The Department of English organised a Literary Essay Writing and Presentation Competition to provide students with a platform to engage critically with literature, develop research-oriented thinking, and enhance their academic presentation skills. The competition aimed to encourage students to move beyond textual understanding and explore literature through the lenses of history, politics, gender, caste, class, trauma, feminism, and social justice.

The Principal of the College, Prof. Rakesh Pathania, graced the occasion with his presence. Appreciating the efforts of the Department of English, he described the competition as a meaningful academic initiative that encouraged students to read critically, think independently, and communicate their ideas with greater confidence. He further observed that such activities foster a spirit of research, creativity, and scholarly engagement among students.

The event was enriched by the presence of the esteemed judges—Prof. Harsha Rana, Dr. Monika Sharma, and Dr. Monika Makkar—whose scholarly insights and constructive feedback greatly benefited both the participants and the audience.

The students presented well-researched essays exploring diverse literary and socio-political themes. Their presentations reflected considerable intellectual curiosity and an emerging engagement with literary criticism. Particularly commendable was the effort of the B.A. II students, who are at an early stage of their engagement with literary theory, yet demonstrated the ability to approach complex themes through critical and analytical perspectives.

Katya Gurung (B.A. III) secured the first position, while Tanisha (B.A. II) secured the second position. Namoshi Zutshi and Hitarth Mohan Sood (B.A. II) jointly secured the third position.

The event was attended by Dr. Puja Sandal, Dr. Shelly Parul Bhadwal, and Dr. Arti Chandel, whose presence and support contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.

Addressing the participants, Dr. Arti Chandel congratulated the students on their enthusiastic participation and appreciated their efforts in presenting well-researched essays on a wide range of literary and socio-political themes.

Dr. Shelly Parul Bhadwal also congratulated the participants and remarked that it was a matter of pride to witness the students’ growing engagement with literary criticism and their ability to connect literary texts with larger historical, social, and contemporary concerns.

The competition concluded on a positive and encouraging note, with the students gaining valuable experience in research, critical thinking, academic presentation, and intellectual exchange.