SRINAGAR: Nehal Zubair, a rising star from Shopian, Jammu and Kashmir, has brought glory to India by winning a silver medal at the prestigious 5th Junior World Pencak Silat Championship 2024, held at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi from December 18 to 22. Competing against the world’s top young athletes, Nehal’s extraordinary performance showcased her dedication, skill, and determination, solidifying her position as one of India’s brightest prospects in the sport of Pencak Silat.

This silver medal marks a landmark achievement for Indian Pencak Silat, highlighting the growing prominence of the sport in the country. Nehal’s exceptional journey from Shopian to the global stage is a testament to her relentless hard work and the support she has received along the way. Expressing his pride, Mohammad Iqbal, coach of the Indian Pencak Silat Federation, said: “Nehal’s silver medal is a momentous occasion for Indian sports. Her dedication and passion for Pencak Silat are truly commendable. This achievement will inspire many young athletes to take up the sport and aim for excellence.”

The championship drew participants from around the globe, making Nehal’s victory even more significant. Her achievement has been widely celebrated across India, with top officials and sports administrators applauding her success. Shri Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary to the Government for Youth Services and Sports, J&K, congratulated Nehal, saying: “This is a proud moment not just for Shopian or Jammu and Kashmir, but for the entire nation. Nehal’s accomplishment will inspire countless young athletes to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.”

Ms. Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, also extended her heartfelt congratulations and reiterated the council’s commitment to supporting young athletes in the region. The J&K Sports Council played a vital role in sponsoring the Indian team’s participation in the championship, enabling athletes like Nehal to compete on a global platform. Their support underscores the importance of nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to excel in international arenas.

Nehal Zubair’s achievement is a beacon of hope and inspiration for young athletes across the country. Her success in Abu Dhabi is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for the nation. As Pencak Silat continues to gain recognition in India, Nehal’s journey serves as a powerful example of what can be accomplished with hard work and determination. As she returns home with her silver medal, Nehal carries the hopes and dreams of a new generation of Indian athletes eager to follow in her footsteps.

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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