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- Director PIB declares 69th National School Games in Wushu open
SRINAGAR: The Indoor Sports Complex in Wazir Bagh resonated with energy and enthusiasm as the 69th Edition of the National School Games in Wushu was officially declared open on Tuesday. This prestigious national event for under 17 boys and girls, organized by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports J&K under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India, marks another significant milestone for J&K as a premier host for national sporting spectacles.
The ceremony was graced by Qazi Salman, Director of the Press Information Bureau and Director, RNU Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar, as the Chief Guest. In the presence of a vibrant gathering of young athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts, the event was formally opened, setting the stage for high-octane competition.
Expressing his delight at the impressive opening ceremony, Qazi Salman stated, "Witnessing this magnificent gathering of young talent from across the nation here in Srinagar is truly heartening. Sports are a powerful catalyst for holistic development, building not just physical strength but also forging character, instilling discipline, and boosting the confidence of our future generations. The emergence of J&K as a vibrant hub for national sports is a narrative that must be celebrated and widely shared."
He applauded the meticulous planning by the Department of Youth Services and Sports and assured that PIB and Doordarshan Kendra Srinagar would continue to amplify the coverage of such inspiring sporting activities.
The national championship has drawn a remarkable participation of 41 teams from various states, union territories, and organizations across India, showcasing the nation's most promising Wushu talent. The competitions will culminate on November 1, 2025. In a telephonic message, Anuradha Gupta, Director General of the Department of Youth Services & Sports, extended her best wishes to all participants.
She applauded the organizing committees for their commitment and efficiency, expressing full confidence in the directorate's ability to maintain the high standards set by the recently concluded U-19 Boys Football Nationals. DG YSS announced an exciting sports calendar ahead, revealing that following the success in Football and Wushu, the Department is set to host the School Nationals in Table Tennis and Taekwondo as well, further solidifying the region's status on the national sports map.
Ghulam Hassan Lone, the Organising Secretary, extended a warm welcome to the participants. He emphasized the significance of hosting such a prestigious event in Kashmir, stating that it provides a tremendous platform for local athletes and inspires the youth of the region to embrace sports as a way of life. He expressed his gratitude to all the officials and volunteers whose hard work made the event possible.
The proceedings were expertly anchored by Azhar Hajini, Convenor of the Media & Publicity Committee, who also delivered the vote of thanks. Hajini extended a special welcome to the numerous teams visiting Kashmir for the first time, expressing hope that they would carry back fond memories of the region's warmth and hospitality. He acknowledged the technical support provided by the Wushu Association of India and the Wushu Association of J&K, and thanked the J&K Sports Council for providing an appropriate venue. He also made a fervent appeal to media houses to provide wide coverage to the event and the young athletes.
The opening ceremony was further distinguished by the presence of Kuldeep Handoo, India Chief Coach and CEO of the J&K Wushu Association, and Ajay Singh Chandel, SGFI Field Official, who attended as Guests of Honour. Balbir Singh Sodhi, Assistant Director YSS Kashmir, along with District Youth Services and Sports Officers from the Kashmir division, were also present at the glittering ceremony.
The event featured a vibrant march-past by the participating teams, symbolizing unity and national integration, alongside captivating demonstration Wushu bouts that offered a glimpse of the thrilling action to come. A sports oath was also administered to the participants of the games.
With the organizing teams working tirelessly, the Wushu Nationals 2025 promise to be a spectacular celebration of youth, talent, and sportsmanship. All the fights of the tournament are being broadcast live on the social media platforms of the Department of Youth Services and Sports J&K. The sporting momentum will continue as the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports J&K prepares to host National School Games in Table Tennis and Taekwondo in the month of November at Jammu.
