Highlighting the role of sports in overall development of an individual, the Deputy Chief Minister, Dr. Nirmal Singh has said that several measures have been taken by the Government to augment and upgrade the sports infrastructure in the state. He said mega sports tournaments are now being organized in the State regularly to groom the sports talent among the local youth.The Deputy Chief Minster was speaking at the concluding function of Hiranagar Gold Cup Football Tournament.While highlighting the role of youth in nation building, Dr Singh said that they should channelize their energies and activities towards making India a global power as they constitute a major chunk of the population. He said that our thinkers and philosophers like Swami Vivekananda also projected the importance of youth in making India a strong and prosperous country and had urged them to come forward and contribute their bit. "The message is more relevant today and onus lies on our younger generation to play their role to ensure that our country comes up as a global power in every field,” he added.
“The purpose of organizing the event was truly accomplished as great zeal and enthusiasm was observed among the youth who participated in the tournament. The spirit, with which teams played, truly portrayed their level of commitment, team work and dedication towards football. In future also we will ensure that such opportunities are provided to the youth as it brings affinity and awareness about sports and teamwork among them,” Deputy Chief Minister maintained.He said such events should be encouraged as they help aspiring sportspersons to pursue careers in their favorite game. He said all the issues related to the sports of Hiranagar would be taken up with concerned. He said to give the sports activities a fillip, indoor sports stadium is coming up at Billawar, which would be having all the requisite and modern facilities.The event was organized by Hiranagar Football Club in association with Shakti Punj, NGO.Ravi Terriers (Territorial Army) Sujanpur of Punjab lifted the Hiranagar Gold Cup Football Tournament outplaying Param Football Club by maiden goal in the final match that concluded at the Sports stadium, Hiranagar. In all 12 teams took part in this tournament.MLA Hiranagar, Kuldeep Raj, Vice President J&K Football Association, Dr Nirmolak Singh, and members of Shakti Punj, NGO were also present during the final match of the tournament.