jj correspondent
Srinagar: In a grand and solemn ceremony held at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar Campus, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Manoj Sinha, presided over a commemorative event marking the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the legendary Iron Man of India.
The event, organized by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with the National NGO Bharat Bharati, was themed “Unity in Diversity – Celebrating Cultures, Connecting Hearts.” It served as a platform to honour distinguished citizens of Kashmir who have made outstanding contributions to public service, social welfare, and cultural enrichment.
Conservator of Forests Honoured for Environmental Leadership: Among the prominent awardees was Mr Irfan Ali Shah, Conservator of Forests (North Kashmir), J&K Forest Department and a noted Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer, who was conferred with a Certificate of Appreciation by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor. The accolade recognized his exemplary dedication to environmental protection, afforestation, and forest conservation, as well as his sustained contribution to public and social service across the region.
In addition to Mr Shah, several other eminent personalities were honoured, including celebrated Santoor maestro Abhay Sopori, Advocate Sibghat Rahim, Dr.Satinder Singh Kala (Additional Advocate General, J&K High Court), renowned physician Dr.Latif Khan, Advocate Umar Rashid, Mr Ajay Gupta, and senior journalist Mr Manzoor Anjum. Each was recognized for selfless service and dedication to the cause of social betterment.
LG Sinha Praises Bharat Bharati’s Efforts in Promoting National Unity: In his keynote address, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha lauded the awardees for their outstanding commitment to public service, stating that their life and work truly embodied the patriotic spirit of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
“Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s vision of a united and integrated India remains our guiding light,” the LG remarked. “This celebration, held on the 150th anniversary of his birth, is a reminder that his ideals of unity, perseverance, and public service are alive in the hearts of every citizen-be they forest officers, doctors, lawyers, or artists.”
Each awardee received a brass memento bearing the image of Sardar Patel, symbolizing strength, integrity, and national cohesion.
The Lieutenant Governor extended special appreciation to Bharat Bharati for its tireless commitment to cultural unity and national integration, praising its role in organizing such events across Jammu and Kashmir. He also conveyed heartfelt gratitude to Jagannath Kunjbihari, National Organising Secretary of Bharat Bharati, and Mr Irfan Ahmad, Prabhari North India Bharat Bharati, former Member, Haj Committee of India, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the programme.
Distinguished Gathering Echoes Message of Unity and Service: The ceremony was graced by a large and distinguished gathering that included Dr. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Dr. Sajad Ahmad Gangoo (Dean Students’ Welfare), Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, senior bureaucrats, entrepreneurs, members of the medical and engineering fraternity, academicians, lawyers, students, and media representatives.
Notable participation also came from civil society and environmental groups, including Rahim Foundation (Sopore), Gauhar Foundation, PEACE Foundation (Kulgam), alongside representatives from the National NGO Bharat Bharati RSS.
The diverse representation from academia, administration, civil society, and professional sectors highlighted the central theme of the day-bringing together different sections of society to build a stronger, more united, and prosperous India.
A Tribute to the Iron Man of India: The grand event at SKUAST-K stood as a fitting tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, celebrating his unwavering spirit of unity and service. As the proceedings concluded amidst patriotic fervour, the collaboration between the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and Bharat Bharti reaffirmed a shared national resolve-to carry forward the timeless ideals of integrity, inclusivity, and collective progress that Patel envisioned for the nation.
LG, Bharat Bharati Celebrate Sardar Patel’s Legacy; Several prominent persons awarded at Grand SKUAST-K Ceremony
