While Delhi University prepares flag hoisting to “instill patriotism and pride” for the country among it students, St Stephen’s College, the varsity’s top most college, is sending students to Jammu & Kashmir on the invitation of the Indian Army.
A group of 20 students including 10 girls would be selected on basis of applications - convincing about their interest and outcome of visiting the State. The trip would be fully funded by the Army.
“The Army unit, 23th Rashtriya Rifles in Jammu and Kashmir has invited students from college on a ten-day trip to the State. All travel lodging and boarding from Jammu onwards will be taken care by Indian Army,” an official from the college told The Pioneer.
The trip involves spending time with the Army unit, interaction with local villagers and youth including touring the city of Srinagar and visit to Gulmarg.
“The team will leave in the last week of May for the Valley. Around 10 male and 10 female students will constitute the group,” reads the notification of the college.
The “interested” students have been asked to write an application stating what they hope from such a trip.
Mumpi Mize who studies BA History (Honours) said, “I have never been out of my State and heard a lot about Kashmir. I am curious about the people and beauty of Kashmir. Going with the Army would be a totally different experience. We can learn so much. I want to interact with the local people,” she added.
Pertinently, Delhi University is preparing for its Foundation Day where the National Flag would be hoisted “permanently” by the HRD Minister Smriti Irani. Vice Chancellor Yogesh Tyagi has invited more “VIP guests” including retired Supreme Court judges.