By Manjiri Joshi,News18,Tejinder Singh Sodhi

Copyright news18

In the wake of the devastating floods that hit the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir this year, News18 Jammu Kashmir Ladakh Himachal (News18JKLH) launched a powerful campaign titled ‘Hamari Pahunch, Aapki Taqat’ (Our Reach, Your Strength).
The initiative gave voice to the plight of affected families, amplified their concerns, and ensured that help reached those in need.
Through extensive ground reporting, appeals to authorities, and a dedicated helpline for distressed citizens, the campaign turned into a lifeline for many. It received widespread appreciation, as countless individuals, civil society groups, and institutions stepped forward to provide relief.
On Saturday, September 27, as the campaign culminated, ..
LG Manoj Sinha felicitates heroes of J&K
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha graced the ceremony as Chief Guest and lauded the contributions of those who worked tirelessly during the floods.
“For Viksit Bharat and rapid growth, we must maintain ecological integrity and economic integrity. Securing biodiversity should become a national mission, and all sections of society must work together for protection, restoration, and regeneration of natural resources,” the LG said.
He hailed the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), J&K Police personnel, NGOs, and civil administration officials for their “exceptional and selfless service” during the catastrophe.
“These heroes offered hope and aid in the face of destruction. The Pride of J&K Awards recognises their courage under extremely dangerous circumstances. This initiative by News18JKLH will also inspire citizens to actively engage in community development,” the LG added.
Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to Jammu and Kashmir’s recovery, he said, “Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government of India is firmly committed to speedily revive development momentum and restore normalcy.”
He also reiterated a strong stand against terrorism and separatism. “The ecosystem of separatist elements is now breathing its last. Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and all security agencies have been given free hand to decisively crush the terrorists and their sympathisers.”
Acknowledging courage across sectors
The event was attended by Brajesh Kumar Singh, Group Editor-Convergence, Network18; Tejinder Singh Sodhi, Senior Editor, Network18; Rajiv Kamal, Editor, News18JKLH; senior Army, civil, and police officials; NGO representatives; and prominent citizens from various walks of life.
At the ceremony, 30 awardees — spanning administration, armed forces, health, education, civil society, and business — were felicitated with the title of “Pride of Jammu and Kashmir.”
Among those honoured were:
Ramesh Kumar (IAS), Divisional Commissioner Jammu — for leading seamless rescue and relief operations in the Jammu region.
Anshul Garg (IAS), Divisional Commissioner Kashmir — for ensuring uninterrupted supplies and effective flood response across Kashmir.
Saloni Rai (IAS), Deputy Commissioner Udhampur — for swift rehabilitation and road restoration after flash floods and landslides.
Pankaj Kumar Sharma (IAS), Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar — for exemplary leadership after the catastrophic Chishoti cloudburst tragedy.
J&K Bank, led by MD Amitava Chatterjee — for mobilising emergency funds and financial support for affected families.
Army units 17 Rashtriya Rifles & 235 Engineering Regiment — for life-saving rescue, relief, and infrastructure restoration.
District Administrations of Baramulla, Srinagar, Anantnag, Kathua, and Jammu — for hands-on flood response and community protection.
Healthcare leaders like Dr. Shakeel ur Rehman (Kashmir Clinics Central), Dr. Ashutosh Gupta (Principal GMC Jammu), and Dr. KD Singh (KD Group of Hospitals) — for ensuring uninterrupted medical care.
Civil society contributors including Biral Open Minds International School, Buzzing Bytes Jammu, Pashmkaar Handicrafts, Madras Cloth House, Rotary Club Kashmir, and Save Youth Save Future Foundation — for mobilising aid and community support.
Officers like SSP Zahid Manhas (SDRF), AEE Nitin Mahajan (JPDCL), and JE Kaushal Parihar (PMGSY, Kishtwar) — for maintaining critical services and leading rescue efforts in the toughest conditions.
Police heroes felicitated
One of the most emotional moments of the evening came when frontline police officers — who braved hazardous conditions to safeguard lives and property during the floods — were honoured. From maintaining law and order to personally leading rescue efforts, these officers embodied courage and duty.
Those recognised included:
Showkat Ahmad Dar, SP North.
Junaid Wali, DySP SDPO MR Gunj.
Shabir Ahmed Khan, SP City South Srinagar.
Dheeraj Kumar, SDPO Shaheedgunj.
Mir Gafoor, SDPO Saddar.
SP Imtiaz Ahmed (JKPS), SP West Srinagar.
DySP Zohaib Hassan (JKPS), SDPO Panthachowk.
Raja Majid Batt, DySP SDPO Awantipora.
Insp. Kushab Michael, SHO Qaimoh.
Insp. Majid Hassan, SHO Anantnag.
PSI Rayees Ahmad Bhat, DO Frisal.
Their recognition drew loud applause, as the audience saluted their unwavering commitment to public service in the face of adversity.
Symbol of hope and resilience
The Pride of Jammu and Kashmir Awards not only celebrated institutional and administrative leadership but also saluted the collective spirit of society. From civil servants to grassroots volunteers, every awardee symbolised resilience, compassion, and courage in the face of adversity.
The LG concluded by saluting the awardees, saying: “These honoured warriors of service are an inspiration for all of us. May there always be hard work in your right hand, and victory in your left.”