Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 20: The Jammu Veteran Cricket League –Edition 1, organised by Samvedna Club under the leadership of its Chairman Keshav Chopra, began at the historic MA Stadium here today. The 10-day tournament, scheduled from November 20 to 29, aims to blend competitive cricket with a strong social message promoting drug awareness.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries including Dr. Vikas Gupta, Director Tourism Jammu; Aijaz Qaiser, Joint Director Tourism and Vivek Shekhar Sharma, Superintendent of Police Jammu North. The event witnessed an enthusiastic turnout from both veteran players and young participants, reflecting a spirit of mentorship and community bonding.
Dr. Vikas Gupta praised the initiative, noting that combining sports with a social cause is vital for building a healthy society and promoting Jammu as a vibrant destination. SP Vivek Shekhar Sharma highlighted the seriousness of drug abuse and said that sports are essential tools in guiding youth towards discipline and resilience.
Keshav Chopra said that “We are overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from both the veteran and youth players. The core mission of the Samvedna Club has always been social welfare, and there is no greater welfare than saving our youth from the clutches of drug abuse. This tournament is more than just cricket; it is a movement. It is a clarion call to every young individual to swap the despair of drugs for the joy and discipline of the playing field.







