Kathua, Feb 4: Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, today inaugurated the Excise Department Cricket Tournament being organised by the District Administration Kathua in collaboration with the Excise Department J&K at Kathua Sports Stadium. The tournament marks the beginning of the first-of-its-kind Kathua Cricket League aimed at promoting sports culture and spreading awareness against drug abuse among youth.

DC Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, while interacting with players and officials emphasized that cricket serves as an effective medium to channelise youthful energy in a positive direction. He stated that engaging youth in sports is essential to keep them away from bad habits, particularly drugs and narcotics. He further informed that a volleyball tournament is also on the anvil in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department as part of sustained efforts to promote a healthy and drug-free society. He also disclosed that indoor stadium facilities will be opened for public usage in a regulated manner to encourage indoor sports and fitness activities.
ETO Kathua described the tournament as a pioneering initiative of the Excise Department in collaboration with the District Administration Kathua. He informed that in the first phase of the Kathua Cricket League, eight junior category teams from different parts of the district are participating. He added that senior category teams will take part in the second leg of the tournament, which will be organised soon. He said the Excise Department is committed to combining enforcement with social outreach and preventive measures to combat drug abuse through constructive engagement of youth.
The inaugural match marked the commencement of competitive fixtures aimed at fostering sportsmanship, teamwork and camaraderie among participants. The event witnessed the presence of senior officers, officials of the Excise Department, sports lovers and players.