Dy CM Dr Nirmal Singh said that sports is instrumental in channelizing the energy of youth in a right direction saving them from falling prey to social evils like drug menace.
Dr Singh said this while addressing the 2nd Pandit Prem Nath Dogra Memorial Football Gold Cup Tournament which was organized by JKFA Jammu at State Sports Club J&K. He paid tributes to Prem Nath Dogra for his contribution towards sports and overall development of the State.
Appreciating the efforts of organizer for holding such tournaments, the Dy CM said that these activities immensely help in bringing out sports talent among the youth besides instilling in them competitive spirit. “Sports promote ‘spirit of discipline and health’ among youth”, he asserted. He said that the impact of sports on the society is multi dimensional.
Minister for Industries and Commerce, Chander Parkash Ganga, Member of Legislative Assembly, Rajesh Gupta besides others were also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Ganga, said that Prime Minister is taking keen interest in encouraging sports to channelize youth energies in a right direction. He highlighted initiatives like Khelo India saying that youth must participate in sports activities to be fit and healthy. The Government is taking initiatives to provide playgrounds at every block level, he added. He also announced Rupees one lakh for the tournament.
About 25 teams from the State and outside the State are participating in the tournament.
