SATV, Kathmandu, Sept. 22 - Sanskar Khand has won the title of the 11th edition of the ‘Vyas Nagar Shining Star’ competition organised by JCI Vyas Nagar. Khand emerged winner after outperforming 19 other contestants in the final held in Damauli on Sunday night.

Samriddhi Shrestha was declared first runner-up, while Sumi Thapa finished second runner-up. Khand received a cash prize of Rs. 26,026, Shrestha Rs. 15,026 and Thapa Rs. 10,026, along with trophies and certificates.

Of the 20 participants who took part in the initial round, 10 were selected for the final based on their performances and evaluations. The winners were selected from among the finalists through a question-and-answer session and a writing competition designed to assess their talent and intellectual abilities.

Vyas Municipality Mayor Baikuntha Neupane, who was the chief guest, presented the awards to the winners and runners-up. He said such creative programmes played an important role in the overall development of children.

“Participation in extracurricular activities, rather than relying solely on textbook knowledge, helps develop children's self-confidence and leadership abilities. Such locally organised competitions play an important role in shaping capable future citizens,” said Neupane.

Ajar Nagila, president of JCI Vyas Nagar, said the ‘Vyas Nagar Shining Star’ competition had been held annually since 2013 to identify and nurture children's talents and develop their personality, leadership skills and physical fitness, while also enhancing their knowledge of art, culture and contemporary issues.

“Our primary objective is to provide children with a platform where competition goes beyond winning or losing. We aim to bring out their potential and empower them to present themselves in society with confidence and fearlessness,” said Nagila.