Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology, Choudhary Lal Singh today said Government is working to upgrade the sports infrastructure with the revival of the rural sports in the State.Speaking at the inaugural ceremony Mufti Muhammad Sayeed Memorial Wrestling Tournament at Parade Ground here, Lal Singh said that efforts are on to turn the State into an attractive destination for the sports enthusiasts.He said Jammu and Kashmir is unique place with lush green meadows and gushing water bodies and any artist or sports personality would like to come and showcase their talent in such places. He however said that the infrastructure in the sports sector must be upgraded and Government is keen to see its youth representing the State at national and international arena.The Minister amid applause from the participating sportspersons said that sports should be make integral part of our everyday life. Sports are not only important for physical well-being but also for overall development of an individual.The Minister said that he recently inaugurated wrestling ring at Rajbagh in Kathua district, which he said would benefit the wrestlers of the area to hone their wrestling skills which will further help them to show their talent in competitions at various levels.
“Wrestling is a great example of rural sports and our youth should come forward to showcase their talent,” Singh said. He called for organizing more such events and providing opportunities for budding sportsmen who are interested to participate in the wrestling.The Minister further said that sportsmen strengthen the communal harmony which is essential for any society, state or nation to develop. The Minister said that wrestlers from all over the State and adjoining States like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh must be invited for State level and national events. “Sports are the only medium by which the youth can stay away from drug abuse and many other social evils besides developing leadership and sportsmanship among themselves,” he said.Complementing former Chief Minister, Late Mufti Muhammad Sayeed for his visionary role in shaping up the State’s developmental arena, the Minister said that that ‘Mufti sahib was an embodiment of visionary statesmanship and we have to ensure that his vision is realized in the State.” Several young and budding wrestlers participated in the maiden competition on this ring and desired to bring laurels to the state in National and International level.The Minister was accompanied by officials of Department of Forest and its allied wings among other officials of the district administration.