The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced its prestigious State Awards on the occasion of Republic Day 2025. This year’s awards recognize exceptional contributions in diverse fields, including bravery, literature, performing arts, social reforms, public service, and more.These accolades, accompanied by cash prizes and citations, honor individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievements and commitment to the community. Each awardee will receive a cash prize of ₹51,000 and a citation for their extraordinary contributions.

5 VDGs, Dogri Writer Prakash Premi, Three JKAS Officers Among State Awardees

Awards for Bravery

Acknowledging acts of courage, the state honored five Village Defence Guards (VDGs) from Doda district:

• Chahal Singh
• Mohinder Singh
• Ravi Kumar
• Bittu Ram
• Sanghar Singh

Awards for Literature

The awards for contributions to literature celebrated the work of writers and translators in multiple languages, including Dogri, Hindi, and Kashmiri. Honorees include:

• Raj Kumar Sharma (Raj Rahi) – From Nai Basti, Reasi.
• Prakash Chander Sharma (Prakash Premi) – A renowned Dogri writer from Dhar Road, Udhampur.
• Manshoor Banihali (Abdul Gani Giri) – A writer and translator from Ramban.
• Dr. Farooq Fayaz – A celebrated translator from Nowgam, Srinagar.
• Kulbushan Mahotra – A Hindi writer from Kathua.
• Surinder Kour (Neer) – A prominent writer/translator from Jammu.
• Gulab-ud-Din Tahir – A playwright and contributor from Baramulla.

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Awards for Performing Arts

Performing arts awards highlighted achievements in music, theater, and acting. Notable recipients include:

• Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan – A theater stalwart from Srinagar.
• Dr. Shazia Hamid – A musician from Zainakadal, Srinagar.
• Kaiser Nizami – Renowned singer and composer.
• Gulzar Ahmad Bhat – A Kashmiri folk artist.
• Sonali Dogra – A celebrated singer.
• Mukesh Reshi – An actor with remarkable contributions.
• Zameer Ashai – A prominent TV, radio, and film actor.
• Mayank Raina – A singer with exceptional talent.
• Samridhi Sen – A young singing sensation from Kishtwar.

Awards for Arts and Crafts

The Jammu and Kashmir government acknowledged remarkable craftsmanship, awarding individuals like:

• Mukhtar Ahmad Bhat – From Beerwah, Budgam.
• Mushtaq Ahmad Khan – A Srinagar-based artisan.
• Anil Paba – An archaeologist and social activist from Udhampur.
• Suresh Kumar Abrol – Director of Manuscripts Conservation Centre, Jammu.

Awards for Social Reforms and Empowerment

Individuals and organizations driving social change were recognized, including:

• Itinderpal Singh Bali – From Baramulla.
• Save Youth Save Future Foundation – Led by Wajahat Farooq Bhat.
• Preeti Choudhary – A social worker from Jammu.
• Ram Sevak Sharma – A principal and activist from Kishtwar.
• Dr. Abdul Majid Ganai – A psychiatrist from Srinagar.
• Mohammad Asad Nomani – From Poonch.

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Awards for Meritorious Public Service

Public servants contributing to governance and development received accolades, such as:

• Shabnam Kamili, JKAS
• Kishore Singh Chib, JKAS
• Haris Ahmad Handoo, JKAS
• Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah – Principal/Dean of GMC, Srinagar.
• Prof. Shakil Ahmad Romshoo – Vice Chancellor of Islamic University of Science and Technology.
• Dr. Anjum Andrabi – Assistant Director of HADP.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award was conferred on Ishwar Das Soni, a retired Deputy Director of the Department of School Education, for his unparalleled service.

Awards for Outstanding Sports Persons

Athletes who brought laurels to the state included:

• Tarun Gandotra – Roller skating and inline hockey.
• Rudhrakash Khanna – Gymnastics.
• Riya Bakshi – Fencing.
• Abdul Samad – Cricket.
• Ulfat Banu – Football.
• Jasiya Akhter – Cricket.

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Awards for Media Excellence

Journalists making significant contributions were honored, such as:

• Pooja Shali – India Today.
• Hafiz Ayaz Gani – Rising Kashmir.
• Binoo Joshi – JK News Today.
• Asha Sarmal – Gulistan News.
• Yehya Sultan – News 18.
• Rahil Gupta – Cross Town News.
• Komal Singh Manhas – Bureau Chief, News 18.

Award for Environmental Excellence

The award for environmental contributions was given to Arif Shafi Wani, a writer known for his environmental advocacy.

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These awards reflect the diverse talent and commitment of individuals across Jammu and Kashmir, reinforcing the region’s rich cultural, artistic, and professional heritage. The recognition serves as an inspiration for many to continue their exceptional efforts in various fields.