- Dedicated to enhancing sports infrastructure and developing talent: Dy CM
JAMMU, Jan 10: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, accompanied by Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, officially opened the National Aerobic Gymnastics Championship 2024-25 at the New Indoor Stadium, M.A. Stadium in Jammu.
This championship is organized by the J&K Sports Council in partnership with the Gymnastics Federation of India and the Gymnastics Association of Jammu & Kashmir, attracting over 500 athletes and officials from 20 states, union territories, and boards. Taking place from January 10 to 13, the championship seeks to encourage youth participation in sports and create a platform for showcasing talent at both national and international levels. This initiative is part of the ongoing ‘My Youth My Pride’ and ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ campaigns, marking its third occurrence in J&K.
The Deputy Chief Minister praised the organizers for their efforts in hosting the championship and expressed pride in bringing a national sports event to J&K. He highlighted the significance of directing youth energy towards sports to tackle societal challenges such as drug abuse. “Our region’s future is anchored in the potential of our youth. By providing sports opportunities, we can cultivate promising careers and spark aspirations,” he stated. He extended his best wishes to all participants and acknowledged the efforts of those involved in organizing the event.
“The government is dedicated to advancing sports infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, and we are actively pursuing initiatives to nurture the talent of athletes and sports persons so they can compete at both national and international stages,” the Deputy Chief Minister affirmed.
The Advisor to the CM emphasized the vast talent pool in Olympic sports within J&K, including gymnastics, water sports, and martial arts. He expressed confidence that local athletes would achieve excellence in upcoming Asian and Olympic competitions. He reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritizing Olympic sports by improving infrastructure, training, and coaching to establish J&K as a prominent sports hub.
Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, Sarmad Hafeez, praised the accomplishments of J&K gymnasts during the event and assured full support for ensuring the championship’s success.
Sudhir Mittal, President of the Gymnastics Federation of India, acknowledged the steadfast support from the J&K government and commended the region’s progress in infrastructure and talent development for gymnastics.
The event also saw the presence of Director General of Youth Services and Sports, Rajinder Singh Tara, Secretary of the Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, Secretary Kiran Wattal, Vice President of GFI and President of the Gymnastics Association of J&K, along with other senior officials.
The championship will run until January 13, showcasing an impressive display of talent and athletic prowess.
