By – Shahid Manzoor
SHOPIAN: Bringing immense pride to the district, a team of young innovators from Shopian secured the Second Prize at the UT-level event “Idea to Impact: Annual Startup Mela 2026,” held at the prestigious JKEDI Campus, Bari Brahmana, Samba.
The outstanding student team — Mantasha Nazir, Eliza Bhat, Hurain Farooq, and Pakeeza Hilal — represented National Innovations Public School (NIPS), Zainapora, and earned top honours in the Startup Idea Challenge for their innovative concept titled “Cotton Comfort.” Their idea impressed the jury with its practical applicability, sustainability, and strong social relevance, standing out among numerous entries from across the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
In recognition of their remarkable achievement, the students were awarded a cash prize of ₹70,000, presented by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Omar Abdullah, who lauded their creativity, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit.
The achievement reflects the sustained efforts of JKEDI District Centre Shopian in nurturing innovation at the grassroots level. Through regular sensitisation programmes, mentorship initiatives, innovation workshops, and startup boot camps, students are being encouraged to transform ideas into viable ventures and explore entrepreneurship as a promising career pathway.
The success also underscores the committed guidance and mentorship provided by the school leadership. Principal Mr. Lateef, along with Chief Coordinator Mr. Shahid Manzoor and Ms Misbah, played a pivotal role in mentoring the students, refining their ideas, and preparing them for the prestigious UT-level platform.
The triumph of these budding entrepreneurs highlights the growing culture of creativity, confidence, and problem-solving among school students in Shopian. Officials from JKEDI District Centre Shopian expressed immense satisfaction and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the district’s startup ecosystem.
The recognition of “Cotton Comfort” at a UT-level platform not only adds a glorious chapter to Shopian’s achievements but also reinforces its emerging identity as a vibrant hub of innovation and young entrepreneurial talent in Jammu & Kashmir.
