DEHRADUN: From the far reaches of north Kashmir to the roar of a national arena, Kupwara lived a moment it will remember for generations. At the All India Pencak Silat Championship 2025–26, held in Dehradun, Uttarakhand from 29th to 31st January, two young athletes turned years of struggle into symbols of hope—Zakir Hussain Wani winning Gold and Sozan Nazir claiming Silver for Kupwara.

Zakir’s Gold, Forged in Grit

Hailing from Batergam, Kupwara, Zakir Hussain Wani walked onto the mat carrying more than ambition—he carried the weight of a region often unseen. Bout after bout, he fought with fierce clarity: clean strikes, fearless counters, and unbreakable composure. When the final whistle blew, gold was not just around his neck; it was etched into Kupwara’s story.

Sozan’s Silver, Strong as Steel

Sozan Nazir’s run was a portrait of courage. Against seasoned opponents, he stood tall—absorbing pressure, adapting tactically, and refusing to yield. His silver medal shines with resolve, proving that Kupwara’s son's are rising with power and purpose.

One Coach. Two Champions. A Movement

What binds these victories together is mentorship. Both Zakir and Sozan are students of renowned coach Aadil Manzoor Peer—an international medalist whose relentless grassroots work has quietly built champions where resources are scarce but dreams are vast. Under his guidance, the athletes were shaped with discipline, mental toughness, and belief. These medals echo his vision: talent from the margins deserves the main stage.

As news spread, celebrations erupted across Kupwara. For families, coaches, and young aspirants, this was more than sport—it was validation. Proof that dedication can outpace disadvantage; that with the right guidance, destiny can be rewritten.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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