Kathua, Feb 22: District Administration Kathua, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department Kathua, today commenced the Open District Cricket Tournament under the aegis of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, with inaugural day matches being held across different subdivisions of the district.

The tournament is being organized under the directions of Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, with the objective of promoting sportsmanship and spreading awareness against drug abuse among the youth.
At Billawar, under the supervision of Additional Deputy Commissioner Billawar, Vinay Khosla, two matches were played at Playground Bhaddu as part of the inaugural fixtures. In the first match, A.K Billawar defeated United II Billawar. In the second match, M.K Deccan Charges Billawar secured victory against Ramkot Cricket Club.
Similarly, at Government Model Higher Secondary School Basohli, inaugural matches were conducted under the supervision of Additional Deputy Commissioner Basohli, Pankaj Bhagotra. Plassi Cricket Club defeated Game Changer CC Mahanpur, while Basohli Warriors emerged victorious against United Hut.
At Hiranagar, under the supervision of Sub-Divisional Magistrate Hiranagar, Phulail Singh, two inaugural matches were played at Sai International Stadium. Hiranagar Cricket Club defeated Superking Cricket Club, while Mukesh II Cricket Club registered victory over Pro II Cricket Club.
Likewise, at Degree College Bani, under the supervision of Sub-Divisional Magistrate Bani, Sandeep Kumar, Bani defeated Duggan, while Backen secured victory over Lowang in the opening day matches.
Refreshments were served to all participating players and officials. The tournament will continue in the coming days, with winning teams advancing to subsequent rounds, culminating in the grand finale at District Headquarters Kathua.
Pertinently, the District Administration Kathua has undertaken a resolve to engage youth in constructive pursuits and strengthen the fight against drug abuse through sustained sports-based interventions under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan.