As part of the Khelo India initiative, the Indian Army organized a women’s snow cricket competition on Thursday, February 16, 2023, in the Panzgam village of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district. Young females from the Kupwara district enthusiastically participated in the tournament, playing matches in the snowy fields. The event featured four teams from Kralpora and Meelyal Block, with the young girls representing their respective teams. This was the first such tournament to be held in the area, and it was witnessed by public representatives and locals, according to the Army.
The Indian Army has been regularly organizing similar events, which have been widely appreciated. These initiatives aim to promote the development of society and bring about positive change, with a focus on encouraging participation in extracurricular activities and the development of skills through sports and competitions.
"Young women in North Kashmir showcase their talent in the first-ever women’s snow cricket competition organized by the Indian Army as part of the Khelo India initiative."
The Indian Army organized a first-of-its-kind women’s snow cricket tournament in the Kashmir Valley. The event took place in the Panzgam village of the Kupwara district, and it witnessed enthusiastic participation from four teams from Kralpora and Meelyal Blocks. The tournament was a unique initiative that showcased the community’s passion for sports and encouraged girls to participate in winter sports. It was attended by public representatives and locals from the area, who witnessed the girls’ enthusiasm and passion for the game. The tournament was the first winter sports tournament for girls in the area, and it was a significant milestone for the development of sports in the region.
A spokesperson from the Indian Army stated that such initiatives have seen widespread participation of local women in the area. The Indian Army has been conducting frequent events in Kupwara to promote extracurricular activities and sports, such as establishing skill development centres and organizing competitions in schools. These initiatives have brought about a positive change in the region, and the Army is committed to playing an active role in encouraging sports among local youth in the Kashmir Valley.
The Women’s Snow Cricket Tournament is a testament to the Indian Army’s commitment to promoting sports and extracurricular activities in the region. The initiative has not only provided a platform for young girls to showcase their talent but has also encouraged them to take up sports and engage in physical activities, which are essential for their overall development. Such events will help promote sports culture in the region and provide a significant boost to the growth of sports in the Kashmir Valley.
Role of the Indian Army
The Indian Army described the Women’s Snow Cricket Tournament as a first-of-its-kind event in Kupwara district, where young girls played cricket on a snowy field, demonstrating their community’s passion for sports. The Army observed that the girls played with great enthusiasm and passion, and public representatives and locals from the area witnessed the first-ever winter sports tournament for girls in this area. Additionally, the Indian Army has been organizing frequent events in Kupwara and other parts of the Kashmir Valley, which have seen widespread participation by local women, including competitions in schools and skill development centers. The Army is committed to playing a role in encouraging sports among local youth in the Kashmir Valley.
The Indian Army’s efforts to promote sports and extracurricular activities among local youth, particularly girls, have been widely appreciated by the community. The Army’s initiatives, such as organizing sports events and establishing skill development centers, have played a crucial role in bringing about positive changes in the region.
The Women’s Snow Cricket Tournament is just one example of the Army’s commitment to promoting sports and physical fitness among local youth. Such events not only encourage young girls to participate in sports but also provide a platform for them to showcase their skills and talent. The Army believes that the development of sports and extracurricular activities is essential for the holistic development of youth, as it helps build character, self-discipline, and teamwork. By promoting sports and physical fitness, the Indian Army hopes to instill a sense of pride, self-confidence, and leadership among local youth, empowering them to become responsible and productive members of society.
What Was the Response of Residents Towards the Initiative?
The locals and public representatives who witnessed the tournament were appreciative of the Indian Army’s efforts in organizing such events, which not only provide an opportunity for the youth to showcase their talents but also bring about a positive change in society. Choudhary Mushtaq, a local resident, expressed his gratitude, stating that such events allow young girls to participate in national and international tournaments and urging parents to encourage their daughters to take part in these competitions.
The players also expressed their excitement and enthusiasm to participate in the snow cricket tournament. Saira Bashir, a player who participated in the tournament, expressed her gratitude to the Indian Army for providing them with the opportunity to participate in such an event. Mir Bushra, another player, stated that she enjoyed playing the game and hoped that such programs would continue to bring out the hidden talent of girls.
The Indian Army’s efforts to encourage sports amongst local youth, including the establishment of skill development centres and organizing competitions in schools, have seen widespread participation from local women. Naseema Bano, a player from the village of Dardpora, expressed her gratitude to the Indian Army for conducting the tournament and encouraged others to participate in such events to prove their talent and move ahead in their lives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Indian Army’s Women’s Snow Cricket Tournament in the Panzgam village of North Kashmir in the Kupwara district under the Khelo India initiative was a first-of-its-kind event in the area and witnessed widespread participation from local women. The tournament showcased the community’s passion for sports and allowed young girls to play cricket on a snowy field. Public representatives and locals from the area were present to witness the event, and many expressed their gratitude to the Indian Army for organizing such events that bring positive changes to the community. The Army is committed to playing a role in encouraging sports among local youth and has established skill development centres and organized competitions in schools to promote participation in extracurricular activities and sports.