Young achievers from Jammu and Kashmir who have made significant contributions to social service, youth empowerment and community development were honoured during the UT Foundation Day and National Unity Day celebrations held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar. The recognition ceremony, held in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, celebrated the dedication and achievements of young individuals working towards positive social change and community welfare across the Union Territory. Among those recognised was Aneeqa Nazir, who expressed gratitude for being honoured as one of the Young Achievers of 2026. She acknowledged the opportunities that enabled her to work closely with communities across Jammu and Kashmir and contribute towards meaningful social change. Speaking about the development journey of Jammu and Kashmir, she emphasised that administrative or structural changes should never hinder the pace of growth and development. She appreciated the accelerated development witnessed in the Union Territory over the past seven years under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Highlighting her organisation’s initiatives, she said that her team had been actively working with communities on youth and women empowerment, skill development and drug de-addiction. The organisation, Save Youth Save Future Foundation, has collaborated with OSDC on skill development initiatives and worked with the European Union on programmes focused on youth and women’s development. She also highlighted the organisation’s contribution to the 100-day drug-free campaign launched by the Jammu and Kashmir administration, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in addressing substance abuse and safeguarding the future of young people. She appreciated the support extended by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, stating that the opportunities provided by the administration enable voluntary organisations and young changemakers to actively participate in community development initiatives. Expressing gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for encouraging positive initiatives, she said the recognition would motivate her to pursue new endeavours and continue working towards social welfare. The honour highlights the growing role of youth-led organisations, community participation and grassroots initiatives in strengthening society. Such recognition also encourages young people across Jammu and Kashmir to take an active role in building a progressive, inclusive and empowered Union Territory.
