early times report
Jammu, July 24: In a significant initiative aimed at bolstering youth engagement and addressing the pressing issues faced by the younger generation, MLA Poonch and senior National Conference leader Ajaz Jan chaired a vital meeting at Bathindi, Jammu.
The event was organized by Tejinder Pal Singh Aman, Provincial President of the Youth National Conference (YNC), and saw enthusiastic participation from youth district presidents including Sahil Kerni (Jammu Urban), Sahil Chib, Jaseen Malik (Samba), Anoop Gupta (Kathua), Matti (Rajouri), and Akash Kharka (Udhampur Rural).
The discussions focused on key youth-centric issues such as rising unemployment, drug addiction, and the urgent need for institutional support. Ajaz Jan, drawing from his own experience as a former Youth President, encouraged the gathering to stay proactive in both social and political spheres.
“Having worked closely with youth for many years, I understand their aspirations and frustrations. During Omar Abdullah’s tenure as Chief Minister, several groundbreaking schemes were launched for youth empowerment. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to build on those foundations,” Jan said.
He stressed the need to counter the drug menace through awareness campaigns and rehabilitation measures, while also advocating for greater employment opportunities via skill development and entrepreneurship support.
Addressing the gathering, Tejinder Pal Singh Aman reiterated the party’s long-standing focus on youth empowerment.
“Omar Sahib always prioritized youth — whether it was education, employment, sports infrastructure, or skill training. The Sher-e-Kashmir Employment and Welfare Programme for Youth (SKEWPY) was a landmark effort. We are committed to carrying forward that legacy,” he said.
Aman also called for stronger coordination between district units to bolster grassroots activism and ensure that youth voices are heard across all platforms.
“Youth are our most valuable asset. It is our duty to guide, empower, and support them to build a stronger, more inclusive future,” he added.
The meeting concluded with a collective pledge to intensify efforts for youth welfare, party strengthening, and social reform across Jammu and Kashmir.
Prominent attendees included: Abid Magrey District President Ramban, Waqar Lone, Nitish Goswami (Provincial VP Jammu), Zameer Qureshi, Muzamil Malik, Vishal Parihar (VP Jammu), Yasir Ahsan, Majid Iqbal Naik, Rishab Sharma, Amit Sharma, and others. |
