Tabinda Memorial Society and National Book Trust India Honour Budding Writers, Academic Toppers in Ceremony Held at Handwara – Alfaaz – The Words

Aadil Akbar

Handwara: A grand felicitation ceremony was held on Sunday at Sheikh-ul-Alam Environment Hall, Handwara, to celebrate the winners of the essay writing competition jointly organised by the Tabinda Memorial Society and the National Book Trust (NBT) India, New Delhi.

The competition, held on October 26, 2025, drew enthusiastic participation from students across schools, higher secondary institutions, and colleges. Cash prizes of ₹30,000, ₹25,000, and ₹20,000 were awarded to the top three winners in the respective categories, while ten consolation prizes were presented to meritorious participants in each group.

In addition to essay competition winners, several young writers were felicitated with cash awards, and over 100 students received free books to encourage scientific and literary curiosity. Eminent Kashmiri poet Ghulam Rasool Mir Dardpori was specially honoured for his contributions to Kashmiri literature.

Renowned broadcaster Mohammad Hussain Zaffar presided over the event as Chief Guest, while the ceremony was attended by an impressive line-up of distinguished guests including Mohammad Iqbal Shah (DEPO Kupwara), Rafi Ahmad Mir (Deputy CEO Handwara), Manzoor Ahmad Bhat (Ex-Principal DIET Kupwara), Farooq Ahmad Malik (Ex-Dy CEO and Society Trustee), Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo (Motivational Speaker), and Prof. Dr. Shahida Shabnam (Tehsil Social Welfare Officer Handwara).

The gathering also featured several educationists, school heads, trade union leaders, and intellectuals including Dr. Reyaz Tawheedi, Bashir Ahmad Qureshi, Rayees Masroor, and Arshid Mohi-ud-Din, among others.

The proceedings began with a welcome address by Farooq Ahmad Malik, followed by a keynote by DEPO Mohammad Iqbal Shah, who underlined the importance of nurturing writing skills and creativity among students. In his presidential address, the Chief Guest Mohammad Hussain Zaffar praised the Society’s role in promoting academic excellence and cultural engagement in North Kashmir.

Prof. Tariq Ahmad Chalkoo inspired the audience with a motivational talk on innovation and self-expression, while Dr. Shahida Shabnam and senior trade union leaders appreciated the organisers for their sustained efforts in advancing education and social awareness.

Former Principal Manzoor Ahmad Bhat and Bashir Ahmad Shah (Retd. Master) also shared reflections on the region’s literary and educational progress.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by noted educationist and columnist Rayees Masroor, while the proceedings were ably conducted by Nazir Ahmad Qureshi.

The organisers extended gratitude to all guests, participants, and media representatives for their support. The Tabinda Memorial Society reaffirmed its dedication to fostering academic excellence and creativity among youth and announced the establishment of a Science and Cultural Club to further promote scientific curiosity and innovation in the region.