Ganderbal, Oct 22: The 70th National School Games 2026-27 in Taekwondo began Thursday at the Government College of Physical Education (GCOPE), Ganderbal.
Earlier competition in Wushu were held at the same venue marking Jammu and Kashmir’s return as host for a national-level school sports extravaganza again.
The five-day sporting event features U-17 boys’ and girls’ competitions in Taekwondo, participation of 800 to 1,000 players and officials. Senior Superintendent of Police Ganderbal Harshal Mahajan inaugurated the Taekwondo event.
Additional Secretary Youth services and sports Tina Mahajan and other officials were present. The competitions are being organised by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, J&K under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI).
J&K is hosting four disciplines comprising nine events — Wushu and Taekwondo in Kashmir from October 15 to 27, and Fencing and Cricket (U-17 girls) in Jammu at Khel Gaon, Nagrota from November 15 to December 27. “It is a proud moment for J&K to host the 70th National School Games in Ganderbal. We are ensuring facilities for over 1,000 participants,” says Tinna Mahajan, Additional Secretary, Youth Services and Sports
SSP Ganderbal Harshal Mahajan said that “Sports plays a vital role in instilling discipline, building confidence and opening new avenues for young people,” he said, urging participants to compete with determination and uphold sportsmanship. Local sports officials said hosting the 70th edition will inspire J&K youth to pursue sports professionally and excel at national and international stages.
