Doda, Dec 25: The closing ceremony of the Sansad Khel Mahautsav, organised under the theme “Yuva for Viksit Bharat”, was held at the Conference Hall of the DC Office Complex, here, in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Doda.
The three-month-long sports extravaganza, as per DYSS statement issued on Thursday, was organised by the District Administration Doda in collaboration with the District Youth Services and Sports Department. The event commenced on 21 September 2025 and culminated on 25 December 2025, with the objective of promoting sports culture and youth empowerment across the district.
While speaking about the importance of such sports activities, Director General, Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Anuradha Gupta, said, “Sports are not just about physical prowess; they are a powerful tool for building character, discipline, and resilience. Initiatives like the Sansad Khel Mahautsav are the bedrock for nurturing future leaders and fostering a spirit of teamwork essential for a ‘Viksit Bharat’. When we invest in our youth through sports, we are investing in the nation’s holistic development and vitality.”
The ceremony was attended by PO ICDS Doda Akhtar Hussain Qazi, Joint Director Education Doda Asfaq Khanzi, CPO Doda Manesh Kumar Manhas, along with officers and officials of the Youth Services and Sports Department, students, and sportspersons. A live telecast of the national closing ceremony was displayed on a big screen, during which the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India addressed the gathering and motivated young sportspersons to strive for excellence in sports as well as in life.
During the interaction, sportspersons from various disciplines including volleyball, cricket, kho-kho, kabaddi, taekwondo, shooting, basketball, and wrestling highlighted issues affecting sports activities in the district. The Deputy Commissioner assured timely redressal of the concerns raised and directed the concerned officers to take concrete steps to improve sports infrastructure, coaching facilities, and overall performance at the zonal, district, state, and national levels.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the identification and appointment of suitable male and female coaches, with special emphasis on appointing a dedicated volleyball coach at the district headquarters. He also instructed the preparation of two cricket pitches at Government Degree College Doda and Sports Stadium Doda, procurement of a bowling machine, identification of a kho-kho ground at Government Boys Higher Secondary School Doda, and development of infrastructure for wrestling and kabaddi at the newly constructed hall in the New DC Office Complex.
Outstanding sportspersons were felicitated with trophies, and participants were encouraged to continue their academic pursuits alongside sports, reflecting the commitment towards nurturing disciplined and empowered youth in the district.
