Excelsior Correspondent
PUNE, Jan 11: The Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta honoured eminent personalities with Kargil Gaurav Awards – 2025 in a function held here today.
Speaking on the occasion, the LG underlined that national security cannot be viewed only through the prism of military strength.
“While India’s armed forces remain steadfast in guarding the country’s physical borders, our institutions, civil society and citizens playing a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s emotional and psychological frontiers. Lasting peace and national unity are possible only when people living in border areas feel deeply connected with the country’s mainstream,” said Kavinder Gupta.
Referring to the Kargil Gaurav National Awards, the LG said the honours recognise individuals and institutions who have strengthened the nation through their work in fields such as journalism, defence, social service, education, tourism and cooperation.
He congratulated all the award recipients.
The LG along with first lady Bindu Gupta and Sanjay Nahar, founder and president ‘Sarhad’ conferred the awards to Pralhad Kokre, Chairman Cosmos Co-operative Bank Ltd, AVM Nitin Vaidya, Maj Gen Shashikant Pitre, Rajeev Sabade, senior journalist, Zelam Chaubal, Director Kesari Tours Pvt Ltd, Tarun Uppal, Nirbhay Bharat Foundation, Raj Deshmukh, social worker and Dilip Kale, architect.
The LG also highlighted the role of civil society organisations such as ‘Sarhad’ in supporting national efforts through education and cultural outreach, particularly by fostering understanding and emotional integration between border communities and the rest of the country, in harmony with the larger national security framework.
He also congratulated Sarhad Founder, Sanjay Nahar and his dedicated team for organising the inspiring event, noting that the message emanating from Pune would resonate across the country.
Earlier, Sanjay Nahar threw light on the organisation’s journey, its functioning and the many challenges faced over the years while working in remote and sensitive border regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
He said, “Sarhad has consistently worked to bridge the emotional and cultural distance between border communities and the national mainstream through education, cultural exchange, youth engagement and people-centric initiatives.”
The students also showcased cultural performances during the event.
Among others who were present included Sanjeev Shah, Vasant Gokhale, Dr Shailesh Pagaria, Sumant Waikar, Sanjay Nahar, Yuvaraj Shah, Shailesh Wadekar, Leshpal Javalage, Anuj Nahar and Zahid Bhat.
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