Pallavi Sharma
Hamirpur: In a heartfelt and inspiring address, Rakesh Chandel, Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Minnerva Study Circle, paid tribute to the hard work and dedication of meritorious students from Bilaspur and Hamirpur districts during the Shining Star Awards ceremony held at the jam-packed auditorium of NIT Hamirpur on Saturday. The event was organised by The Newz Radar media network to honour academic excellence.
Chandel, whose educational institution has become a trusted name in competitive exam preparation, reflected on the journey of Minnerva Study Circle since its inception in 2014. “In just over a decade, we have had nearly 300 students selected for MBBS and over 250 students secure places in top-tier institutions like IITs and NITs,” he said with pride.
During his speech, Chandel singled out Arav Thakur, one of Minnerva’s recent success stories, who achieved a remarkable national rank in NEET 2025, describing him as a shining example of how dedication, discipline, and sacrifice can shape futures.
“The journey to this stage is not easy. It is your personal sacrifice — and that of your families — that has brought you here today to be honoured by none other than Anurag Thakur, a national BJP icon, sitting Member of Parliament, and former Union Minister,” Chandel said to a thunderous round of applause.
He went on to remind the students that success was not the end, but the beginning of a greater responsibility. “Each one of you here today represents not just individual brilliance, but also the aspirations of a state that believes in the power of education,” he added.
The event brought together top students, proud families, educationists, and dignitaries, making it a grand celebration of achievement. The Shining Star Awards, a flagship event by The Newz Radar, continues to motivate and celebrate young academic achievers across Himachal Pradesh.
Chandel’s message was clear: With the right support and unwavering focus, students from even the smallest towns can dream big and make it to the national stage.
