Ludhiana, November 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Inter-College Youth Festival 2026-27 of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) began on Wednesday with a colourful cultural procession accompanied by dhol beats, highlighting Punjab’s heritage, social challenges and the aspirations of its youth.
Students showcased themes including agriculture, the significance of the five rivers, respect for elders, the drug menace, mobile addiction and the growing trend of young Punjabis moving abroad. The procession also called for restoring the spirit of ‘Rangla Punjab’.
Students from PAU’s constituent colleges in Ludhiana, Ballowal Saunkhri, Bathinda and Gurdaspur are participating in various festival events.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, the chief guest, praised PAU for its contribution to making Punjab the “Bread Basket of India” and said the state was blessed with a rich cultural heritage and energetic youth participation in cultural and sports events.
Cheema said the state had allocated Rs 30 crore for PAU infrastructure development last year and assured another grant to strengthen boys’ and girls’ hostels. He asked the university authorities to submit the estimates for the proposed allocation.
PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Harvinder Singh Dhaliwal said the festival was designed to help young people identify, cherish and showcase their talent. He recalled that the university had produced renowned artistes and Punjabi writers, including Dr JS Bhalla, Bal Mukund Sharma, Dr Surjit Patar, Kulwant Virk and Prof Mohan Singh.
Director of Students’ Welfare Dr KS Suri described the festival as a celebration of life and urged students to follow the principles of discipline, vision and dedication.
Dr TS Riar, Additional Director Communication, proposed the vote of thanks. Dr Ashok Kumar, Dr Nirmal Jaura, Dr JP Sharma and Dr VP Patel were felicitated during the event. The PAU Vice-Chancellor also honoured Cheema with a phulkari and memento.
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