Chandigarh, March 6, 2025: The Department of Defence & National Security Studies (DDNSS) at Panjab University, Chandigarh, successfully organized its second two-day annual literary and cultural fest, "KAVACH: रणनीति का रंगमंच," on March 5-6, 2025, at the Student Centre of Panjab University. This year’s event was especially significant as the department celebrated the 25th anniversary of its establishment.
The inaugural ceremony was held at the Law Auditorium, where Dr. Jaskaran Singh Waraich, Chairman, DDNSS, welcomed distinguished guests, university faculty, students, and NCC cadets. He highlighted the fest’s objective of strengthening the civilian connection with the Armed Forces, particularly among college and university youth, while raising awareness about national security.
Dr. Shaveri Thakur convened the inaugural session, which featured Lt. Gen. Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, 11 Corps, as the Chief Guest. Lt. Gen. Chandpuria delivered an insightful address on the role of the armed forces in nation-building. He provided a strategic overview of India’s demographic composition, economy, geography, and maritime and land borders. He emphasized that while India is making remarkable strides, such as launching international infrastructure projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and space missions, it continues to grapple with socio-economic challenges. Highlighting ongoing global conflicts in Ukraine, Syria, Sudan, Congo, and Yemen, he underlined the critical role of national security in safeguarding India’s interests. He also detailed the multifaceted contributions of the Indian Army, from maintaining territorial integrity to engaging in infrastructure development, educational initiatives, ecological conservation, and international peacekeeping, all while upholding its core values of integrity, discipline, loyalty, courage, professionalism, and patriotism.
The Guest of Honour, Sh. Malvinder Singh Kang, Member of Parliament from Anandpur Sahib and a former two-time President of the Panjab University Student Council, lauded the department’s efforts in promoting awareness on national security issues. Acknowledging the sacrifices of Punjab’s people in ensuring the nation’s safety, he commended India’s military for its unwavering commitment to national security. He also announced a grant of INR 10 lakh for the department and praised Panjab University for its vibrant and picturesque campus.
The presidential address was delivered by Prof. Yojna Rawat, Director of the Research & Development Cell at Panjab University. She encouraged the department to continue hosting such events to foster holistic development among students. The event also featured inspiring accounts from Col. Sarfraz Singh and Maj. Deependra Vikram Basnet, Kirti Chakra, who shared their experiences in the Indian Army and motivated students to consider a career in the armed forces.
The fest featured an array of activities, including a military equipment and weapon display by the Western Command, Chandimandir, showcasing infantry battalion weapons. The 1 Chandigarh Air Squadron and 1 Chandigarh Naval Unit exhibited aircraft and ship models, respectively. A musical performance by BIG Band (Bonded in Gratitude), composed of visually impaired students from different Panjab University departments, captivated the audience. Other activities included a blood donation camp in collaboration with PGI Chandigarh, an open mic session, a military quiz, and various fun and sports activities.
The event witnessed an overwhelming response, attracting over 1,000 attendees on the first day alone. Participants included students from various colleges and schools, NCC cadets from the army, air, and naval wings, veterans, serving officers, research scholars, faculty members, and the general public. The fest was sponsored by Crest Bell Support Private Limited, contributing to its grand success.
With its engaging programs and insightful discussions, “KAVACH: रणनीति का रंगमंच” proved to be a landmark event in strengthening civil-military relations and spreading awareness about national security among youth.
