- Event fosters unity in diversity, sportsmanship: Sarmad Hafeez
- Tara highlights magnitude of event, emphasises J&K’s commitment in sports promotion
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Secretary to the Government, Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir, Sarmad Hafeez, declared the 68th National School Games open in an impressive, colourful and well attended opening ceremony at MA Stadium here today.
The sporting extravaganza, featuring Judo Under-17 Boys category is as part of the series of events J&K is hosting in four sports disciplines of Judo, Wushu, Fencing and Football.
Thirty five (35) teams from across the country comprising around 350 athletes are all set to vie for the top honours by displaying their skill and talent, besides sporting and competitive spirit in the City of Temples.
The ceremony began with the lighting of the traditional lamp which was followed by an appealing welcome address by the Director General Youth Services and Sports, Rajinder Singh Tara, who is also the chairman of this mega event.
Welcoming the dignitaries and the visiting contingents, Mr Tara expressed his hope that all participants would cherish their time in Jammu and Kashmir and carry home lasting memories from the tournament.
Highlighting the magnitude of the event, Tara informed that over 4,000 participants will compete across various disciplines during the games, emphasizing J&K’s commitment towards nurturing budding athletes and promoting sports in every nook and corner of the Union Territory.
Secretary Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez lavished praise on the achievements and the activities of the Youth Services and Sports Department.
While welcoming the participants drawn from across the country, Sarmad underscored the unity and sportsmanship that the National School Games foster.
Highlighting the importance of hosting such events in Jammu and Kashmir, the Secretary YSS said such events apart from promoting sports and games, also promote tourism, besides promoting peace and harmony.
He further said that such events showcase the region’s infrastructure and hospitality while supporting youth engagement in sports at a national scene.
Several high-ranking officials graced the occasion, including DIG Police and Secretary J&K Sports Council, Ms Nuzhat Gul, who shared in the celebrations and extended their best wishes to the young athletes.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Joint Director of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu, Ved Prakash, who expressed his gratitude to all dignitaries, guests, and media representatives for their support in making the event a grand success. Deputy Director YSS (C), Mr Jitendra Mishra was also present on the occasion.
The 68th National School Games promises to be an exciting platform for young athletes to shine and bring pride to their regions, fostering sportsmanship and camaraderie across states.