Kupwara, Nov 08: Emphasising the link between peace and economic development, the Army’s 28 Infantry Division General Officer Commanding, Major General Rakesh Nair, on Sunday said Karnah has the potential to emerge as a destination for border tourism, with its natural beauty, cultural heritage and traditions offering opportunities for growth.
Addressing the Karnah Youth Festival 2026 at Tithwal, GOC Nair said peace was a prerequisite for development, allowing education, businesses and tourism to flourish.
“Where peace prevails, education flourishes, businesses grow, tourism opens new doors and prosperity finds its way,” he said, describing peace and progress as two faces of the same coin.
The festival, titled ‘Jashn-e-Karnah: Rang, Riwaayat aur Riwaaj’, was organised by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Kupwara district administration. It brought together residents from different villages of Karnah, including women, children, youth and elderly people.
GOC Maj Gen Rakesh Nair said the festival was an effort to celebrate the region’s history, legacy and community spirit while drawing attention to its potential beyond its identity as a border area.
“Today, we envision Karnah being recognised for border tourism, its rich culture, its natural splendour and as a new hub for progress. We strive to showcase Karnah’s breathtaking valleys, its educational landscape, its traditions and the lives of its people to the entire world,” he said.
The event featured stalls showcasing local art, traditional practices, gardening, livestock rearing and government welfare schemes. A medical camp was also organised, with doctors providing healthcare services to residents, while local youth participated in a blood donation drive.
Sporting activities formed another part of the festival, with girls participating in athletics and cricket competitions. Young men also took part in various sports events aimed at promoting fitness and healthy lifestyles.
Traditional folk songs, dances and cultural performances highlighted Karnah’s customs and heritage. Winners of various competitions were felicitated, while local artists were appreciated for their performances.
The festival concluded with a message of unity, youth empowerment and stronger cooperation between the Army and local residents, with the organisers highlighting tourism, cultural exchange and livelihood opportunities as potential avenues for the region’s development.
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