Examiner News Desk | Srinagar:
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday attended the “Lal Ded National Award Ceremony” in Srinagar, where he emphasised the importance of women empowerment, gender equality and inclusive nation-building.
The prestigious award ceremony was organised by Sarhad to honour distinguished women achievers for their contributions in diverse fields including literature, education, social service and cultural preservation.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the women honoured with the Lal Ded National Award had achieved remarkable milestones in their respective domains and contributed significantly towards shaping society.
He said the spiritual and philosophical legacy of mystic saint Lal Ded continues to inspire generations and preserve the nation’s cultural and moral values.
“The blessings of saints like Lal Ded have nurtured and preserved the nation’s vision, arts, literature, music, folk traditions and spiritual wisdom,” Sinha said.
Highlighting the role of women in social transformation, the Lieutenant Governor said women empowerment must remain a top priority for both society and government.
“We must also prioritise women in innovation and entrepreneurship so that enterprises led by them become stronger,” he said.
Sinha observed that Lal Ded’s philosophy of compassion, truth and morality holds immense relevance in today’s world and can serve as a guiding force for building a peaceful, inclusive and harmonious global society.
“Lal Ded’s life teaches us that no matter how great the challenge, inner strength, faith and courage can transform adversity into opportunities for growth and learning,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor further remarked that women represent sacrifice, compassion and equality, and stressed the collective responsibility of society to ensure full rights and opportunities for women.
“I believe gender equality is a call for men to stand shoulder to shoulder with women as partners and allies in building a just society and a developed India,” he said.
He added that women continue to play a vital role in nation-building, with their contributions visible across every sphere of life.
During the ceremony, the prestigious awards were conferred upon noted Kashmiri poet Bimla Raina, Sahitya Akademi Award-winning poet Naseem Shafaie, scholar and Rajbhasha expert Sakina Akhtar, and Syed Darakhshan Andrabi.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to eminent writer, academician and translator Neerja Mattoo.
Among those present at the event were Vijaya K. Rahatkar, educationist Vijay Dhar, Sanjay Nahar, Sushma Nahar, senior officials, members of the Sarhad Foundation and prominent citizens from various walks of life.
