67th National School Games illuminate Bakshi Stadium with sporting spirit

LG Manoj Sinha hails India’s emerging athletic excellence

Srinagar, Oct 31 : As a showcase of national pride and unwavering sporting enthusiasm, the Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar was set aglow with energy on Tuesday as the 67th National School Games were officially inaugurated.

On the occasion, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha underscored the remarkable growth of India’s sports culture and the emergence of talented athletes hailing from every corner of the nation.

According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the national flag waved proudly in the wind at this grand international sports arena, with LG Sinha celebrating the ascendancy of exceptional sportspersons from humble villages and towns, with these young athletes, who have not only left their mark but have achieved excellence in international sporting events through their spectacular performances, are living testaments to India’s athletic prowess.

Speaking to KNO, the athletes said that every sunrise symbolises an opportunity to demonstrate that talent knows no boundaries. “The spirit of these young athletes from various states exemplifies the unifying force of sports in India, where dedication and hard work have transcended regional limits to bring laurels to the nation,” one of the athletes said.

Amidst the cheering crowd and the fluttering national flag, the athletes, hailing from diverse backgrounds, shared their thoughts on the grand stage. Rohan Kumar, a young athlete from Kerala, said, “I’m proud to represent my state and my country on this prestigious platform, and it’s a dream come true. I’m ready to give my best for the team and the nation.”

Another athlete from Assam, Ria Sharma, highlighted the power of determination, saying, “Coming from a small town, I never thought I’d make it here, but with hard work and unwavering support from my family, I stand here today, ready to compete with the best.”

The Lieutenant Governor on the occasion highlighted the recent successes at the Asian Games and Asian Para Games which he said have ignited high hopes for further transformation and new heights in the Olympics.

“Jammu and Kashmir has embarked on a new journey towards fostering sports and nurturing a sports culture. The development plan includes the creation of adequate infrastructure, integrating sports as an integral part of the educational curriculum, providing access to experts, outstanding coaching, and, most importantly, offering opportunities to talented individuals across the Union Territory,” the LG said—(KNO)