Dr. Khurshid Qureshi
Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Srinagar, June 24: In a significant initiative aimed at greater understanding and civic engagement across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, the Jammu and Kashmir United Peoples Alliance (JKUPA) on Wednesday organised a high-level seminar titled “Dil Se Dil Tak: Voice of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh” in Srinagar.
The event brought together an eclectic gathering of social activists, intellectuals, journalists, youth leaders and members of civil society from the three regions, creating a vibrant platform for deliberations on shared concerns, regional aspirations and pathways towards inclusive development.
At the heart of the discussions was the imperative of nurturing sustained dialogue, strengthening people-to-people connections and cultivating a deeper sense of mutual trust among the diverse communities of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Participants emphasized that meaningful engagement remains indispensable for understanding the socio-economic realities, developmental priorities and collective aspirations of the region’s people.
The seminar presided by Syed Salim Gilani featured extensive deliberations on a wide spectrum of issues, including youth empowerment, employment generation, educational advancement, social harmony, cultural interconnectedness and participatory governance. Speakers observed that structured dialogue and civic interaction can serve as powerful instruments for dispelling misconceptions, bridging regional divides and reinforcing a culture of understanding and cooperation.
A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the recognition that, notwithstanding their distinct geographical, cultural and demographic characteristics, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh are bound by a rich and enduring civilisational, historical and social legacy. Participants stressed the importance of building upon these shared foundations to promote greater unity, collective resilience and equitable development.
The role of young people in shaping a peaceful and progressive future also received considerable attention. Speakers described the youth as catalysts of positive social transformation and called for enhanced opportunities for their constructive participation in public discourse, community initiatives and nation-building efforts.
Underscoring the significance of democratic engagement, the participants collectively advocated a framework of dialogue anchored in mutual respect, inclusivity and civic participation. They maintained that sustained interaction among individuals and communities from different regions is essential for fostering social stability, strengthening democratic values and advancing long-term prosperity.
Organisers stated that the “Dil Se Dil Tak” initiative seeks to amplify public voices, encourage intellectual exchange and facilitate meaningful conversations on issues of common concern. They expressed confidence that such platforms would contribute to a more informed, connected and harmonious society while reinforcing the spirit of cooperation and shared progress across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
The seminar concluded with a reaffirmation of the belief that enduring peace, social cohesion and sustainable development can be achieved only through continued dialogue, empathy and collaborative engagement among all sections of society.
Photos: Iqbal Beigh
