Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 17: Today, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha celebrated the Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta Khel Ratna Award 2024 ceremony, honoring the recipients of this esteemed sports recognition. He also paid homage to Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta.
In his speech, the Lieutenant Governor extended his congratulations to the distinguished athletes and sports officials receiving this year’s awards.
“The sports personalities honored today exemplify the positive transformations occurring in J&K. I am assured that they will dedicate themselves to bringing glory to the nation through their achievements and inspiring the younger generation,” he stated.
Reflecting on Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta’s legacy, the Lieutenant Governor recalled the former Union Minister’s lifelong commitment to the welfare of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. “The impressive progress that J&K UT has experienced in recent years is a tribute to his legacy,” he remarked.
“Sports act as a powerful agent of positive change, bridging cultures and communities. Currently, J&K is emerging as a central hub for both national and international sports events. Our enhanced focus on developing state-of-the-art sports facilities and nurturing young talent has transformed the sports landscape in J&K,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed the Government’s pledge, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, to support and nurture the rising sports talents in J&K.
He emphasized that the dynamic sports ecosystem is fulfilling the aspirations of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir.
The new sports policy has ignited greater hope for aspiring athletes. Last year, we recorded participation from 53 lakh children and youth across various sports disciplines, with 30,000 players from Jammu and Kashmir engaging in national and zonal tournaments, and 46 athletes representing India in international competitions, he noted.
“Our vision is to make J&K the leading region for sports and a powerhouse in various disciplines. I believe our athletes will uphold the tradition of success and courage in national and international competitions to achieve this vision,” concluded the Lieutenant Governor.
He also acknowledged the vital roles played by the Sports Department, Sports Council, and various stakeholders in promoting sports within J&K.
Present at the event were Arun Gupta, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu; Anil Gupta, President of the J&K Amateur Kabaddi Association; members of the Vansh Sabre Sports Foundation, renowned sports figures, and representatives from multiple sports associations. Additionally, Sanjeev Verma, Commissioner Secretary of the General Administration Department; Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary of the Youth Services and Sports Department; Nuzhat Gul, Secretary of the J&K Sports Council; and other senior officials were in attendance.
