In a moment of immense pride for Jammu & Kashmir, Hanaya Nisar, a 16-year-old martial arts champion from Kokernag, Anantnag, has been awarded the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2023 in the Sports category. The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, recognizing Hanaya’s outstanding achievements in SQAY martial arts—a traditional martial art form from Kashmir.
Hanaya has earned international acclaim for her dedication and skill. She won a gold medal at the 3rd World SQAY Championship held in South Korea and has clinched top positions in national events, including the 23rd SQAY National Championship where she was named Champion of Champions. Her consistent performances have made her one of the brightest young sports talents from the region.
Following the award ceremony, Hanaya had the opportunity to interact with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised her sporting achievements and dedication. In recognition of her role as a youth icon, she has also been appointed a Beti Bachao Beti Padhao ambassador in Anantnag district.
Hanaya’s journey is more than a sports success story—it’s a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and empowerment for young girls in Kashmir. Balancing her studies at Government Model Higher Secondary School, Kokernag, with a rigorous training schedule, she has broken barriers and stereotypes through her achievements.
Local leaders, including Deputy Commissioner Dr. Basharat Qayoom, have felicitated Hanaya, calling her an “inspiration for the next generation.”
- Cultural Pride: Hanaya is reviving and promoting SQAY, a traditional Kashmiri martial art, on global platforms.
- Gender Empowerment: As a young female athlete from the Valley, she inspires many girls to pursue sports.
- National Recognition: Being among the few selected for the Bal Puraskar in Sports, she places Jammu & Kashmir on India’s sports map with pride.
Congratulations to Hanaya Nisar—J&K’s pride and a rising star in Indian sports! Her journey is a powerful reminder of what dedication, discipline, and dreams can achieve.
