Srinagar, Oct 06 (KNO): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday declared open the 69th National School Games at TRC Football Ground here amid rainfall. He assured all necessary arrangements, including warm clothes, to ensure the comfort and safety of the participants.
“The weather conditions are beyond our control. But, I warmly welcome all the participants to this tournament here on behalf of myself, my colleagues and the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Omar said.
The Chief Minister, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), assured that the participants or the teams, who have not prepared themselves and have not brought warm clothes with them amid the prevailing weather, can directly meet the officials here so that necessary arrangements are made.
He added that the government and organisers will make every effort to ensure the comfort and safety of the participants.
The CM said that sports play a vital role in fostering unity, friendship and understanding among young people from diverse regions of the country.
Omar cut short his speech on the occasion and encouraged the athletes to participate with full enthusiasm. “As the saying goes, winning is not as important as taking part. I sincerely appreciate your spirit and enthusiasm in coming here to participate,” he said, wishing the players memorable moments and success in the tournament.
The CM officially declared open the 69th National School Games by ceremonially kicking a football, marking the formal commencement of the national-level sporting event.
The opening ceremony was attended by Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed (Pardesi), Director General Youth Services & Sports Anuradha Gupta, Secretary J&K Sports Council Nuzhat Gul, and several other dignitaries and officials.
This year’s National School Games has drawn participation from 30 teams representing various States and Union Territories across the country, with matches scheduled to be played at six different venues. The events include competitions in Football, Wushu, Taekwondo, and Table Tennis—(KNO)