The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed universities and higher educational institutions across the country to observe September 29 as “Surgical Strike day”.

Talk sessions by ex-servicemen about sacrifices by the Armed forces, special parades, visit to exhibitions and sending greeting cards to pledge their support to Armed forces are among the activities prescribed by the UGC.

“The NCC units of all universities should organise a special parade on September 29 after which the NCC commander shall address them on the modalities of protection of the borders. The varsities may organise a talk-session calling ex-servicemen to sensitise students about sacrifices made by the Armed forces,” the UGC said in a communication to all Vice-Chancellors on Thursday.

“A multimedia exhibition will be organised around India Gate on September 29. Similar exhibitions may be organised in States, Union Territories, important towns and cantonments across the country.

“The institutions should encourage students and faculty members to visit these exhibitions,” the letter added.

The commission has suggested the students shall pledge their support to Armed forces by writing letters and cards which may be produced in digital and physical formats.

“The letters and cards should be shared with PRO Defence and PIB for publicity,” the UGC said.

India carried out surgical strikes on September 29, 2016 on seven terror launch pads across the LoC in PoK in with the Army special forces inflicting “significant casualties” on terrorists poised to infiltrate.