Srinagar: The Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, Jammu and Kashmir, on Saturday inaugurated the “Leagues of Classics” Inter-District UT-Level Football Tournament at the historic Polo Ground, Srinagar, marking a significant step in promoting sports and youth engagement across Jammu and Kashmir.
The tournament was formally inaugurated by Director General Youth Services and Sports Anuradha Gupta, who kicked off the competition in the presence of athletes and sports enthusiasts from across the Union Territory.
Addressing the gathering, Gupta outlined a vision for inclusive sports development, stating that the “Leagues of Classics” has been designed to bridge the gap between students and non-students across all 20 districts of J&K. She emphasised that the department is committed to creating an ecosystem where every young individual finds an opportunity to participate in sports.
Highlighting the broader impact of such initiatives, she said sports play a transformative role in nation-building and character development. Stressing the importance of engaging youth in constructive activities, Gupta said the tournament is part of a larger movement to steer young people away from drug abuse and social isolation.
“Our mission goes beyond competition. By taking such leagues to every zone and district, we are building a generation defined by discipline, health and integrity,” she said.
She also noted that the department is currently hosting UT-level competitions in cricket and volleyball, which are underway and expected to conclude in the coming days.
Participants in the tournament have arrived from multiple districts, including Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal, Kulgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Srinagar, Doda, Jammu, Kathua, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Ramban and Samba.
Earlier, District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO) Srinagar Ghulam Hassan Lone delivered the welcome address, appreciating the department’s innovative initiatives and highlighting their role in engaging youth and curbing drug abuse.
In a key highlight, the Director General administered the “Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyan” pledge to participants and spectators, reinforcing a collective commitment towards a drug-free society.
She later interacted with teams participating in the inaugural match, encouraging them to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship.
The tournament, hosted by the District Youth Services and Sports Office in Srinagar, will continue over the coming days.
