SRINAGAR, JUNE 24 (KNO) : Governor N.N. Vohra and First Lady Mrs. Usha Vohra attended the concluding day function of Chinar Youth Sports and Adventure Activity- 2018, organized by Hqrs XV Corps, in collaboration with State Sports Department, Water Sports Association and Sports Club, at the Nehru Park in Dal Lake. Lt. Gen A.K. Bhat, GoC 15 Corps; Dr. S.P. Vaid, DGP; Maj. Gen. R Ravi, GoC Area Hqrs; Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Dr Sehrish Asgar, DC Budgam; Sh. Swayam Prakash Pani, IGP Kashmir; Sh. Firdous Tak, President J&K Water Sports Association were among the many dignitaries present on the occasion. In the concluding function the final races of Dragon Boat, Kayaking and Chinar Shikara Cup Race enthralled the audience. This initative of the Indian Army, under Operation Sadhbhavana, is designed to promote water sports; provide expert coaching to generate a vast pool of quality players; and further the objectives of Swachh Bharat Campaign wherein all the participants and Indian Army jointly clean a portion of Dal Lake as part of ‘Save Dal’ Campaign.
Lauding the efforts of GoC 15 Corps and J&K Water Sports Association in providing opportunity to local youth to showcase their talents, Governor observed that the Valley and its beautiful lakes are ideal for nurturing youth to achieve the highest awards in national and international level water sports championships. Governor observed that it is delightful to see young participants brimming with confidence and particularly mentioned Ms. Bilquis Mir, Secretary, J&K Kayaking and Canoeing Association, for making the State proud of her achievements at national and international levels. While appreciating the effort of the organisers to do their bit to clean Dal Lake, Governor observed that J&K is lucky to have beautiful water bodies where we can train our youth in water sports. He observed that youth organizations like NCC’s Naval Wing and other water sports organizations should provide opportunities for the youth to compete and excel at national and international levels. Governor hoped that in the coming years these sports will see enhanced participations at all levels and wished all the participants bright careers ahead.
Earlier, Governor and First Lady presented Trophies to the winners and the participating teams. While the Rolling Trophy for ‘Shikara Race’ was won by the team comprising Fayaz and Wasim; the ‘Living Kashmir’ Club won the Trophies in Kayaking, Canoeing and Canoe Polo. Governor felicitated the team of 24 cyclists, led by Major KVS Chauhan, which cycled about 326 Km in four days, passing through Zojila Pass and Drass, to Kargil, under the banner of Chinar Mountain Cycling Adventure Activity: 2018.