Peerzada Zubair
Kupwara, April 02: The much-anticipated Zarla Winter Festival commenced today with great enthusiasm, offering an exciting blend of winter sports, cultural performances, and community engagement in the picturesque snow-covered landscapes of Zarla,Tangdar. Organized by the Indian Army’s 104 Shakti Vijay Brigade, the festival aims to encourage youth participation in adventure sports and promote winter tourism in the region.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by the Deputy Commander of 104 Shakti Vijay Brigade as the Chief Guest, accompanied by esteemed dignitaries, including the Commanding Officer of 7 Rashtriya Rifles, The Munsif Judge Karnah, the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) of Tangdar, the Principal of GDC Tangdar, and the Principal of Army Goodwill School (AGS) Hajinar. The event has attracted nearly 150 enthusiastic young participants from various schools and colleges across the region.
A key highlight of the festival is the free ski training program, conducted by certified instructors from Gulmarg, providing young enthusiasts with professional coaching in skiing. This initiative is aimed at encouraging local youth to explore winter sports and consider potential career opportunities in adventure tourism.
The festival also offers a diverse range of activities, including snow games, cultural performances, and interactive sessions. Adding to the festive spirit, food stalls featuring local delicacies and refreshments have been set up, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all attendees.
The event has witnessed active participation from 400 students, 100 ex-servicemen, members of the media, and local youth, who showcased their skills in various competitions. The Indian Army has played a crucial role in organizing the festival, reinforcing its commitment to guiding the youth towards sports and constructive engagements by providing infrastructure, training, and encouragement.
The Zarla Winter Festival will continue until April 4, culminating in a grand closing ceremony featuring more competitions, cultural performances, and a final showcase of skiing talents. This festival stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of multiple stakeholders in promoting winter tourism and fostering a culture of adventure sports in the region.
