Sports play vital role in engaging youth in constructive activities: DC Budgam

Budgam, Dec 25: Deputy Commissioner(DC) Budgam ,Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat conducted an extensive tour of various sports facilities across the district, including Qazi Bagh Budgam, Ichgam (A & B) and Khel Gaon Wathoora, Chadoora.

During the inspection of the playfield at Qazi Bagh Budgam, developed by the Rural Development Department at a cost of ₹10 lakh, the DC stated that the playfield’s proximity to Budgam Airport provides a unique opportunity to develop the entire area into a dedicated sports zone.

He emphasised that such development would enable the conduct of multiple sports disciplines, besides creating a vibrant environment for sports activities throughout the year.

The DC said that the development of this area into a sports hub will be described as a step towards nurturing local talent and providing structured platforms for young athletes. He further said that the sports play a vital role in engaging youth in constructive activities, keeping them physically fit, mentally alert, and socially responsible. It was further stated that participation in sports inculcates discipline, teamwork, leadership, and a spirit of healthy competition, which are essential attributes for nation-building.

The playfields at Ichgam A and B, developed under MGNREGA by the Rural Development Department/Gram Panchayat Ichgam at a cost of ₹9.21 lakh during FY 2024–25, were also inspected.  The DC was apprised that the works stand completed. The visit was undertaken to explore the scope for further development and expansion, with the objective of upgrading the facility into a model playfield in Budgam district.

While interacting with local residents of Ichgam, the DC said that the district administration shall extend all possible assistance for further upgradation of the playfield. He emphasized that improved sports infrastructure would allow youth to channel their energy in a positive direction, thereby helping in curbing social evils such as drug addiction and promoting a culture of fitness and well-being.

The DC also underlined the role of community participation in preserving and optimally utilizing sports assets for betterment of the youth

The DC also inspected the ongoing works at Khel Gaon Wathoora, Chadoora Budgam, one of the major sports infrastructure projects in the district.

The DC was apprised that the estimated project cost is ₹5 crore, with Rs 478.35 lakh allotted, out of which ₹338.32 lakh has been expended so far, achieving an overall physical progress of 90 percent. It was informed that the project is targeted for 100 percent completion by the end of January.

During the inspection, the DC stated that facilities such as an indoor stadium, pavilion, and additional spectator seating are being envisioned in the expansion plan.

The DC stated that the objective is to develop Wathoora Khel Gaon on par with national-level sports facilities, capable of hosting major sporting events and training programmes.

The DC further stated that the district administration remains fully committed towards promoting sports at the grassroots level, ensuring that rural and urban youth alike are provided with equal opportunities to excel in sports.  He further said that such infrastructure will not only help in identifying and grooming sporting talent but will also contribute towards overall personality development of young people.

On the occasion, the DC also played a friendly cricket match with enthusiastic local players as a gesture of encouragement and sportsmanship, reinforcing the message that sports unite communities and inspire youth.

Besides, CPO Budgam, SDM chadoora, Tehsildar Chadoora , BDO Chadoora, other district and sectoral officials also accompanied the DC during his visit.