University of Jammu to Host Goonj 2026 Youth Festival

LG Manoj Sinha to Inaugurate Multi-Genre Cultural and Academic Event

The University of Jammu will host the third edition of its flagship youth festival, Goonj 2026, a two-day multi-genre event celebrating creativity, sports and academic excellence. The festival will be inaugurated by Manoj Sinha , Chancellor of the University, while the closing ceremony will feature Professor Bechan Lal, former Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University and Advisor to the Governor of Assam.

Introduced in 2024, Goonj was envisioned to strengthen student engagement and cultivate institutional pride through co-curricular participation.

Promoting Holistic Development

Goonj provides a platform for students to showcase artistic, intellectual and athletic talents beyond classroom learning. The event encourages collaboration, leadership and creative exploration. Approximately 600 students from various teaching departments, affiliated colleges and neighbouring institutions have registered for this year’s edition.

Academic Exhibition and Competitive Spirit

The University’s 42 disciplines will present exhibition stalls displaying research projects, academic programmes, publications and innovative initiatives. The competitive format fosters cross-disciplinary learning and encourages academic excellence.

Sports, Culture and Best Practices

The festival comprises three segments—Sports, Cultural Activities and a Best Practices Showcase. The Best Practices segment will be evaluated in two stages by a six-member jury to ensure transparency and merit-based recognition.

A new feature this year is an exhibition of rare and best-selling books aimed at encouraging reading habits among students.

Important Facts for Exams

• University of Jammu is located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

• The Lieutenant Governor serves as Chancellor of universities in Union Territories.

• Youth festivals promote co-curricular and leadership development.

• Cluster Universities affiliate multiple colleges under a common framework.

By integrating sports, cultural expression and academic innovation, Goonj 2026 reflects the University’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded and socially responsible graduates.