PNBMT honours Shesh Paul Vaid and O.N Koul with Amateur Journalist Award 2026
Late Hindi scholar B.L. Koul honoured for outstanding literary and community service
16/10/2026
Jammu, October 15, 2026 (KIP)-The Prem Nath Bhat Memorial Trust (PNBMT) conferred the prestigious Prem Nath Bhat Amateur Journalist Award 2026 upon Shri Shesh Paul Vaid, former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Shri Omkar Nath Koul, former Principal and regular contributor to newspapers on community and national affairs, at a function held at the Writers Club, Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.
Justice Tashi Rabstan, former Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Shri Vijay Bakaya, former Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, presided over the function. The Chairman of PNBMT also shared the dais.
The programme commenced with the recitation of Vande Mataram, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.
Shri Pradeep Koul presented an overview of the life and work of Pandit Prem Nath Bhat, recalling his contributions as an amateur journalist and his commitment to public awareness, national values and community concerns. He highlighted the enduring relevance of Bhat Ji’s example of writing with conviction, courage and a strong sense of public duty.
Both awardees were presented with a shawl, a memento and a citation in recognition of their contributions. The citation honouring Shri Shesh Paul Vaid was read by Shri Virender Raina, Chief Spokesperson of PNBMT and President of Panun Kashmir, while the citation honouring Shri Omkar Nath Koul was read by Shri Sundri Lal Koul, Secretary of PNBMT.
In his acceptance address, Shri Shesh Paul Vaid reflected on the relationship between public service, informed public debate and national security. Drawing upon his experience in policing and confronting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, he emphasised that those who communicate with the public carry a responsibility to distinguish verified information from speculation. He spoke of the need to counter misinformation without compromising accuracy, sensitivity or respect for human dignity.
Shri Vaid also highlighted the importance of preserving the experiences of people affected by terrorism and displacement. He underlined the contribution that informed citizens and amateur journalists can make by bringing experience, independent thought and a commitment to national well-being into public discussion. He expressed gratitude to the Trust for associating his work with the memory of Pandit Prem Nath Bhat.
Accepting the award, Shri Omkar Nath Koul, popularly known by his pen name Omkar Dattatray, spoke about his longstanding passion for writing, which began during his college years through letters to newspaper editors and developed into regular contributions to the regional English press. He reflected on his engagement with social, educational, community and national issues, including through his column Just a Peep.
Shri Koul described writing as a continuing responsibility to society. He emphasised that an amateur journalist’s strength lies in close observation, sincerity and sustained engagement with ordinary people’s concerns. He called upon younger members of the community to cultivate reading and writing, document their heritage and participate constructively in public debate.
The occasion also marked the introduction of an annual recognition for a personality who has rendered outstanding service to the community in any field. This year, the Trust paid posthumous tribute to the distinguished Hindi scholar, late Shri B.L. Koul, associated with Kashmir University, where he had served as Dean Students Welfare.
Shri M.K. Bharat introduced the life and achievements of the late scholar, highlighting his distinction as the University’s first D.Litt. in Hindi and his substantial literary contribution. Particular appreciation was expressed for his extensive documentation of the works of Kashmiri writers in exile, which helped preserve an important record of the community’s literary expression, experiences and cultural memory.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Justice Tashi Rabstan emphasised the importance of responsible journalism in sustaining public trust. He observed that accuracy, fairness and respect for the dignity of individuals must guide public communication. He stressed the need to verify facts, distinguish opinion from information and exercise care while reporting sensitive matters.
Justice Rabstan also highlighted the relationship between freedom of expression and responsibility, encouraging journalists and public commentators to promote informed discussion and awareness of constitutional values. He appreciated the Trust’s recognition of citizens who contribute to public life through their writing.
In his presidential address, Shri Vijay Bakaya reflected on journalism’s contribution to public awareness and accountable administration. Drawing upon his experience in public service, he spoke of the value of well-researched reporting in bringing public grievances to the attention of institutions and encouraging constructive responses.
Shri Bakaya appreciated the distinctive contribution of amateur journalists, whose professional experience and close connection with society can enrich public debate. He also stressed the importance of documenting the history, cultural traditions and contemporary concerns of the Kashmiri Pandit community for future generations.
The Chairman of PNBMT delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Guest, the presiding dignitary, awardees, participants, members of the press and all those who contributed to the programme.
The function concluded with the National Anthem.