Srinagar , October 13,2026-Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Armed Police, Kashmir, Nitish Kumar, inaugurated Jashn-e-Dal 2026, a festival organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Police at Dal Lake, one of Srinagar’s best-known landmarks.
The event is part of a series of sports and recreational activities that the police have been organising to engage young people in positive pursuits.
A festival on the shores of Dal Lake
Jashn-e-Dal is being held at Dal Lake, which draws tourists and residents throughout the year. The festival is expected to bring people together for cultural and recreational activities against the backdrop of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
The police announced the event earlier this month. Speaking to reporters after flagging off the Kashmir Marathon 2026, titled “Run for Unity”, ADGP Kumar described Jashn-e-Dal as the most anticipated of the upcoming events. He had also mentioned a cycle race and a water sports event on Dal Lake as part of the programme.
Police outreach through sports
The J&K Police have been organising sports and public events in recent weeks, including the Kashmir Marathon. ADGP Kumar said the response to the marathon had exceeded expectations, with participants from different sections of society, as well as runners from outside Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the police would continue to hold such activities to involve youth in sports and other constructive pursuits. Events of this kind give young people a platform to channel their energy and talent, and they help build trust between the police and the community.
Message against substance abuse
At the marathon, the ADGP also spoke about substance abuse, saying drugs and alcohol are among the major sources of addiction in society. Sports and community events are often promoted as a way to keep young people away from drugs, and the police have linked such activities to this wider effort.
Boost for tourism and local livelihoods
Dal Lake is central to Kashmir’s tourism economy. Houseboat owners, shikara operators, shopkeepers, handicraft sellers and restaurant owners around the lake depend on visitors for their livelihoods.
A festival on the lake can bring added footfall and attention at a time when the Valley is preparing for the autumn and winter tourist seasons. Local stakeholders generally welcome events that showcase the lake and its surroundings.
What visitors can expect
Festivals of this kind typically include cultural performances, music, local food and handicraft stalls, and recreational activities. Visitors are advised to follow instructions from the organisers and the police, use designated entry and parking arrangements, and keep the lake and its surroundings clean.
Residents and visitors should also check official announcements for the festival schedule and any traffic advisories issued by the Srinagar Traffic Police.
Community participation
The success of events like Jashn-e-Dal depends on public participation. Families, students, artists and local businesses all play a role in making such festivals lively and memorable.
By holding the event at Dal Lake, the organisers aim to put the spotlight on the Valley’s culture and hospitality while giving residents a place to gather and celebrate.
Outlook
With the marathon complete and Jashn-e-Dal now under way, attention turns to the other events the police have promised, including the cycle race and the water sports programme on Dal Lake.
For the organisers, the aim is clear: to use sport, culture and public celebration to bring communities together and give young people constructive opportunities.
