Excelsior Sports Correspondent
RAJOURI, May 20: Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri organized the first-ever Peer Panjal Chess Championship in collaboration with the All Jammu & Kashmir Chess Association, aligning with the J&K Government’s initiative for a drug-free society under the slogan “Say No to Drugs and Yes to Sports.”
The championship witnessed impressive participation of 165 players from various parts of Rajouri district, including a notable number of female participants, marking a strong step towards inclusive sports engagement in the region.
The event was e-inaugurated by Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, J&K who appreciated GMC Rajouri for providing a platform to local youth and lauded the record turnout for a debut event of this scale. The tournament was held under the guidance of Principal GMC Rajouri, Dr. AS Bhatia.
The prize distribution ceremony was graced by Deputy Commissioner Rajouri Abhishek Sharma as the chief guest, who awarded winners and encouraged youth participation in sports while urging them to stay away from drugs. He also called for structured chess training in schools.
In the competition, Rakshit Lakhanpal emerged champion, followed by Dr Akashdeep Singh Bhatia and Jasir Zahoor Lone. Sanchi Mahajan was named Best Woman Player, while Viraj Raina won Best Under-15 category. Matches were supervised by Atul Kumar Gupta, with Arvindu and Nirmal Sharma as arbiters. The event was coordinated by Nadeem and Jagatar from GMC Rajouri, with several officials in attendance.
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