Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Nirmal Singh today exhorted upon the youth to actively participate in sports as helps in enhancing physical and mental health and shaping their overall personality .Dr Singh stated this after inaugurating the 5th Eid-Diwali Milan Cricket Tournament organized by Vishal Club and Simula Sports in collaboration with Jammu Police at Parade Ground here today.Addressing the players, Deputy Chief Minister said that government is taking various steps to upgrade the existing sports infrastructure in the state so that the talented youth will be provided all best possible sports facilities.Highlighting the special 200 crore package allocated from the Prime Minister's Development Package for boosting sports infrastructure in the state, Dr Singh said that this will engage youth in constructive sporting activities so that they can compete at national and international platforms.
Deputy Chief Minister further said that this package provides for construction of indoor sporting halls in all districts of the State with a view to provide sports facilities to youth throughout the year. Besides, two stadia in the State capitals of Srinagar and Jammu will be upgraded to the international standards.While endorsing Swami Vivekanand Ji’s views on the importance of physical fitness, Dr Singh said that “If you have a healthy body, everything becomes a lot easier besides you learn so much from playing in the field”.Dr Singh also lauded the efforts of Sports Council for providing platforms to the players to exhibit their talents in various sports activities. He also extended Diwali wishes to the players and people present on the occasion.A total of eight teams are participating in the tournament.It was informed to the Deputy Chief Minister that earlier Under-15 Cricket Tournament was organized in which students of 22 schools both Government and Private participated and later 18 best players among all were selected. All the selected players will be provided free coaching for four years to nurture their talent and cricket skills.