Udhampur, May 23: Department of Youth Services and Sports Udhampur today organised the District Level Inter-Zonal Tournament for U/14 and U/17 Boys here at the Subash Stadium.

As many as 403 student players from 11 zones of the District are taking part in the tournament featuring Kabaddi, Handball and Badminton matches. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation and vibrant sporting spirit among the young athletes.
Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa inaugurated the tournament.
Earlier, DYSSO Tarsem Singh along with ZPEOs and other staff members accorded warm welcome to the Deputy Commissioner and highlighted the achievements and ongoing activities of the Department. They expressed gratitude to the district administration for its continuous support towards sports promotion and youth development initiatives.
The programme commenced with the recitation of National Song and National Anthem in the presence of participants, officials and guests.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized the importance of sports in shaping the personality and future of the youth. “Sports activities provide a constructive platform to engage young minds and play a crucial role in keeping youth away from drug abuse,” he noted. He appreciated the efforts of the Department of Youth Services and Sports for promoting sports culture in the district alongside the ongoing Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan campaign, especially in far-flung areas. He encouraged the participants to imbibe discipline, sportsmanship and dedication while participating in the tournament.