Bandipora, Sep 23 (KNS): Five days sports festival "Spirit of Freedom" for Girls was conducted by Bandipora's 14RR army under the aegis of Manasbal Sector was concluded on Wednesday here t Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium Bandipora. 

The sports festival for girls titled Desire to Fly; Let's Touch the Sky! Was started by Army's 14RR on September 18 and Subsequently concluded September 22.

An army spokesman said that the five day extravaganza was aimed at promoting sports and empowering women by providing an exclusive platform to showcase their talents. 

He said that the Civil Administration, JKP, CRPF and Local Awam were also taken on board for this initiative wherein sports were utilised to address social issues by empowering women & generating awareness.

"Major events conducted as part of the festival included North Kashmir Volleyball Premier League for Women, Bandipora District Girls Athletics Competition and Bandipora District Village Games Competition for Girls, " the army spokesman said. 

"Apart from these competitions, a multitude of activities geared towards generating awareness in various fields were also organised to include Folk Songs & Dance, Martial Arts Display, Felicitation of Women Achievers etc, " he said. 

He also said that the finals were held on 22 September 2021 and graced by Commander Manasbal Sector RR, CO Bandipora RR, DC Bandipora, CO 3rd Battalion CRPF, SSP Bandipora and various other dignitaries from Security Forces, Civil Administration & Local Schools.

The army said that the festival was first of its kind and impacted people from all walks of life with total numbers estimated to be in hundreds.

"It has generated awareness about Women Empowerment, Women's Rights & Sports with a view to encourage them to realise their full potential and achieve their dreams, " the army added. (KNS)