Mr. Vikar Mustafa Shonthu stands as a distinguished figure in India’s engineering and infrastructure landscape, celebrated for his steadfast dedication, visionary leadership, and nearly four decades of service. Born and raised in Kashmir, he completed his schooling at the prestigious Tyndale Biscoe School, matriculating in 1976. A natural sportsman from a young age, he excelled in hockey, cricket, volleyball, and squash — while golf remained his lifelong passion and personal retreat.
Guided by academic merit and ambition, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from the Regional Engineering College (Kashmir), graduating in 1984. That same year, he began his professional journey with the Jammu & Kashmir Project Construction Corporation Ltd. (JKPCC) as a Deputy Manager — the first step toward a remarkable and impactful career.
From the outset, he displayed unwavering commitment to quality, discipline, and innovation in engineering. JKPCC, a semi-government organization responsible for major infrastructure projects across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, offered him the perfect platform to grow. Over the years, his technical expertise, strategic mindset, and ability to guide large teams propelled him through the organizational hierarchy. He ultimately rose to the position of Managing Director, leading approximately 1,000 employees and steering the corporation toward excellence. Under his stewardship, JKPCC enhanced its reputation for timely delivery of high-value construction projects that strengthened connectivity, public services, and regional development.
His career was also defined by international exposure and collaboration. Early on, he worked alongside Japan’s renowned Obayashi Corporation for the construction of the Nizamuddin Bridge in Delhi — a milestone that widened his perspective on global engineering standards. Later, he contributed to one of the world’s most ambitious transport projects, serving as a Construction Manager for the Dubai Metro. These major international assignments enriched his expertise in cross-border project management and cutting-edge engineering systems.
Upon returning to Jammu & Kashmir, he applied this global knowledge to uplift the state’s infrastructure initiatives. As Managing Director, he spearheaded several transformative projects that improved public facilities and uplifted communities across the region. His leadership style — a blend of strategic foresight, hands-on engineering acumen, and strong adherence to safety and efficiency — earned him formal recognition from multiple Chief Ministers and commendations from the Hon’ble Governor of Jammu & Kashmir for distinguished service.
Beyond professional achievements, he remained rooted in his values. A lifelong supporter of sports, he continued nurturing his passion for golf — drawing parallels between the sport’s discipline and the precision demanded by engineering. Known as a mentor and motivator, he consistently guided young engineers, encouraging them to pursue excellence with humility and grit.
After a storied career that saw JKPCC reach new professional heights, Mr. Shonthu retired in 2021. His journey — from a determined engineer in Kashmir to an influential leader in national and international infrastructure — reflects a powerful legacy built on integrity, innovation, and public service.
The structures he has helped envision and execute stand as lasting monuments to his contributions. More than a personal accomplishment, his career represents the transformative power of perseverance and leadership in building a better tomorrow.
