Handwara, Nov 2:A grand felicitation programme was held at Environment Hall Handwara by Tabinda Memorial Society in collaboration with the National Book Trust (NBT), India, New Delhi, to honour the toppers of the essay writing competition conducted on October 26, 2025.
The event witnessed overwhelming participation from students, parents, teachers, school heads, and members of the media fraternity. The essay competition was held in three categories school, senior secondary, and college levels and the toppers were awarded cash prizes of ₹30,000, ₹25,000, and ₹20,000, respectively. Ten consolation prizes were also given in each category to encourage young writers.
Apart from the essay winners, several budding writers were felicitated with special cash awards, while over 100 students received free books to promote scientific and mathematical thinking among youth. Prominent Kashmiri poet Ghulam Rasool Mir Dardpoori was also honoured for his outstanding literary contributions.
The event was graced by Mohammad Hussain Zaffar, a renowned broadcaster, as the Chief Guest. Among the dignitaries present were Mohammad Iqbal Shah (District Education Planning Officer Kupwara), Rafi Ahmad Mir (Dy CEO Handwara), Manzoor Ahmad Bhat (Ex-Principal DIET Kupwara), Farooq Ahmad Malik (Ex-Dy CEO and Trustee of the Society), Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo, Prof. Dr. Shahida Shabnam, and several Principals, ZEOs, Headmasters, and trade union leaders including Fayaz Ahmad Mir, Mehraj-ud-Din Zargar, and Pervaiz Ahmad Sheikh.
The function commenced with a welcome address by Farooq Ahmad Malik, followed by a keynote speech by Mohammad Iqbal Shah, who highlighted the purpose and educational impact of the event. The presidential address was delivered by Chief Guest Mohammad Hussain Zaffar, who praised the society’s consistent efforts in encouraging academic and creative excellence.
Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo delivered an inspiring motivational talk focused on innovation and creativity, while Dr Shahida Shabnam and several senior trade union leaders lauded the organisers for promoting education, literature, and social awareness in the region. Manzoor Ahmad Bhat and Bashir Ahmad Shah shared their insightful reflections on nurturing intellectual culture among students.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Rayees Masroor, noted educationist and columnist, while proceedings were smoothly anchored by Nazir Ahmad Qureshi.
The organisers expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, participants, and media representatives for their support and cooperation. The Tabinda Memorial Society reaffirmed its commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and academic excellence among the youth. A special announcement was also made about the establishment of a Science and Cultural Club aimed at nurturing scientific curiosity and promoting cultural engagement among students.
Comment List