Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, July 30: The Jammu Kashmir Rural Development Society (JKRDS) celebrated ‘Annual Parents Day- 2024′ with a vibrant ceremony at Tagore Hall, here today.
The event was a heartfelt tribute to all affectionate parents and commemoration of their enduring love and sacrifice. Distinguished social personalities were honoured on the occasion. The students from various schools of the Kashmir Valley, showcased cultural performances, participated in debate on the theme “My Heritage, My Pride”.
Highlights of the event included the posthumous presentation of the prestigious Alamdar-e-Kashmir Award 2024 to eminent writer and poet, Late Sultan-ul-Haque Shaheedi for his immense contribution to literary world; Laxmi Dutta received the ‘Madr-e-Meharban Award- 2024’ for her contributions as a social worker and educationist, while Ghulam Rasool Sofi, former Information Commissioner, was honored with the ‘Budshah Award- 2024’, for his integrity in public service; the ‘Habba Khatoon Award- 2024’ was presented to Dr Bilquees Jameela, renowned Gynecologist for her extraordinary contribution in Medical field, the `Mother Teresa Award- 2024′ was presented to Father Robert Yesudeep for his outstanding philanthropic activities, and `Khatija Begum Award- 2024′ was received by Amir Hussain Lone for his achievements in Para Cricket, and inspiring role as an armless cricketer.
JKRDS presented the prestigious `Lal Ded Award- 2024′ to renowned Journalist, Sanam Aijaz for creating awareness on critical social issues and ‘Baba Jittoo Award’ was presented to Prof (Dr) Jag Paul Sharma, former Registrar , Director Research, Dean Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST- Jammu in recognition of his outstanding contributions in Agriculture sector.
In the debate competition themed “My Heritage, My Pride”, Munaza from Allama Iqbal School secured the first position, Aroush Khan from GD Goenka School Baramulla, second and Ansaar from Al Noor School, Danamazar, Safakadal, third position. Women College, MA Road, Srinagar was awarded for best cultural awareness program (Cultural Skit/Drama). Ibadullah from BHSS Nawakadal was awarded `Best Naat’ at the event. Consolation prizes were also distributed among the other commendable participants.
The Life Time Achievement Awards were presented to Late Ghulam Qadir Nihami (Qadir Gul) posthumously and 103- years- old social activist from Chadoora, Ghulam Mohammad Shah.
Former Minister, Dr Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, who was the chief guest, appreciated the role of civil society in J&K and praised JKRDS for its initiatives in raising awareness and combating social evils in the society. He commended the awardees and student achievers, offering guidance for a prosperous future.
Speaking at the occasion, Chairman JKRDS and former Speaker of J&K Legislative Assembly, Mubarak Gul underscored JKRDS’s commitment to preserving the rich heritage of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, urging students to uphold societal values.
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