Kishtwar, June 04: The maiden 7-Day CVPPL Kishtwar Football Cup- 2023, organized by the District Administration Kishtwar, in collaboration with the District Youth Services and Sports Department and sponsored by Chenab Valley Power Projects (CVPPL), was officially inaugurated here on Sunday in the Chowgan Grounds.
The inauguration of “CVPPL Kishtwar Football Cup 2023” makes a historic event as it is for the first-time a football tournament has been organized by the District Administration in collaboration with CVPPL wherein the Teams from across the UT and other states including Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh are participating.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Devansh Yadav as the chief guest. Senior Superintendent of Police, Khalil Ahmed Poswal and Sajjad Ahmed Najjar, President of the Municipal Council Kishtwar were the guests of honor.
Special guests included HOP CVPPL Ramesh Mukhiya; GM NHIDCL G S Sahu, besides other HEPP authorities, President Senior Citizens Forum Kishtwar Roshan Lal Parihar and SHO Abid Bukhari.
Besides all teams, the sports fraternity of DYSSO office, Students of Kishtwar Heritage School, and prominent citizens and sports lovers attended the event.
At the opening ceremony, DYSSO, K.L. Sharma, along with the sports staff, warmly welcomed the Chief Guest and other dignitaries by presenting bouquets .
The program commenced with the lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries, symbolizing the inauguration followed by speeches by dignitaries.
The DYSSO gave an introductory briefing about the tournament, highlighting the initiatives undertaken by the District Administration, particularly the efforts put in by Dr. Devansh Yadav, to promote cricket and football sports in the district.
These initiatives include the construction of turf pitches in remote areas of Kishtwar, special coaching and guidance sessions by UT level sports experts and recent visits to Kishtwar by renowned players such as Shubham Khajuria . These endeavors provided an appropriate platform to the youth to showcase and nurture their talents.
In his address, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar expressed his heartfelt welcome to all the teams from Kashmir, Jammu, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized that this historic inter-state sports event is a significant milestone for Kishtwar and announced that the Inter State football tournament will be held annually from now on to bring Kishtwar on the national football map. He said sprawling Chowgan grounds provided an advantage for holding such sports events in the region.
He further stressed the importance of sportsmanship and discipline, considering these events as great opportunities for the development of such qualities among the participants.
The Deputy Commissioner extended his appreciation to the Sports Department, CVPPL and all other stakeholders for the efficient organization of the event within a short span of time. Furthermore, he administered the World Environment Day pledge to all present, highlighting the significance of environmental conservation.
Speaking on the occasion, SSP Kishtwar commended the initiative of the District Administration and shed light on the numerous health benefits of sports in an individual’s life. He emphasized the importance of games in shaping careers and encouraged the youth to avail themselves of such opportunities to acquire valuable skills. The SSP also informed the audience about an upcoming Weightlifting Championship scheduled to be held by the Police Administration on 10th and 11th June, urging everyone to participate.
Recognizing the initiative of the District Administration to promote sports to curb the menace of drug abuse, President Municipal Council Kishtwar Sajjad Najjar assured full support from the Municipal Body. He also appealed to the citizens of Kishtwar to cooperate with the authorities in making Kishtwar a plastic-free city.
As part of the ceremony, a patriotic Song was presented by Bansi Lal ji, a local Singer and mentor of Kishtwar Idol.
Later, the dignitaries interacted with team members, offering their best wishes for the matches.
Two matches were played today between Lone Star Kashmir and Jammu FC in the first session and between Kashmir FC and Sudeva Delhi FC in the 2nd session.
