Jammu, July 25: In a landmark achievement that has brought immense pride to the Department of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, ace athlete and Physical Education Lecturer Nirmal Singh has become the first-ever sportsperson from J&K to be nominated as a Technical Official in the prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze, scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on August 10.A statement issued here said that to be the first in any field is no small feat and Singh’s nomination is a moment of celebration not just for DYSS and the UT administration, but also for his school, colleagues, and the wider sporting fraternity. Currently posted at Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Bishnah, Nirmal Singh is a certified NS NIS Athletics coach and a former outstanding athlete of Jammu and Kashmir. Over the years, he has brought accolades to the region—first as a player at the national level, and later as an official who has consistently excelled at national and international events. His credentials are underscored by a string of prestigious honours, including the State Award, Rangil Singh Sports Award, Parshuram Award, and the Prof Chaman Lal Gupta Khel Ratna Award. His illustrious officiating career includes roles at the Junior SAF Camp 2015, the Asian Athletics Championship, and numerous National Games and allied events. Renowned for his organisational and administrative prowess, Mr Singh has also played a key role in mentoring young athletes and guiding departmental activities with utmost dedication. His impactful presence was notably felt during the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue held as part of the National Youth Festival earlier this year, where he served as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring sportspersons. This historic nomination is not only a personal milestone for Mr Singh but also a symbol of J&K’s growing footprint in global athletics. His journey stands as a testament to hard work, perseverance, and excellence in both sport and service.