J&K LG Manoj Sinha Inaugurates 6th Senior Pencak Silat Championship
GG News Bureau
Srinagar, 14th Oct. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the 6th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship, which brings together over 150 athletes from various countries.
In his address, the Lieutenant Governor thanked the sporting fraternity, jury members, and invited all guests to enjoy the hospitality and incredible sights of Jammu and Kashmir during the tournament.
“Over the next five days we will celebrate and honour the individual strength and sporting excellence,” the LG said.
He said the ongoing sporting events across the UT have inspired hopes and it is a sign of a robust sports culture in the society.
“In the last two years, we have formulated and implemented a strategic sports development plan which is paying us the dividend,” he added.
The Lt Governor said, better infrastructure, combined with experts and outstanding coaches, has resulted in a significant shift in training programs.
We have also implemented a new sports policy and offering attractive career options for the sportspersons, he added.
“Our sincere effort is to provide an environment of encouragement and adequate resources so that every talented sports person can give spectacular performance in the national and international events. We are committed to take every possible step to develop a strong winner’s instinct among our sportspersons,” the Lt Governor said.
LG Sinha said that sports is all about unifying the spirit of universal harmony and brotherhood.
“This championship should not be viewed as an event that is only about winning. Participation with the spirit of sportsmanship is important. As a one big united family, celebrate the success of others as much as you celebrate yours,” he said.
Noting that Pencak Silat is relatively new to India, having been introduced only in 2014, the Lt Governor stated that within a few years, Jammu and Kashmir has seen an increase in the performance of our athletes in national and international events, with 540 medals in national events and 17 medals in international events.
Last year, more than 1.7 million children and youths participated in various sporting disciplines and this year, the number is expected to go beyond 3.5 million. The overwhelming participation clearly indicates resurgence of sports in the Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir, he added.
Previously, the Lt Governor interacted with members of international Pencak Silat teams from Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, and Nepal.
Comments are closed.