R.S. Pura, Oct (KNS): Minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, and Science and Technology Satish Sharma on Tuesday attended a traditional Dangal at Bana Singh Stadium in R.S. Pura on the eve of Dussehra.

Organised by the Dangal Committee, R.S. Pura, the event witnessed participation of wrestlers from different regions and attracted a large gathering of sports enthusiasts. More than 100 bouts were held during the competition.

Shera Gujjar of Haryana won the main bout, while Bhupinder Ajnala of Punjab finished as runner-up. The winner received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, while the runner-up was awarded Rs 80,000. A first maali carrying a prize of Rs 1.80 lakh was also among the major attractions. Overall, cash prizes exceeding Rs 6 lakh were distributed among the participating wrestlers.

Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma appreciated the Dangal Committee for preserving and promoting traditional wrestling, describing indigenous sports as an important part of Jammu and Kashmir's cultural heritage.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He stressed the need to encourage traditional sporting disciplines alongside modern sports, saying grassroots competitions provide opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talent and develop discipline, fitness and sportsmanship.

The minister reiterated the government's commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, encouraging youth participation and creating opportunities for talented sportspersons to excel at district, national and international levels.

He also said that participation by wrestlers from different regions promotes brotherhood, mutual respect and cultural exchange.

Former minister Sham Choudhary, former minister and Jatt Sabha president Manjeet Singh, SSP and international wrestler Dushyant Sharma, and Dushant Sharma of Vedika Restaurants were among those present at the event. (KNS)