GANDERBAL: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday inaugurated the 70th National School Games at the Government College of Physical Education, Ganderbal, welcoming young athletes from 23 States and Union Territories and calling for greater recognition, support and opportunities for sports beyond cricket.
The five-day event features Under-17 boys’ and girls’ competitions in Wushu and Taekwondo, bringing together young athletes from across the country.
Welcoming the participants to Kashmir, particularly Ganderbal, Abdullah said the region had a strong tradition of excellence in Wushu and Taekwondo, with local athletes achieving success at national and international levels. He expressed happiness at the enthusiasm and determination of the young participants and hoped they would compete wholeheartedly and bring pride to their respective States and Union Territories.
Emphasising the role of sports in children’s overall development, the Chief Minister said young people should be encouraged to pursue their sporting interests alongside academics without facing excessive pressure to secure high marks.
He expressed concern over the disproportionate attention and resources devoted to cricket, saying other sports, including football, hockey, Wushu and Taekwondo, deserved greater media visibility, sponsorship and institutional support. He called for a more inclusive sporting environment in which talent across disciplines received adequate opportunities and encouragement.
Abdullah said sports played a vital role in instilling discipline, building confidence and opening new avenues for young people. He urged the participants to compete with determination, uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and develop lasting friendships during their stay in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chief Minister said the government was making concerted efforts to strengthen sports infrastructure and expand opportunities for young athletes. He stressed the need to establish indoor sports complexes in every district to encourage wider participation and provide children with better facilities to pursue different sporting disciplines.
Abdullah also invited the visiting teams and officials to explore the region, including Sonamarg, Srinagar’s Mughal Gardens and other local attractions. He said Kashmir’s hospitality was as memorable as its natural beauty.
During the inaugural function, boys and girls presented demonstrations of Wushu and Taekwondo, drawing appreciation from the Chief Minister and other dignitaries.
Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Director General Youth Services and Sports Anuradha Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Shreya Singhal, Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal, senior officers, athletes, team officials and students attended the event.
