Valley has ample opportunities for water sports activities: Bhalla

Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 19: Saying that Kashmir valley has ample opportunities and avenues for water sports activities, Minister for Horticulture, Housing and Youth Services and Sports, Raman Bhalla today said that Government has launched a massive sports activities  across the State to provide the sports platform to the budding players  so that they can prove their mettle in the national and global level competitions.
The Minister was addressing a large gathering of sports lovers, tourists and local people after inaugurating 3-days water sports event organized by J&K State Sports Council at Nehru Park in the world famous Dal Lake.
During the event various sports competitions including Kayaking, Canoeing, dragon boat, Cano polo will be held in which about 400 participants will exhibit their talent.
On the occasion, the Minister witnessed the various water sports events including water dragon boat race, water surfing, water skiing
Expressing his views on the occasion, the Minister said that Kashmir is really a paradise on earth. Lakes and rivers in Kashmir offer more than an enjoyable view,  which, in fact, attract a large crowd of adventure lovers looking for activity-oriented vacations and discovering new ways to enjoy the outdoors in Kashmir. He said that the valley is fertile in talent which needs proper channel, guidance and platform.
Mr. Bhalla said Kashmir is blessed with the natural advantage of mountains, lakes, and rivers that offer ample chances for water sports and activities. He said water bodies not only enhance the beauty of this valley but are among the prime tourist attractions that lure thousands of tourists to all year tourist destination and government is moving ahead to take maximum benefit from these natural blessings.
He said water sport has great scope in valley and creation of necessary infrastructure has been given focused attention by the present Government to boost these activities.
Secretary, J&K State Sports Council, Dalip Thussu Joint Secretary J&K State Sports Council, Sports officers of Jammu and Kashmir Divisions besides other officers of YSS were also present on the occasion.