CS unveils calendar of sports activities initiative of J&K Sports Council

SRINAGAR: Chief Secretary Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta unveiled the calendar of sports activities under the mission of “MY NATION MY PRIDE” initiative of J&K Sports Council on the banks of river Jehlum here Saturday.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, P.K Pole; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Mohammad Aijaz Asad; Secretary, J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul; senior officers from departments like Information, Health, SDRF, NDRF, Tourism, JKTDC, J&K Police, SMC and other allied departments were also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Secretary appreciated the role played by the J&K Sports Council for giving much-needed impetus to the sports activities across J&K. He said, “Government is keen to provide all facilities to players, be it technical support or equipment and gears meant for the game”.
Dr. Mehta remarked that the government will go extra yard to hone the skills of youth and I am sure they have the potential to go a mile ahead of their competitors. He added that his statement is validated every time J&K athletes participate in national championships and emerge a medallists in various sports.
Nuzhat Gul, Secretary Sports Council in her welcome address highlighted about the significance of ‘My Youth My Pride’ initiative for developing the culture of sports among youth across Jammu and Kashmir.
Principal Secretary, Youth Services and Sports (YS&S), Alok Kumar unveiled the sports activities calendar of J&K Sports Council for Jammu region at MA Stadium here today.
More 3000 players and coaches were present during the calendar unveiling ceremony.
During the calendar unveiling ceremony, a cricket match for specially abled cricketers was also held at the venue.
While declaring the tournament open, Alok Kumar, stressed upon all the stakeholders especially coaches to play an important role in taping the talent in the rural areas and that they should customize the coaching programmes to accommodate talent from such areas.
The Principal Secretary impressed upon the officers to provide every possible help to athletes from weaker economic backgrounds so that all talent is brought to the fore and reaches its deserved platform.
He also emphasized that government will engage maximum youth in sports and games and provide them a healthy environment to grow.
Alok Kumar appreciated the initiative of Sports Council for providing a platform for blind cricketers to showcase their talent.
Later, the Principal Secretary also had one-to-one interaction with coaches and players and asked them for feedback to make sports in J&K more vibrant and ensure inclusive growth of all.
Speaking on the occasion, President Hockey J&K, Rajeev Sharma announced kits and other gear for all the blind cricket teams participating in the cricket tournament being organized in M.A Stadium.