Leh: The Ladakh UT Administration is preparing a Sports Policy to recognise and reward deserving sportspersons and coaches, encouraging greater youth participation in sports, said Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 7-a-side League Tournament organised by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) under the theme ‘Ladakh Says No to Drugs’ at the Astro-turf Football Stadium in Spituk, LG Gupta highlighted the need to honour athletes who bring laurels to Ladakh by winning medals at national and international levels.
He noted that neighbouring states like Haryana and Punjab already reward their sportspersons, a practice now being adopted in Ladakh through the new Sports Policy. LG Gupta also stressed the importance of recognising coaches who play a crucial role in nurturing young athletes beyond athletic skills.
Praising the Khelo India initiative launched by the Prime Minister, he called it a landmark programme for harnessing youth potential, promoting fitness, discipline, and teamwork.
LG Gupta highlighted Ladakh’s unique weather conditions, which have made the region a hub for ice hockey, one of the most popular sports among Ladakhi youth. He assured that the administration will provide necessary facilities and equipment across various disciplines to help youth compete at national and international levels, provided they commit to working hard.
He also commended ABVP Ladakh for organising the tournament in support of the ‘Ladakh Says No to Drugs’ campaign.
The event was attended by Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, Prof Saket Kushwaha; Director of NISR, Dr. Padma Gurmet; District Youth Services & Sports Officer, Leh, Tsering Tashi; ABVP officials; and students from EJM College Leh.
