Budgam: Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Sunday inaugurated a local cricket tournament at Tujan in Budgam district, where more than 32 teams from urban and rural areas are participating.
Addressing players, organisers and local residents, the Speaker said sports play an important role in the overall development of young people by promoting discipline, teamwork, leadership and healthy competition. He said participation in sports contributes to physical fitness and mental well-being while helping develop talent and character.
He said the government was focusing on strengthening sports infrastructure across the Union Territory to provide better training facilities and create opportunities for athletes to compete at the national and international levels. He added that sports had emerged as a viable career option and noted that several sportspersons from Jammu and Kashmir had earned recognition at the international level.
The Speaker said efforts were being made to promote sports at the grassroots by improving infrastructure and creating opportunities for aspiring athletes. He urged parents, teachers, community leaders and sports organisations to encourage young people to adopt sports as a way of life.
Expressing concern over drug abuse and other anti-social activities, he appealed to youth to stay away from such practices and channel their energy into sports and other constructive pursuits. He said greater participation in sports could help young people remain focused and contribute positively to society.
He also appreciated the organisers for providing a platform to local talent and expressed hope that the tournament would promote sportsmanship and encourage more youth to lead healthy, drug-free lives.
