Transforming J&K emerging as prime sports hub: Rana

JAMMU, February 23- Senior BJP leader Mr Devender Singh Rana today said that the fast transforming Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a prime sports hub in the country with thrust on state-of-art infrastructure and allied facilities.

“The successful culmination of the Khelo India winter event in Gulmarg is shining example of managerial excellence and unique hospitality, Jammu and Kashmir is known for the world over”, Mr Rana said while declaring open Federation Cup Equipped National Powerlifting Championship 2023 for Men and Women at Indoor Stadium Bhagwati Nagar here this afternoon, in which teams from 26 states / UTs across the country are participating.

He said sports are getting huge impetus in the Union Territory and 24x7x365 calendar of various sports activities stand testimony to dawning peace and normalcy besides determination of various institutions, associations and budding sportspersons in all the disciplines. He said Jammu and Kashmir has already made a mark in the popular games like cricket, hockey, football and the various other games across the country and even globally.

Referring to the Federation Cup Equipped National Powerlifting Championship 2023, Mr Devender Rana wished that the world champion would be a lifter from this part of the country. He, however, wished all the success to the participating competitors, hoping that the event will witness sportsmanship at its best.  

Highlighting the crucial significance of sports in overall growth of youngsters, Mr Rana said that apart from ensuring physical fitness, the sports open up vistas of opportunities for talented ones in career advancement in this competitive era.

“The growing participation of the Indian youth in general and the sportspersons from Jammu and Kashmir in particular in various national and international events is serving as an inspiration for the young people and drawing them towards games from early childhood”, Mr Rana said adding that he gets overwhelmed to see young boys and girls making it to playfields every day for practice, coaching and participation in various competitions. Such a scenario is pleasing to see young children channelizing their energies towards positive pursuits.

This has brought dividends to them, which is reflected from the encouraging fact of young boys and girls from this part of the country making name and fame, nationally and internationally. In this context he referred to the prominent players from Jammu and Kashmir, who have left their indelible mark in the world of sports in recent years.

Mr Rana expressed happiness over power lifting gaining acceptability and popularity in Jammu and hoped the budding sports persons will excel in the sport and bring laurels for Jammu and Kashmir, which has no dearth of talent. Flourishing sports and glamour attached to various games is a good omen for the Union Territory that has to remain in pace with other parts of the country, he added.

Mr Devender Rana complimented the sports lovers for acclaiming the power lifter, saying encouragement inspires them to give their best. He wished the participating sports persons success in their chosen field and exhorted them to take away time for giving necessary tips to the budding sportspersons in the field. He also lauded the organizers for holding the event.

The Championship is being organized by All J&K UT Powerlifting Association, affiliated to Powerlifting India, International, Asian and Commonwealth Powerlifting Federation.

Mr. Satish Kumar, President Powerlifting India, Mr. P.J Joseph General Secretary, Working President Mr Rahul Sawhney and General Secretary Mr Ajay Sharma introduced Mr Devender Rana with the powerlifters participating in the event and dwelt in detail about the activities of the Federation.

Among others who were present on the occasion included Mr. Rajeev Sharma Member Sports Council J&K, Mr. Ashok Singh, District Sports Officer, Mr. Dharamveer Singh Jamwal, Baba Chanchal Singh, Mr. Somnath Khajuria , Mr. Rajinder Singh Chib , S.Sucha Singh , Mr. Kuldeep Singh Jamwal, Mr. Surinder Singh Gilli and others.