KARGIL: DLA Shimsha clinched the Capt Sourav Kalia Memorial Cricket Tournament title after defeating Chanigund in the final match played at Kaksar village, as part of events marking the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas.
The tournament, organised in memory of Kargil War martyr Captain Sourav Kalia, drew wide participation from across the region, with 64 boys’ teams and five girls’ teams competing over several days. The final witnessed a large turnout of spectators, local residents and Army personnel.
Brigadier Ashish Anil Joshi, Commander, 121 (Independent) Infantry Brigade, attended the closing ceremony as Chief Guest. Senior Army officers were also present and interacted with players and members of the local community.
Addressing the gathering, Brigadier Joshi highlighted the role of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork and physical well-being among youth. He also paid tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil conflict, underscoring the significance of commemorating their sacrifice through community-oriented initiatives.
Following the final, trophies and prizes were awarded to the winning team, runners-up and outstanding performers. Participants and local residents appreciated the Indian Army for organising the event and providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent.
Villagers said such tournaments encourage constructive engagement among youth and contribute to their overall development by promoting healthy competition and community participation. They expressed hope that similar sporting events would continue to be organised in the future.
The tournament concluded with a celebration of sportsmanship and public participation while serving as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the heroes of the Kargil War ahead of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations
