The District Administration Budgam, in collaboration with Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Budgam today organised a first of its kind Senior Citizens Sports Competition at DIET Beerwah in Budgam.Living truly to this adage “Age is just a Number”, hundreds of Senior citizens both men and women participated in events including Kabaddi, Tug of War, Chess, Carrom, Skipping Rope, Hopscotch with full enthusiasm and energy.
Various cultural programs inclduing skits were presented by the local, renowned artists to raise awareness against drugs and other social evils and highlighted the importance of sports for a happy and healthy life.The performances also focused on the role of elders and parents towards society and curbing the drug menace with proper guidance and vigil on their wards.
Speaking as a chief guest, Deputy Commissioner (DC), Budgam, S F Hamid highlighted the importance of sports in all age groups to remain both mentally as well as physically fit.He said that the District Administration Budgam is committed to take these events at village level also under the ongoing ambitious Khelo- India programme to ensure maximum participation of people in sports activities no matter what their age is.
DC said that overwhelming participation of senior citizens in today’s competition is a testimony to the fact that the people of Budgam are committed to the development and path of prosperity.He said that sports not only helps to keep us hale and healthy but also keep our youth away from drugs and other social evils.
DC said that senior citizens are important part of society, having say to council and motivate youth to participate in sports, cultural or any adventurous activities, and save them falling prey to drug abuse. He also urged parents to keep tight vigil on their wards to ensure they remain away from drugs.
On the occasion, the DC also distributed trophies among the participating senior citizens for their exemplary performances in a series of sports disciplines.DYSSO, Budgam, Gurmukh Singh Dutta, while presenting welcome address on the occasion, appreciated senior citizens who thronged the venue in good numbers to mark their participation in the competition.
Among others, SDM Beerwah, Taufeeq Gazi, Principal DIET, Tehsildar, BDO, AD Planning, Mirwaiz Central KashmirMoulvi Abdul Latief and other officers and PRIs were also present on the occasion.