Gulistan News Executive Editor Ishfaq Gowhar Zargar Receives Outstanding Media Award
Jammu:Dr B. N . Dhar
In a significant recognition of journalistic excellence and contribution to public discourse, noted journalist and Executive Editor of Gulistan News, Ishfaq Gowhar Zargar, has been conferred with the Award for Outstanding Media Persons, an honour that celebrates credibility, courage and commitment in journalism. Each awardee will receive a cash prize of ₹51,000 along with a formal citation, recognising their sustained contribution to the media landscape.
The award ceremony brought together some of the most respected names in print, electronic and digital journalism from Jammu and Kashmir, underlining the growing importance of responsible and impactful reporting in a rapidly evolving media environment.
Among the recipients, Ishfaq Gowhar Zargar’s name stood out prominently, reflecting his long-standing role in shaping serious, people-centric journalism through Gulistan News. As Executive Editor, Zargar has been at the forefront of editorial leadership, guiding coverage on governance, politics, social issues and conflict-sensitive reporting in Jammu and Kashmir. His work is widely acknowledged for balancing ground realities with ethical reporting standards, especially during sensitive political and security developments.
Over the years, Zargar has played a decisive role in strengthening Gulistan News as a credible regional news platform. From steering marathon live transmissions during elections and major political events to conceptualising in-depth current affairs programmes, his editorial vision has consistently focused on facts, context and public interest. Colleagues and peers often credit him for mentoring young journalists and encouraging field-based, research-driven reporting.
The award jury noted that Zargar’s contribution goes beyond daily news cycles. His leadership during high-pressure situations, including prolonged live broadcasts and coverage of landmark political changes in Jammu and Kashmir, has set benchmarks for regional television journalism. The honour is also seen as recognition of Gulistan News’ growing influence as a serious news organisation rooted in local realities but aligned with national journalistic standards.
Other distinguished media professionals honoured with the award include Avtar Krishan Bhat (Journalist), Vivek Suri (Executive Editor Digital, Himalayan Mail), Somil Abrol (Correspondent & In-Charge, PTI Video Service, Jammu Bureau), Dinesh Manhotra (Freelance Journalist), Bilal Ahmad Bhat (Bureau Chief, ANI), Inayat Jahangir (Bureau Chief, PTI), Razia Noor (Correspondent, Dainik Jagran), Sunil Ji Bhat (Deputy Editor & Jammu Bureau Head, Aaj Tak & India Today), Syed Khalid Hussain (Senior Special Correspondent, ZEE News) and Sarosh Kafeel (Bureau Chief, News18 JKLH).
The selection of awardees reflects a broad spectrum of journalism—print, television, digital and wire services—highlighting the collective role of media in strengthening democracy and public accountability.
For Gulistan News, the recognition of its Executive Editor is being seen as a moment of pride and affirmation of its editorial ethos. Media observers say the award reinforces the channel’s position as a key voice in Jammu and Kashmir’s media space, committed to professionalism, balance and fearless journalism.
As the media fraternity continues to navigate challenges ranging from misinformation to on-ground risks, honours like these serve as a reminder of the value of principled journalism—and of individuals like Ishfaq Gowhar Zargar, who continue to uphold it with consistency and conviction.
