Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 12: In a significant move to harness the power of youth and channel their energies into productive and health-enhancing pursuits, Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a high-level meeting to review the performance and roadmap of the Youth Services & Sports Department (YS&S). The meeting witnessed vibrant discussions on expanding the sporting landscape of the Union Territory and enhancing youth engagement through structured and inclusive initiatives.
Calling the Department’s role vital in building a fit, focused, and drug-free society, the Chief Secretary underlined the transformative power of sports in shaping personalities, cultivating discipline, and deterring youth from harmful distractions like substance abuse. He emphasized that increased community participation in sports must become a key pillar of public health and social development in the UT.
He applauded the strides made in strengthening sports infrastructure* which he said now rivals national benchmarks. Encouraging the optimal utilization of newly created stadiums, indoor arenas, and playgrounds across the UT, the Chief Secretary urged the department to aspire towards organizing more mega sporting events that can spotlight local talent and inspire wider participation.
Recognizing the natural water bodies as untapped potential for adventure and water sports, Dulloo also directed officials to **initiate water-based sporting activities at Manasbal Lake and to explore competitive events at Ranjit Sagar Lake in Kathua, adding a thrilling dimension to the UT’s sports repertoire.
Commissioner Secretary, YS&S, Sarmad Hafeez, in his remarks, gave a panoramic view of the sporting ecosystem in the UT. He informed that millions of youth have been directly or indirectly engaged in various sports activities organized at the block, district, and UT levels.
Secretary of J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, also made a detailed presentation outlining the Council’s efforts in tournament organization, grassroots coaching, and infrastructure upgradation.
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