Pallavi Sharma
NURPUR: The maiden edition of The Newz Radar-Shining Star Awards in Nurpur turned out to be a resounding success on Thursday (June 12, 2025) as a packed hall witnessed the felicitation of hundreds of bright students who have excelled in Class 10 and 12 board examinations.
Organised at the banquet hall of Jyoti Hotel and Restaurant in Kandwal, the event was part of the third season of The Newz Radar-Shining Star Awards series. This was the first time the ceremony was held in Nurpur after highly acclaimed editions in Chamba and Dharamshala earlier this month.
Nurpur BJP MLA Ranbir Singh Nikka graced the occasion as Chief Guest and personally handed over certificates to the students who scored 85% and above in their respective board exams (across all boards and streams).
In his address, MLA Nikka praised The Newz Radar initiative and encouraged students to continue striving for excellence, not just in academics but in all walks of life. “This platform by The Newz Radar is not just recognising marks, but the spirit of determination, dedication and dreams. I feel honoured to be part of this celebration of talent,” said Nikka.
Celebration of talent, grit & dedication
Students, along with their proud parents and teachers, filled the venue with enthusiasm and energy. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as students received recognition not just for their marks, but for their perseverance and commitment in a competitive academic environment.
The Newz Radar-Shining Star Awards 3.0 is more than just a felicitation ceremony. It is a statewide movement dedicated to identifying and honouring young achievers across Himachal Pradesh.
The series is supported by Guru Study Centre-Dharamshala, and co-powered by Aarni University, HIET Group of Institutions, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, P3Y, Soul Frame-Dharamshala and the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL).
Following the massive success of the 2023 and 2024 editions, the current season has reached new heights of participation and impact. The Nurpur event added yet another feather to the cap of the awards journey.
Speaking on the occasion, The Newz Radar Executive Editor Sunil Chadha said, “These young minds are not just toppers on paper — they are our future innovators, leaders and changemakers. This recognition is a small token of our belief in their immense potential.”
Political Editor S Gopal Puri echoed this sentiment. “Behind every successful student is a family that supports them through every step. Today, we also honour the silent heroes as well — the parents and teachers,” he said.
The Newz Radar also reaffirmed its commitment to the holistic well-being of students. “Our engagement with students doesn’t end with the awards. We remain available to guide and support them mentally, emotionally and academically,” said Abhinav Sharma, Head of Human Resources at The Newz Radar.
As The Newz Radar takes the awards to other parts of Himachal Pradesh, keep following us for updates on our website www.thenewzradar.com, YouTube channel, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Facebook.
