Shopian, April 25: To promote a drug free society through constructive youth engagement, the District Administration Shopian today inaugurated a Cosco Cricket Tournament under the banner of Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyaan at YSS Stadium Shirmal Shopian.

The inaugural match was played between Civil Administration Shopian and Police Department Shopian.
Batting first, the Police Department set a target of 85 runs. In response, the District Administration team fell short by 8 runs. Mohammad Ashraf (Dy.SP DAR) was adjudged Man of the Match for his batting performance.
The tournament, organized by the District Administration Shopian through the Department of Youth Services & Sports, shopian aims to channel the energy of youth towards sports and positive activities, thereby discouraging substance abuse.
A total of 16 teams from across the district are participating in the tournament, ensuring representation from all blocks of Shopian district.
Besides, YSS Stadium Shirmal, matches are being held at multiple venues across the district, including sports fields at Kathuhallan, Sedow, Lathanthora, and Tilwani Wuder.
The event was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Shishir Gupta, and SSP Shopian, Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary in presence ASP Shopian, Rameez Rashid Bhat, Dy.SP Hqrs, Imtiyaz Ahmad Mir, DYSSO Shopian, Sunil Kumar and officers of the district administration.
On the occasion, a pledge was also administered to participants and attendees, reaffirming their commitment towards a drug free society.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of sports as an effective tool in combating drug abuse and fostering a healthy, disciplined lifestyle among youth.
The tournament marks a proactive step towards community involvement, encouraging youth participation, and reinforcing the message of “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life, Yes to Sports.”