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The Incentive Foster Foundation (IFF) successfully organized a nationwide online poetry writing competition in 2025, drawing participation from poets and writers across India. The initiative aimed to promote literary creativity, encourage meaningful expression, and provide a credible platform for emerging voices to gain national recognition.
After a thorough and impartial evaluation process based on originality, thematic relevance, linguistic command, and poetic impact, the results were officially announced on 10 January 2026. 14 participants were ranked for their exceptional literary contributions.
WINNERS-
Rank 1- NIDA FARHEEN from Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh
She is a poet and a graduate in B.Sc. (Mathematics), where the subtlety of intellect and the expansiveness of thought come into harmonious alignment. This intellectual harmony reflects a significant influence of her esteemed mentor, Junaid-ul-Islam, whose depth of reasoning and profound insight have played a pivotal role in shaping her perspective.
Her creative journey began as a refuge for silent emotions and gradually evolved into an inner voice that explores the essence of faith, sensitivity, and humanity. Her upcoming poetry collection, “Dil Se Jo Nikle” (That Which Emerges from the Heart), reveals, in a simple yet impactful style, the sincerity of intention, spiritual surrender, and the layered depth of human emotions.
Her poetry embodies a delicate blend of reflection and remembrance, enriched with emotional authenticity, leaving a lasting resonance in the hearts and minds of readers.
For Nida, poetry is not merely an art of words; it is a lived reality that penetrates the heart and becomes an integral part of the soul.
Rank 2- MUSKAN SHAFI from Ganderbal, J&K
A Biomedical Engineering graduate from Government College of Engineering and Technology, Ganderbal, under Cluster University of Kashmir. She completed her schooling up to 10th standard from Hanfiya Islamiya Model High School, Watlar, and pursued her H.S from New Dreamland Education Institutions, Ganderbal. Alongside her academic journey in S&T, she has cultivated a deep passion for poetry and reflective writing. Associated with Incentive Foster Foundation (IFF) for the past 2 years, she actively contributes to literary and social initiatives. Her writings draw inspiration from spiritual thinkers like Allama Iqbal and Rumi, focusing on themes of humanity, resilience, justice, and the lived realities of Kashmir and the world beyond.
Rank 3- SOBIYA AMIN from Srinagar, J&K
An Engineering student at GCET Kashmir under cluster university and an emerging writer with a deep passion for poetry and creative expression. Writing, for me, is a way to translate emotions and experiences into meaningful words. Her literary journey began with a simple love for observing life and expressing feelings through poetry. Over time, her interest has grown into a purposeful pursuit of self-expression and connection through literature. She find inspiration in human emotions, everyday moments and the beauty of words that speak beyond silence, continuing to shape her journey as a writer.
The top three winners were honored with cash awards, certificates of excellence, official letters of appreciation and media recognition, acknowledging their achievements at the national level.
OTHER RECOGNIZED RANK HOLDERS-
Rank 4- BARSHITA DAS from Kokrajhar, Assam
She is a BSc student who likes to pen down her emotions through her words of poetry.
Rank 5- POOJA SONI from Gujarat
A writer and poet, holding a Master of Science degree, and a teacher who brings creative expression into the classroom and daily life.
Rank 6- ASSAR MANZOOR from Srinagar, J&K
She's 23 years old and have done my bachelors in psychology .
Rank 7- EIMAN SYED from Anantnag, J&K
A postgraduate in English Literature, and a student of Comparative Islamic Studies with the Sapience Institute (UK), I explore the intersection of tradition and modern ethics. I have been in various academic and writing workshops.
Rank 8- FALLAH GOWHAR from Pulwama, J&K
12th grader. A medical student who loves to write.
Rank 9- IQRA FAROOQ from Banipora, J&K
A budding writer who enjoys poetry and short writings. She writes what she feels, believing words can heal pain, bring hope, and spread peace.
Rank 10- MURTAZA MUSHTAQ from Pulwama, J&K
Murtaza Mushtaq, aka Zarar (pen name). Fresh from completing his Anesthesia Technician Course. Writing's my therapy – a way to soothe heartaches and connect with others.
Rank 11- JAFAR GULZAR from Shopian, J&K
An Islamic poet who thoughtfully reflects on the contemporary challenges, misconceptions, and hardships faced by Islam, giving voice to its often unheard struggles through heartfelt and meaningful poetry.
Rank 12- MIR AUNISA from Kupwara, J&K
She has completed her Masters Degree in Economics from the University of Kashmir. Aunisa finds solace in solitude, and her favourite adages , " Paper has more Patience than People" and " Pen will never judge you like people do " , reflect her deep belief in the power of written expression.
Rank 13- MOMINA JAVID AWAN from Bemina, J&K
Momina, a Wordsmith and poetry enthusiast, currently studying in class 10th. She writes poetry to capture life's fleeting moments. Books fuel her imagination. Words often escape her in real life.
Rank 14- ANAM YOUSUF MALIK from Srinagar, J&K
A passionate writer who weaves emotion, insight, and imagination into words, exploring human experiences through thoughtful storytelling, reflective prose, and a voice rooted in curiosity and honesty always.
Rank holders were awarded certificates, official letters, gifts incl. trophies and medals, and media recognition in recognition of their commendable literary contributions.
