Associated News Bureau

Satish Sharma Inaugurates Football Tournament in Anantnag, Calls Sports Key to Combating Drug Abuse

ANANTNAG, AUGUST 6: Reiterating the Jammu and Kashmir Government's commitment to youth empowerment through sports, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Thursday inaugurated the Late Legends Memorial Knockout Football Tournament at the Sports Stadium in Anantnag. Organised under the theme "Say No to Drugs, Yes to Sports," the tournament drew enthusiastic participation from football players, coaches, sports enthusiasts and members of the local community. The event also paid tribute to distinguished personalities while promoting sportsmanship, discipline and a healthy lifestyle among young people. Addressing the gathering, the Minister said sports play a transformative role in shaping the character of youth by instilling discipline, teamwork, perseverance and self-confidence. He said tournaments of this nature not only provide a platform for emerging talent but also encourage young people to channel their energy into constructive and productive pursuits. Highlighting the government's focus on strengthening the sports ecosystem, Sharma said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, sustained efforts are being made to upgrade sports infrastructure, expand competitive opportunities and provide talented athletes with the support needed to excel at national and international levels. Expressing concern over the growing challenge of drug abuse, the Minister described substance addiction as a serious threat to society, particularly the younger generation. He termed sports as one of the most effective tools to prevent youth from falling into the trap of drugs by promoting physical fitness, mental resilience and a sense of purpose. "Every playground occupied by our youth is a victory against drugs. Sports build character, inspire discipline and create responsible citizens," Sharma said, urging parents, teachers, sports associations and civil society organisations to encourage greater participation of children in sports and recreational activities. The Minister lauded the organisers for dedicating the tournament to the memory of the region's distinguished personalities and for using sport as a platform to spread the message of a healthy, drug-free society. He also interacted with the participating teams, wished them success and urged them to uphold the values of fair play, discipline and mutual respect throughout the tournament. The inaugural match was played amid enthusiastic support from spectators, marking the beginning of the knockout competition aimed at promoting sporting excellence and reinforcing the message of youth empowerment through sports. MLAs Altaf Ahmad Wani (Kuloo) and Riyaz Ahmad Khan, along with sports officials, coaches, players, youth representatives, prominent citizens and members of the local administration, were present on the occasion. ANB