The 68th National School Games in Fencing got underway today with a vibrant opening ceremony held at the Gymnasium Hall, University of Jammu. The event was inaugurated by the Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Jammu & Kashmir, Satish Sharma, marking the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling competition. A total of 21 State and Union Territory teams from across the country have gathered to participate in this prestigious tournament, which is being organized by the Department of Youth Services and Sports (YS&S), J&K, under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI).
In his address, Satish Sharma emphasized the importance of sportspersons managing sports organizations. He highlighted that only individuals with a genuine passion for sports should be in leadership roles to ensure better outcomes for athletes. The Minister reassured the participants that the government remains committed to nurturing sporting talent and reiterated that no individual or group would be allowed to politicize sports. He also expressed his gratitude to the parents, coaches, and sports teachers whose continuous support plays a critical role in the success of young athletes.
Nurturing Talent and Promoting Values
Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary of Youth Services and Sports, spoke about the department’s dedication to fostering talent from the grassroots level. He underlined the significance of instilling values such as leadership, discipline, and perseverance in young athletes. Rajinder Singh Tara, Director General of YS&S, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing how such events not only promote sports but also foster unity, cultural exchange, and brotherhood among children from diverse backgrounds.
Other dignitaries present at the opening ceremony included Jatindra Mishra, Deputy Director of Central YS&S, and Daud Iqbal Baba, Director of Sports at the University of Jammu.
Jammu & Kashmir Clinches Gold on Opening Day
The competition started on a high note for the host state, Jammu & Kashmir, which made an impressive debut by winning a gold medal in the Under-14 Girls’ Sabre Team event. The victorious team, which clinched the top spot in the competition, comprised Eknoor Kour, Shrija Bali, Sabrena Choudhary, and Janell Mattoo. The silver medal in this event went to Haryana, while Punjab and Gujarat shared the bronze medals.
The opening day’s success in fencing highlights the growing sporting talent in Jammu & Kashmir and sets the stage for more exciting action in the coming days of the competition.
The opening day’s success in fencing highlights the growing sporting talent in Jammu & Kashmir and sets the stage for more exciting action in the coming days of the competition.
