Anantnag, Oct 5: A youth from Kokernag in Anantnag district has claimed to have become the first licensed skydiver from Jammu and Kashmir, achieving the feat after completing formal skydiving training in Russia.

Shahid Muzaffar Mugloo, a resident of Gadol area of Kokernag, obtained an ‘A’ skydiving licence following specialised training in Russia. His achievement marks a remarkable journey of determination, rigorous preparation and the courage to pursue an unconventional dream.
Skydiving demands extensive technical training, physical fitness, mental resilience and the ability to make critical decisions within seconds. For Shahid, the challenge meant travelling far from home and undertaking intensive training while carrying the hopes and prayers of his family.
Speaking to ETV Bharat, Shahid said he completed his early education at an Army Goodwill School before pursuing a B.Tech degree in Pune. He has also been working with an American company for the past five and a half years.
Driven by a desire to accomplish something distinctive and make his parents proud, Shahid travelled to Russia to undergo professional skydiving training and successfully secured his licence.
He said his next goal is to promote extreme sports in Kashmir and encourage young people to explore new opportunities beyond conventional career choices.
Shahid urged youth to pursue their dreams with dedication, value their parents and use their abilities to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
For his family, the achievement has been a deeply emotional and proud moment.
His mother, a schoolteacher, said she was initially worried when she learned about her son’s decision to skydive. However, witnessing his successful jump filled her with immense pride. She described Shahid as a source of pride for their family and village and said she regularly prays for his safety and continued success.
She also expressed hope that the children she teaches would develop the confidence, courage and positive outlook needed to achieve their own aspirations.
Shahid’s grandfather thanked the Almighty for blessing the family with a grandson who, he said, had brought honour to Anantnag and Jammu and Kashmir through his achievement.
He emphasised the importance of proper guidance and upbringing, saying that children can accomplish remarkable things when supported and encouraged by their families.
Shahid’s journey from Kokernag to the skies of Russia has now emerged as an inspiring story of ambition, perseverance and family support, while his stated aim of promoting extreme sports could open new avenues for young people in the region.