National Sports Day 2026 | Youth Engagement Month concludes with a strong message on sports, youth empowerment and a Drug-Free Ladakh
Drass, September 19, 2026: District Kargil emerged as the champion in both Boys’ and Girls’ categories as the National Sports Day 2026–Youth Engagement Month Volleyball Tournament concluded at Drass on Saturday, bringing an action-packed sporting event to a successful close.
In the Boys’ final, Kargil secured the winner’s title, while District Drass finished as runners-up. In the Girls’ category, Kargil once again emerged victorious, with District Sham claiming the runners-up position. The finals witnessed intense competition, discipline and impressive sportsmanship from all participating teams.
The closing ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner Drass Imteeaz Kacho, along with the Zonal Physical Education Officer, officials of the Youth Services & Sports Department, Zonal Education Officer, Child Development Project Officer, HCL Foundation Senior Programme Officer (Sports) Shubham Nautiyal, Muzammil Lone of Save the Children Fund, representatives of the Volleyball Association and other stakeholders and sports enthusiasts.
Following the finals, the Deputy Commissioner distributed trophies and certificates among the winners and runners-up. He interacted with the players, congratulated them on their performances and appreciated their discipline, enthusiasm and sporting spirit.
Addressing the gathering, Imteeaz Kacho congratulated all participants and appreciated the efforts of the Youth Services & Sports Department in organising the tournament. He said that the youth of Drass possess considerable interest and potential in sports and expressed hope that more sporting events would be organised in the region in the future.
The Deputy Commissioner encouraged young people to actively participate in sports and make full use of the opportunities and facilities available to them. He also urged them to stay away from drugs and substance abuse, calling upon the younger generation to contribute towards the vision of a Drug-Free Ladakh.
Emphasising environmental responsibility, Kacho appealed to the youth to minimise the use of plastic, promote cleanliness and spread awareness about responsible waste management in their villages and communities.
He also appreciated the contribution of the Departments of Information, Public Health Engineering, Public Works, Power, Youth Services & Sports and other concerned departments and stakeholders for ensuring the smooth and professional conduct of the tournament.
The tournament concluded with the distribution of prizes, leaving behind a strong message of sportsmanship, youth participation, healthy living, environmental responsibility and a Drug-Free Ladakh.
