Students, athletes join inter-zonal sports, tribal games, anti-drug drives across J&K
Srinagar, Aug 6: In a bid to promote youth engagement through sports and social awareness, thousands of student players across Jammu and Kashmir participated in inter-zonal tournaments, tribal sports events, patriotic programmes, and anti-drug campaigns on Wednesday.
As per a press statement issued, the wide-ranging activities—spanning competitive matches, cultural celebrations, and substance abuse awareness drives—highlighted the region’s growing commitment to holistic youth development.
In Samba, the Inter-Zonal District Level Tournament for Under-19 Boys commenced with great enthusiasm, featuring table tennis and taekwondo matches. The District Youth Services & Sports Officer inaugurated the event, emphasising the importance of nurturing young talent. A highlight was the collective pledge under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, reinforcing the message of a drug-free lifestyle.
Meanwhile, Kishtwar celebrated the successful conclusion of the Athletic wwwMeet for AAG Boys at the picturesque Chowgan Ground. The closing ceremony honoured young athletes for their discipline and teamwork, with officials reiterating the department’s focus on grassroots sports development.
District Jammu resonated with patriotic fervour as schools across various zones participated in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, organising flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, and tricolour-themed competitions. Simultaneously, the Inter-School Zonal Level Tournament for Under-19 Boys and Girls in sports zone Khour saw spirited contests in Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Volleyball, and more, with over 80 participants.
Meanwhile, Kulgam and Anantnag Foster Talent Through Inclusive Sports. Kulgam emerged as a hub of sporting activity, hosting selection trials in netball, cricket, and badminton for the U-14 and U-17 categories. Over 150 young athletes competed, with winners receiving accolades for their dedication.
In a landmark initiative, Zone Shangus organised a special sports event for tribal communities at Higher Secondary School Dethu, promoting inclusivity and grassroots participation. Students from HSS Chittergul, HSS Dethu, and HS Ranipora competed in Kabaddi, volleyball, and athletics, highlighting the department’s commitment to equitable sports access. Similar tribal events are set to unfold across all 12 zones in the coming days.
Anantnag witnessed a thrilling Inter-Zonal Girls Kabaddi Tournament (U-14 & U-17) at Wizkids School, Batengo, with over 275 participants. Zone Achabal emerged victorious in both categories. The event underscored the growing participation of girls in competitive sports. Concurrently, Zone Srigufwara concluded its U-17 Boys Cricket Tournament, with HSS Mahind lifting the trophy.
In Rajouri, the under-14 football team was flagged off for the inter-district divisional level football competition in Jammu. Officials, including ZPEO Baljarallan, encouraged the team to play with pride while promoting the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.
Alongside sporting events, drug awareness programmes were organised, including a session at MS Bona Dialgam in collaboration with MY Bharat and NYK Anantnag. Young athletes took a unity pledge, vowing to stay away from substance abuse and embrace a healthy, sports-centric lifestyle.
