Baramulla: In a distinguished ceremony at Thimayya Hall, the inaugural Shaan-e-Varmul Awards honored individuals for exceptional contributions to the community across various sectors.
The awardees were selected through a comprehensive nomination and voting process involving over 13,000 citizens, culminating in a meticulous verification by an esteemed panel across eleven significant categories.
Cultural Preservation: Nassar Ahmad Shah, known by his pen name “Nisar Azam,” from Dangiwacha, was recognized for his efforts in cultural preservation. His poetry collection, “Patte Lazi Zoon Daras,” earned him the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar in 2011.
Entrepreneurship: Mehak Khursheed from Salamabad, Uri, the first female baker-chef from Baramulla District, was honored for promoting entrepreneurship by training women in baking across regions from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, empowering them towards self-dependence.
Philanthropy: Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat, a well-known industrialist from Baramulla, was felicitated for his significant contributions to society and social responsibility.
Tourism and Adventure Sports: Renu Bamrara, Assistant Director at the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM), Gulmarg, was honored for her contributions to tourism and adventure sports in Gulmarg.
Science and Technology: Innovators Sheikh Anzar Amin of Fatehgarh and Shahida Bano were recognized for their technological advancements. Amin developed an automatic gas regulator based on a toxic gas detection system, addressing winter gas heater-related fatalities in Kashmir, while Bano invented the Smart-Key with a fingerprint sensor.
Education: Father Suresh Britto, Principal of St. Joseph’s School, was acknowledged for providing holistic development to over 12,000 students and enhancing teaching skills among educators.
Bravery: Young Momin Mehraj from Baramulla was awarded for his courageous act during a devastating fire in Sumarwan village, where he saved multiple lives.
Sports: Snowbar Akhter was recognized for her achievements in martial arts, having secured over ten medals, including national-level accolades in Wushu and Pencak Silat.
Healthcare: Dr. Sarabjit Singh Chhibber, a renowned neurologist from Baramulla, was honored for sponsoring more than 13 free medical camps in rural areas and conducting free high-cost surgeries for the underprivileged, significantly contributing to healthcare in the region.
Environmental Conservation: Internationally acclaimed wildlife photographer and conservationist Mr. Dhritiman Mukherjee was recognized for his efforts in conserving the rare Markhor species in Baramulla, aiding in maintaining the region’s ecological balance.
The ceremony, organized by the Dagger Division of Chinar Corps on Army Day, was attended by dignitaries, achievers, and citizens, reflecting Baramulla’s spirit of unity and the pivotal role of community engagement in fostering development. A captivating performance by the Chinar YUVA cultural group showcased Baramulla’s rich cultural heritage.
The Shaan-e-Varmul Awards aim to honor selfless service, dedication, and perseverance, inspiring others to contribute to the community’s growth and fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents. The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to encourage community development, and cross-sector collaboration, and inspire others to contribute to Baramulla’s progress.
As the event concluded, the atmosphere was filled with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose, setting the tone for future progress and development in Baramulla. The awardees’ stories highlighted that every individual can contribute to the greater good, encouraging the younger generation to draw inspiration from these local heroes and participate in driving social, cultural, and economic growth.
