Kathua, August 15: Winners from District Kathua in various competitions organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K, were felicitated by Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science & Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports and ARI & Trainings,Satish Sharma, during the Independence Day celebrations at Sports Stadium Kathua.

In the Painting Competition, Kanwalnain Kaur secured the first position, followed by Abhinav Sharma and Veenakshi at second and third positions, respectively. 

In the National Anthem Competition (13–18 years, Individual Category), Sanchit Dalotra, Sidarath Sangral and Simran Rajwal secured first, second and third positions, respectively. 

In the National Anthem Competition (Above 18 years, Individual Category), Neelam Kumari bagged the first position, while Dheeraj Kumar and Prianka secured second and third positions. 

In the National Anthem Competition (Group Category), Vikram of Santosh Music & Dance Coaching Institute, Kathua, secured the first position, followed by Learning Temple High School at second position and Manu Shiksha Kendra Higher Secondary School, Rajbagh, at third position. 

In the Essay Writing Competition, Avasyu Gupta secured first position, Chahat Devi second and Mehul Jasrotha third.

The Minister congratulated all the winners and appreciated their talent, creativity and patriotic spirit, encouraging them to continue excelling in their respective fields and contributing positively to society.

MLA Kathua Dr Bharat Bhushan, Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, SSP Kathua Mohita Sharma was also present during the Felicitation.