Jammu, Dec 08 (KNO): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that sports, especially cricket, has the unique power to bring people together and strengthen the bonds of unity across the nation.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of 6th edition of Kashmiri Pandit Premier League (KPPL) here, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “In Jammu and Kashmir, cricket and football are not just games—they are a junoon.”
He said the participation of Kashmiri Pandit players who have travelled from different parts of the country to take part in the league is a significant contribution to the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
Their performance, he added, should not be viewed merely in terms of defeat or victory but as a reflection of the unifying power of sports.
“Sports gives birth to new dreams, and I can clearly see those dreams in the eyes of our youngsters,” LG Sinha said, adding that playgrounds help shape lives by providing confidence, purpose, and inspiration.
He urged the players participating in the KPL to remain focused on their goals and utilise the platform to showcase their abilities.
Commending the resilience of the Kashmiri Pandit community, the Lieutenant Governor said they have shown exemplary courage through the years and continue to shine as symbols of determination and hope. “Your talent in the sporting arena is your strength. It is your power,” he told the players.
He said that the Kashmiri Pandit Premier League has been steadily expanding its reach and influence, offering greater opportunities for youth engagement and fostering stronger bonds within the community.
The LG said the government remains committed to supporting sports infrastructure and talent development across Jammu and Kashmir to ensure that young athletes receive the platforms they deserve.
“Sports will continue to play a crucial role in driving social cohesion, nurturing aspirations, and building a brighter future for the youth of the Union Territory,” he added.
LG Sinha called upon the players and youth to dream big and define clear goals in life and make them reality with hard work, dedication and perseverance. “The power of sports can transform individuals, society and the nation. We must believe in ourselves, promote shared values, embrace the challenges and stay focussed to foster national identity and unity,” he said.
He extended his felicitations and best wishes to all the participating players and everyone associated with the Kashmiri Pandit Premier League.
The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed that under the leadership of PM Modi, Government of India and UT Administration is committed to the welfare of Kashmiri Pandit Community.
The Lieutenant Governor also commended the Lalitaditya Sports Education and Health Organization, for its dedicated efforts towards promotion of sports.
He asked the members of the Organization to partner with schools and government departments in other states/UTs to connect with youth.
He further emphasised on developing a long-term empowerment roadmap and integrating skill training and career preparation for the youth from Kashmiri Pandit Community, building on the success of initiatives like the LG Special Camp.
Ashish Kachroo, Vice President, Lalitaditya Sports Education and Health Organization; Vinay Koul, General Secretary; Ankur Bagati, Coordinator; P N Tickoo, Deepak Raina, Raman Raina and other members of the organisation, prominent citizens and sportspersons were present.
The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range; Dr Rakesh Minhas, Deputy Commissioner Jammu; Dr. Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) J&K; Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council and senior officials of Civil and Police Administration—(KNO)