Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
PAU celebrates International Youth Day with book launch and creative competitions
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana, August 13, 2024 – Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) celebrated International Youth Day with a series of events, including the launch of a new book titled Beyond Boundaries: Expanding Horizons of Youth Well-Being and vibrant student competitions in poster-making and poetry.
The day’s celebrations were led by PAU Vice-Chancellor Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, who served as the Chief Guest.
In his address, Dr Gosal officially launched the book authored by Gulneet Chahal, Assistant Director of Publications, and Dr Tejinder Singh Riar, Additional Director of Communication.
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing holistic health as a foundation for success in academics, sports, and careers.Dr. Gosal commended the authors for their dedication to promoting youth well-being and highlighted the immense potential of the digital era in empowering young people.
He also stressed the need for resilience, self-control, and healthy lifestyles in today’s fast-paced world. Congratulating the students on International Youth Day, Dr. Gosal proudly shared PAU's top ranking in the NIRF among agricultural universities and its recognition as the best clean and green campus, attributing these achievements to the cooperation and commitment of the university's students.
Dr. Nirmal Jaura, Director of Students Welfare, also congratulated the students on International Youth Day and announced that two of the university’s talented students will participate in the Independence Day parade in New Delhi.
He praised the book’s timely release, noting that India, as the world’s youngest country, stands at a critical juncture. Dr. Jaura lauded the scientific approach of Beyond Boundaries, emphasizing the importance of credible science in daily well-being practices, and urged both students and faculty to apply the book's science-based tools to transform their lives and achieve their goals.
Author Gulneet Chahal drew from her extensive experience as a health coach and counsellor to explain that Beyond Boundaries goes beyond theory, offering real-life case studies from PAU’s Life Coping Skills course, which she launched in 2011.
She highlighted the case of a senior teacher whose unresolved trauma led to severe anxiety and health issues, illustrating that stress is not just a mental problem but has deep physical effects that require a holistic approach.
Chahal also challenged the common belief that positive thinking alone is enough to create lasting change, stressing that it must be supported by practical strategies like proper sleep, diet, exercise, and hydration.
She underscored how these daily habits profoundly impact our lives and explained that the book empowers readers to combine mindset with actionable steps for true well-being and long-term success.
Dr. Tejinder Singh Riar, the book's co-author, encouraged students to shift their perceptions of stress, viewing it positively and focusing on what they can control while ignoring external judgments.
He stressed the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with extreme stress and urged students to explore the book for a deeper understanding of the science behind drug and alcohol addiction, as well as the role of dopamine in shaping behaviours and mood.
Dr Riar explained that the book offers practical strategies for harnessing brain chemistry to achieve a natural high in life, promoting healthy, sustainable ways to experience joy and fulfilment.
The event also featured a beautifully compiled poetry reading by Dr. Devinder Dilroop, showcasing the dreams and determination of PAU's youth. Dr. Dilroop congratulated the young participants and motivated them to continue looking ahead with confidence.
Dr. Rupinder Kaur, Associate Director of Culture, highlighted the significance of observing International Youth Day as a tribute to the younger generation's enthusiasm. She also spoke about the book’s role in fostering a resilient campus environment where healthy competition and individual well-being thrive together.
The celebration of International Youth Day at PAU was a memorable occasion. Deans, Directors, university officers, faculty, and students attended, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the PAU community. Dr Vishal Bector coordinated the event.