, livelihood and education**
The festival also included activities aimed at addressing community needs. A medical camp and blood donation drive were organised, while mobility equipment was distributed among people in need.
Assistance stalls were set up to help residents access government schemes and information relating to healthcare, livelihood, education and career opportunities. Local food, handicrafts and recreational activities added to the programme.
A large number of residents, including women and children, youth, civil society representatives and officials from the Army and civil administration, participated in the celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, the General Officer Commanding of the Vajr Division, who was the chief guest, highlighted Karnah’s cultural heritage and the people’s attachment to the nation.
He said the region had considerable potential for tourism and that a combination of tourism development, education and women’s empowerment could help transform its socio-economic landscape.
The festival brought the Army, civil administration, schools and local communities together around a broader objective of promoting youth participation, preserving cultural traditions and strengthening community ties.
It also highlighted the need to channel the energy of young people towards education, sports and constructive activities, with organisers emphasising the importance of building a healthy and drug-free society.
