Suhail Khan
Ganderbal, Jan 25: Wasil Ayoub, a student from Kurhama Ganderbal, is set to be the sole volunteer from Kashmir to participate in the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. He will represent not only the National Service Scheme (NSS) but also aims to showcase the Valley’s rich cultural heritage on the national stage.
Wasil, a student at the Government College of Engineering and Technology (GCET) Safapora, affiliated with Cluster University Srinagar, was selected for the NSS Republic Day Camp (RDC) after a rigorous selection process. The camp brings together top NSS volunteers from across the country.
“This year, I was selected for the prestigious NSS Republic Day Camp in New Delhi, representing Jammu and Kashmir,” Wasil told Kashmir Convener.
His selection follows a record of active participation in social service and youth development initiatives. An NSS volunteer since 2022, he has represented J&K at events such as the National Adventure Camp 2024, where he served as the volunteer captain for the Union Territory’s contingent, and the National Integration Camp 2025. His contributions have earned him honors such as ‘Best NSS Volunteer’ and ‘Best Speaker.’
For Wasil, the opportunity extends beyond parade drills and leadership sessions. He emphasized the importance of using national platforms to represent Kashmiri culture. “It’s very important for youngsters to represent our Kashmiri culture wherever they get an opportunity, be it at the national or international level,” he said.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener he said that observing how other states promote their traditions has inspired him. “As Kashmiris, we must promote our culture more and more. It is so beautiful; people across different countries love our culture, so it’s our responsibility to keep it alive on as many occasions as possible,” he stated.
From traditional cuisine like Wazwan to other customs, he believes Kashmir possesses a unique cultural identity. “I, being a youngster, fall in love with my culture—it’s so beautiful,” he added.
During the RDC, Wasil Ayoub will participate in national-level cultural programs, drill and marching training, leadership development sessions, social awareness activities, and the Prime Minister’s Rally. The schedule also includes visits to Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Vice President’s House, which he views as an opportunity to gain exposure to India’s democratic and constitutional institutions.
“It’s truly a proud moment for me to be part of this occasion, where I will not only participate in the parade but also have the even greater happiness of representing our Kashmiri culture to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on this special occasion,” he said.
He said I am really thankful to my Programme Officer, Prof. Sameer Gupkari, who has been so helpful and supportive in my journey.
This Ganderbal engineering student said, “We should remain rooted in our culture… I have seen that different people have different cultures, but believe me, whenever they see ours, they are impressed. We really have a great, unique culture.”
He urged the youth to play an active role in safeguarding and promoting their heritage. “Others are rooted in their own cultures. We must also play a role; especially the younger generation has a responsibility to safeguard our Kashmiri culture and promote it more and more,” he added.
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