Kupwara witnessed an electrifying celebration of women’s strength, skill, and spirit as the ASMlTA Khelo India Women’s Rugby League 2025 took center stage at the Galizoo Stadium, Kupwara on 4th October 2025.
The event brought together around 150 spirited female athletes from across the district, each displaying remarkable courage and sportsmanship. The lush green field of Kupwara turned into a battlefield of passion and teamwork as players competed fiercely across three categories , Under 15, Under 18, and Senior Women.
ASMlTA, which stands for “Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women through Action,” truly lived up to its name. The league was not just a competition , it was a movement, a celebration of women rising beyond barriers, and a powerful statement that Kupwara’s daughters are ready to conquer every field.
🎖️ CLOSING CEREMONY HONOURS
The closing ceremony was graced by Mr. Yassir Ahmad (SHO Kupwara) as the Chief Guest, who applauded the participants for their discipline, determination, and courage. He was joined by Mr. Ab Ahad (Scout Officer, District Youth Services & Sports Kupwara) and Ms. Neelofar Sadiq, a prominent volleyball player, as the Guests of Honour, both of whom commended the young girls for embracing rugby with enthusiasm and dedication.
In his remarks, Mr. Yassir Ahmad stated, “Kupwara’s young women have proved that true strength lies in mindset and determination. The passion and discipline shown on this field today are an inspiration for the entire district.”
🏆 RESULTS THAT MADE KUPWARA PROUD
Under-15 Category:
🥇 Lightning Strikers Kupwara — 1st Place
🥈 Doon International Batergam — 2nd Place
🥉 Scientific School Tikker — 3rd Place
Under-18 Category:
🥇 Thunder Hawks — 1st Place
🥈 Elite Educational Institute — 2nd Place
🥉 MNS Wolves — 3rd Place
Senior Women’s Category:
🥇 Kins Rugby Club Kupwara — 1st Place
🥈 Kupwara Beaters — 2nd Place
🥉 GSA Kupwara — 3rd Place
SPECIAL THANKS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The success of the ASMlTA Khelo India Women’s Rugby League 2025 was made possible through the combined efforts and guidance of several key institutions and organizations that continue to empower young athletes across India.
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, deserve immense appreciation for their vision under the Khelo India initiative , encouraging girls from every corner of the nation to pursue sports fearlessly and confidently.
Their unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment through sport has brought life-changing opportunities to regions like Kupwara. A heartfelt thanks goes to Rugby India, the governing body for rugby in the country, for its consistent efforts in promoting rugby at the grassroots level.
Under their leadership, rugby has evolved into a sport of strength, strategy, and inclusivity, capturing the hearts of youth across Jammu & Kashmir. Special recognition is also extended to Jammu & Kashmir Rugby Association (JK Rugby) and the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council for their relentless support, training initiatives, and continued efforts in nurturing sports talent within the UT.
Their collaboration has created new pathways for athletes to rise to the national and international stage. And a very special note of gratitude to Kupwara Rugby — the local powerhouse behind this event.
Their coaches, volunteers, and coordinators worked tirelessly to make this league a resounding success. Their dedication, teamwork, and passion for the game have turned Kupwara into one of the emerging hubs for women’s rugby in North India.
Together, these organizations have done more than host a league , they have sparked a movement of empowerment, showing that when women play, the whole community wins. As the sun set over the majestic hills of Kupwara, the cheers, laughter, and determination of the athletes painted an unforgettable picture of hope and empowerment.
The ASMlTA Khelo India Women’s Rugby League 2025 ended on a triumphant note , with medals, smiles, and a promise that this is just the beginning of a brighter, bolder future for women’s rugby in Jammu & Kashmir.Kupwara’s daughters have shown the world that when women step onto the field they don’t just play the game, they change it.