Excelsior Sports Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 31: The State of Jammu and Kashmir is rich in sports talent, especially, the youth of rural areas possess abundant energy, motor ability and athletic skill, which if honed properly, will go a long way in serving the State in winning medals at the National scene. For that mater, exploring sports talent of rural youth is the priority of the Government.
This was stated by Raman Bhalla, Minister for Housing, Horticulture, Culture and Youth Services and Sports, who was the chief guest during a prize distribution function of 1st Maharaja Ranjeet Singh Junior Gold Cup Hockey Tournament at Government High School ground, Simbal Camp, here today.
While lavishing praise for the organizers in holding the mega event, the Minister assured them that the ground were the event took place will be developed to a good sports facility at an earliest, to help the sportspersons of the area to fine tune their skills in varied sports disciplines.
Mr Bhalla further said that a massive campaign is underway to upgrade and develop sports infrastructure in nooks and corners of the State, adding that International standard stadia will be developed in both the regions of the State.
Earlier, Hiranagar Hockey Club defeated Zorawar Hockey Club by two goals to nil (2-0) in the summit clash to lift the title trophy. After the goalless first half, Suraj Singh of Hiranagar Club pelted the first goal in 52nd minute to give his side a much needed lead, which was followed by another goal scored by Vishal Verma in the 55th minute. Finally, Hiranagar Club won the match by (2-0). The chief guest distributed prizes among the winners and runners-up teams on the occasion.
The match was officiated by National Umpire, P P Singh, Daljeet Bhatia, Parshotam Lal and Jagjeet Singh Reen.
DIG BSF, SM Mehta was the guest of honour on the occasion, while prominent among others who were present on the occasion were Gurvinder Singh Vicky, Netar Bhandari, Ravinder Singh, Charanjeet Singh, Manjeet Singh, Amarjeet Singh and Ramneek Singh.
Meanwhile, Young Star Hockey Club honoured Devinder Pal Singh, International In-line Hockey Player and Sher-e-Kashmir Awardee during the prize distribution function of the tournament. He was presenting a trophy by Minister for Sports for his outstanding performance at the National and International Level.
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