Chinar Boat Race | 25 Nov 2024

Why in News?

Recently, the famous Chinar boat race 2024 was organised in Jammu and Kashmir’s Dal Lake by the Indian Army.

Key Points

  • About the Race:  
  • Winners and Awards: 
    • First Prize: Cash prize of Rs 10,000 and a trophy. 
    • Second Prize: Rs 7,500. 
    • Third Prize: Rs 5,000. 
    • Consolation Prizes: Distributed to the top 20 participants to recognise their efforts. 
  • Purpose and Message: 
    • The event celebrated the rich culture and tradition of Kashmir. 
    • It highlighted the importance of protecting Kashmir’s water bodies, especially Dal Lake. 
    • Fostered a sense of community through traditional sports, promoting ecological health. 
  • Army's Role in J&K: 
    • The Indian Army continues to organise sports and cultural events to strengthen ties with the local population. 
    • Such events inspire local youth to pursue honourable professions, including joining the Army.

Dal Lake

  • It is a lake in Srinagar, the capital of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). 
  • It is one of the world's largest natural lakes and the second largest lake in J&K. 
  • It is integral to tourism and recreation in Kashmir and is named the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir” or “Srinagar’s Jewel”. 
  • It is also an important source for commercial operations in fishing and water plant harvesting. 
  • It covers an area of 18 square kilometres and is part of a natural wetland including its floating gardens. 
    • The floating gardens, known as “Raad” in Kashmiri, blossom with lotus flowers during July and August.

Chinar Tree

  • About: 
    • The Chinar, also known as the Oriental plane, is a large, deciduous tree that is native to the Western Himalayas and is a symbol of Kashmir. 
    • It is an important part of Kashmiri culture and tradition. There is a Chinar tree in almost every village in Kashmir, and the oldest Chinar in Kashmir is over 600 years old. 
  • Appearance: 
    • The Chinar tree has maple-like leaves that are deep green in the summer and change to red, amber, and yellow in the fall. It has a spreading crown and flaking bark.  
  • Uses: 
    • The leaves and bark  of Chinar are used for medicinal purposes.  
    • The wood, also known as lacewood, is used to make fine furniture.  
    • Twigs and roots are used to make fabric dye.