Dogras have made many contributions to all spheres of national life and there have been many illustrious Dogra personalities who have
left an indelible mark in the history.

This was stated by the President, Pratibha Devisingh Patil today after presenting Dogra Ratan Awards to eight prominent personalities of Jammu Division for their distinguished services in various fields.

The Awardees included Prof. Nilamber Dev Sharma, Prof. Rita Jetendra, Sardsar Rangil Singh, Maj. Gen(Retd) Jagdish Singh Jamwal, Dan Raj Badgotra, Sohail Kazmi and Heera Lal Verma, Sat Pal Sahini, former Director General J&K Information Department was given the award posthumously. His wife Smt. Prem Sahini received the award.
President Patil said that Dogri, undoubtedly, has added to India’s cultural fabric with Dogri paintings especially from Basohli, Guler and Kangra regions making their mark in the art galleries world over.

Smt. Patil further said that the Dogri folk songs and music speak of love, heroism and sacrifice adding the proud and brave Dogri people
are known for their valour.
The President said that Jammu and Kashmir has a rich and vibrant
cultural history and tradition and the state has continued to remain
a symbol of communal harmony and brotherhood for centuries.

She expressed the hope that the Jammu and Kashmir State will surge on the path of peace, development and progress with the policies and programmes launched by the Centre and the State Government. She added that the objective of the Central Government is to secure a better life for every citizen of the State.
Dogra Ratan Awards have been instituted by the Council for Promotion of Dogri Language, Culture and History.
Speaking on the occasion, Member Parliament Chairman, ICCR, Dr. Karan Singh said that Dogras have contributed a lot in the history of the country and said that Dogras have made supreme sacrifices to save Kashmir from raiders.