Ganderbal, Oct 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah officially inaugurated the 70th National School Games on Thursday at the Government College of Physical Education, Gadoora, in Ganderbal district.
The multi-sport event, organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS) in collaboration with the School Games Federation of India (SGFI), brings together nearly 3000 young athletes, coaches, and officials from across the country.
Accompanied by Youth Services and Sports Minister Satish Sharma, Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, SSP Ganderbal and other senior officials, Chief Minister Abdullah declared the games open amidst enthusiastic cheer from visiting student-athletes representing states and Union Territories nationwide.
Addressing the grand opening ceremony, CM Abdullah emphasised the transformative role of sports in building discipline, fostering teamwork, and promoting unity. “ Sports play a vital role in developing self-confidence, discipline, and leadership among our youth. Events like the National School Games not only showcase athletic talent at the grassroots level but also build enduring bridges of friendship and harmony among young people from every corner of India.”
Addressing the participants, the Chief Minister urged them to compete with determination, uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and build lasting friendships. He highlighted the power of sports to instil discipline, nurture confidence and empower young people across the country.
The Chief Minister highlighted the J&K Government’s ongoing commitment to building world-class sports infrastructure.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Youth Services and Sports Satish Sharma assured that the administration has ensured comprehensive arrangements—including safe accommodations, top-tier venues, and modern equipment—for all visiting contingents. Local sports officials and community members welcomed the national-level event, noting that hosting the 70th edition of the games will inspire Jammu & Kashmir’s local youth to pursue sports professionally and excel on national and international stages.
Officials said that Jammu and Kashmir is hosting nine sporting events in four disciplines from October 15 to 27, with over 3000 athletes and officials expected to participate in the events. They said that Jammu & Kashmir is hosting major events, including Wushu and Taekwondo disciplines in the Kashmir region and Fencing and Cricket in the Jammu region. The events include under-17 Wushu and Taekwondo competitions in Ganderbal from October 15 to 27, and under-17 and under-19 fencing and under-17 cricket competitions in Jammu from Nov 15- Dec 27. The competitions are part of the National School Games programme organised under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India (SGFI). “ Hundreds of elite young athletes, coaches, and sports officials from states and Union Territories across the nation are currently converging on Ganderbal. The fortnight-long championship will see competitors testing their mettle, discipline, and sportsmanship in two of the country’s most rapidly growing martial arts disciplines Wushu & Taekwondo “ officials said.
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