Tabinda Memorial Society felicitates essay competition winners in Handwara

Handwara, Nov 2: A felicitation ceremony was held at Environment Hall, Handwara, where the Tabinda Memorial Society, in collaboration with the National Book Trust, India (Ministry of Education, Government of India), honoured the winners of an essay writing competition and celebrated young innovative authors under the theme “Gift of Love for Innovative Authors.”

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, parents, and members of the media. The essay competition, held on October 26 featured three categories—school, senior secondary, and college level. The top three winners in each category were awarded cash prizes of ₹30,000, ₹25,000, and ₹20,000, respectively, while ten participants in every category received consolation prizes. Over 100 students were also presented with free books to foster reading habits and encourage creativity among the youth.

Renowned broadcaster Mohammad Hussain Zaffar, popularly known for his Radio Kashmir programme Sheherbeen, was the chief guest. In his address, he lauded the participants for their literary talent and urged the youth to make reading and writing a part of their personal and intellectual growth.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Mohammad Iqbal Shah (District Education Planning Officer, Kupwara), Rafi Ahmad Mir (Deputy CEO, Handwara), Manzoor Ahmad Bhat (former Principal, DIET Kupwara), Farooq Ahmad Malik (Ex-Deputy CEO and Trustee of the Society), Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, and Dr Shahida Shabnam (Tehsil Social Welfare Officer, Handwara). Educationists, intellectuals, and social activists, including Fayaz Ahmad Mir, Mehraj-ud-Din Zargar, Pervaiz Ahmad Sheikh, Dr Reyaz Tawheedi, Bashir Ahmad Qureshi, Rayees Masroor, and Arshid Mohi-ud-Din, also graced the occasion.

The proceedings began with a welcome address by Farooq Ahmad Malik, followed by an insightful keynote speech from Mohammad Iqbal Shah, who emphasised the role of literature in shaping young minds. Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, in his address, highlighted the importance of creativity and innovation in education. Dr Shahida Shabnam and other speakers commended the Society’s efforts in promoting academic excellence and a vibrant literary culture in north Kashmir.

A highlight of the event was the felicitation of veteran poet Ghulam Rasool Mir Dardpoori for his remarkable contribution to Kashmiri literature. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Rayees Masroor, who expressed gratitude to guests, participants, and media representatives. The programme was ably anchored by Nazir Ahmad Qureshi.

In their closing remarks, the organisers reiterated their commitment to fostering creativity, education, and intellectual engagement among students. They also announced the formation of a Science and Cultural Club to nurture scientific curiosity and artistic expression among the youth of Handwara.