KATRA: Stressing the need for providing ample opportunities and conducive environment to the girls, Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, Priya Sethi said that they have the talent and capabilities which need to be nurtured so that they outshine and create a niche for themselves in the field of their choice.
“Women empowerment is pre-requisite for societal progress and prosperity for which the present government is determined”, maintained the minister.
The minister was speaking at the women wrestling competition during the 12th Mission Dosti, Rustam-e-International Indian Style Dangal held as a part of the Navratra festival at Katra. Minister of State for Finance and Planning, Ajay Nanda was the Guest of Honour on the occasion. While appreciating the women wrestlers, Priya said that girls are showing their abilities in every field and bringing laurels for their family and country .She also exhorted upon the participating wrestlers from various countries to act as an ambassador for the State to dispel any misconception regarding the atmosphere in Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Guest also announced Rs. 75,000 for all the women wrestlers who had participated in the competition.
A total of 41 bouts for both men and women were organised.
Out of the total nine bouts played in the women wrestling competition. The first bout w as won by Sonia from Punjab who defeated Shivani from Delhi. Similarly the second bout was won by Neha from Delhi. Harjeet from Punjab clinched the title of third bout while Simran from Punjab won the fourth bout. Jaspreet and Preeti both from Punjab were declared as the winners of fifth and sixth bout respectively whereas Varsha from Delhi defeated Jaspreet. The eighth and ninth bouts were won by Raaj and Preeti respectively, both from Punjab. The winners of different bouts were felicitated with the cash prize of Rs. 2700 while the runner ups were given Rs. 2300.
Among others, Vice President BJP Yudhvir Sethi, Ex MLA B.S Mankotia, Distt President BJP, Kuldeep Raj Dubey, DDC Ravinder Kumar, ASP Sumir Kotwal, SDM Katra Neelam Khajuria, A.D Tourism Katra Dr. Umesh Shan,Tehsildar Katra Mohit Raina, DYSSO Reasi Dr. S.S Chib and SDPO Dr. Ashok Sharma witnessed the bouts.