Tangmarg/Gulmarg, May 6: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday inaugurated a state-of-the-art multi-purpose indoor sports complex at Government Degree College (GDC) Tangmarg, developed at a cost of Rs 2.75 crore under the CAPEX budget, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and youth engagement across Jammu and Kashmir.
The newly established facility, located within the college premises, is equipped with modern indoor sports infrastructure, including arenas for badminton, table tennis, carrom, and billiards. The complex aims to promote a vibrant sports culture and encourage greater participation of youth in physical activities, particularly during harsh weather conditions in the region.
Minister for Education Sakina Itoo, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Gulmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmed Shah, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Commissioner Secretary Ram Niwas, Director Colleges, Principal GDC Tangmarg, and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister, as per an official statement, toured the complex and interacted with students. In a lively engagement, he also participated in indoor games including billiards, table tennis, and badminton alongside students and colleagues, drawing enthusiastic applause and appreciation from the gathering.
Earlier, the Chief Minister launched the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan signature campaign from the college premises, urging students to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our children are our future. We are making every possible effort to secure a brighter tomorrow for them, but it is equally important to prepare them for the responsibilities ahead. The development of Jammu and Kashmir in the coming years will largely depend on the role played by our youth,” he said.
Highlighting the challenges faced by students in accessing quality higher education within the region, Omar Abdullah noted that the lack of private universities had compelled many families to send their children outside Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in significant financial burden.
