Poonch, Nov 17: As part of the Department of Youth Services and Sports activity calendar 2025–26, the Inter-Division UT Level AAG Girls Hockey Competition began today here at the Astro Turf Ground, Poonch, witnessing enthusiastic participation from both Jammu and Kashmir Divisions.

The competition was inaugurated by Tehsildar Headquarters, Pallvi Verma as the Chief Guest, while Principal Boys Higher Secondary School Rupinder Kour was the Guest of Honour.
In her motivational address, Pallvi Verma encouraged young athletes with the inspiring message: “Say no to drugs, yes to sports.” She appreciated the Department’s ongoing initiatives to promote youth engagement, discipline and sportsmanship in the district.
The event is being organized under the aegis of Director General YSS, Anuradha Gupta, and the guidance of Joint Director YSS Vinakshi Koul.
The competition is being supervised by DYSSO Mohammad Qasim, who praised the athletes’ enthusiasm and reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent at the grassroots level.
A dedicated Selection Committee, constituted by the Directorate of YSS, is ensuring a transparent and merit-based process for identifying outstanding players who will represent the Union Territory in higher-level tournaments.
The opening day witnessed spirited performances by the young hockey players, who showcased remarkable skill, teamwork and sportsmanship. Vijay Kumar, Activity Incharge, played a vital role in coordinating and ensuring the smooth conduct of the competition.
The event provides a crucial platform for identifying emerging talent that will represent Jammu & Kashmir in upcoming state and national-level competitions.