Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 19: The grand finale of Toycathon 2024 exhibition, organised by Jammu & Kashmir State Council of Educational Research & Training (JKSCERT), concluded today at Abhinav Theatre, highlighting a vibrant amalgamation of tradition and innovation.
The event witnessed exceptional creativity and technological brilliance as participants showcased toys and games designed to integrate the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) with modern innovation.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary, School Education J&K. He visited every stall and interacted with the students.
Speaking at the event, Prof Parikshat Singh Manhas, Director JKSCERT, said that the Toycathon initiative is part of the larger mission to nurture innovation, promote critical thinking, and support the Prime Minister’s vision of “Vocal for Local.”
Toycathon 2024 attracted approximately 112,657 pupils from throughout Jammu and Kashmir, with 51,156 of them coming from the Jammu division. Participants competed in three categories: Category 1 (Classes 6-8), 30,549 students; Category 2 (Classes 9-10), 15,581 students; Category 3 (Classes 11-12), 5,026 students.
The jury for the grand finale comprised Controllers from the Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (CGPDTM), Kolkata, and two distinguished Judges from Jammu.
Hem Raj Pakhroo, Joint Director, JKSCERT, Central, enunciated that the toy designs of the young creators reflected how modern technology can breathe new life into traditional crafts and stories. Prof Sindhu Kapoor, Joint Director, JKSCERT, Jammu division, said that this initiative is a step towards fostering creativity and innovation while staying rooted in our cultural legacy.
The Grand finale featured a diverse range of projects, including toys inspired by J&K’s art, folklore, and nature, re imagined through the lens of advanced technology such as augmented reality and eco-friendly materials. The event served as a podium for innovators to collaborate and promote India’s toy industry on a national scale.
Rakesh Magotra, Project Director Samagra Shiksha; Ashok Kumar Sharma, Director School Education Jammu; Joint Director DSEJ, Subah Mehta, Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director, IGNCA, Harvinder Kour, Secretary Culture, Sanjeev Rana, Additional Secretary Culture and Dr Sudhir Singh, Director Academics JKBOSE also graced the occasion and inspired the participating students.
The winners of the competition will receive awards and recognition in a separate ceremony to be held later this month.
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