Shopian:  A two-day-long Jashn-e-Chillai Kalan festival, organized by the Indian army with support from District Administration at Shopian Batapora Stadium in South Kashmir, concluded on Sunday with a large number of people, mostly youths, participating in the event.

The Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, Sachin Kumar Vaishya and Commanding Officer 15 Garhwal Rifles Ashutosh Thapliyal inaugurated the festival by releasing pigeons in the air, reports ANI.

Speaking on occasion, Deputy Commissioner told the news agency that the aim of organizing such festivals is to connect people together, especially youth.

“The youth is the future of Kashmir. You also know that today people below 30 to 40 years want to see a peaceful Kashmir in the future. According to my experience over the last two years, people are pro-actively supporting the administration,” Shopian DC, Sachin Kumar Vaishya said.

“From these types of programs, the gap between youths and administration in Kashmir will be reduced. and will help to create a better environment,” he added.

Locals appreciated the event and one Nasir told ANI: "The people who participated in the event showed that the Shopian district is full of talent. Drug abuse in Kashmir valley is rising especially among youths, with these programs these cases can be reduced and the Valley can be saved."