Jammu, Dec 10 (KNS): Governor Satya Pal Malik today inaugurated 64th National School Games - Football U 17 (Boys), in a function organized here at BSF Sports Stadium, Paloura.
In all, 37 teams from across India are participating in this 5 day Football tournament.
Welcoming the participants to this Tournament, Governor noted that Football is a very popular game with followers around the world and it is also loved by people here in J&K. He expressed his happiness in hosting teams from all over the country in this Tournament.
Emphasizing the crucial importance of sports for ensuring physical well being and overall personality development of youngsters, the Governor observed that such Tournaments provide platform to the youngsters to showcase their talent and excel in their chosen sports besides giving chance to interact and know people from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds and inculcate in them the values of sharing, discipline and team spirit.
The Governor complimented the Department of Youth Services and Sports, J&K, for hosting this Football tournament and wished all the participating teams very best of their playing. He urged them to enjoy the playing as much as they can and take home good memories of the Tournament and their stay here.
Earlier, the Governor Satya Pal Malik unfurled the School Games Federation of India’s Flag and took salute from the marching contingents of the players. A colorful cultural programme was presented on the occasion.
K. Vijay Kumar, Advisor to Governor welcomed the participating teams and gave his best wishes to the players.
Dr. Saleem-ur-Rehman, Director General YS&S and Organising Secretary of the Tournament presented a Welcome Address and Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary YS& S presented Vote of Thanks on the occasion.
Sanjeev Verma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Sh. Ram Awtar, IG BSF were present on the occasion. (KNS)