Leh, Aug 11: The Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, announced the development of the Ladakh Sports Policy during the inauguration of the 7-a-side League Tournament, organized by Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) under the theme ‘Ladakh Says No to Drugs’ at Spituk’s Astro-turf Football Stadium on Monday.
The policy aims to recognize and reward deserving sportspersons who win medals at national and international levels, a practice already common in states like Haryana and Punjab.
Gupta emphasized that rewarding athletes and coaches will encourage youth participation in sports and support the Drug-Free Ladakh campaign, highlighting the critical role coaches play in shaping young athletes beyond their athletic skills.
LG said, “We must recognise the sportspersons and encourage them to embrace sports for the success of the Drug-Free Ladakh campaign. Coaches, who are builders of young athletes and play a crucial role in their development beyond just athletic skills, should also be rewarded for their services.”
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the transformative impact of the Khelo India initiative launched by the Prime Minister, describing it as a landmark step in harnessing the potential of the nation’s youth through sports.
He emphasized that such initiatives go a long way in channelising the energy of the youth in a positive direction, promoting fitness, discipline, and teamwork.
Highlighting adverse weather conditions that has helped Ladakh become the hub of ice hockey in the country and one of the most popular sport among Ladakhi youth, the Lt Governor promised that UT Ladakh Administration would provide all necessary facilities such as equipment in different disciplines if the Ladakhi youth come forward and work hard on their sports skills to compete against the best at national and international level.
He also commended ABVP Ladakh for organising the tournament under the theme of Ladakh says no to drugs’ campaign.
Vice-Chancellor, University of Ladakh, Prof Saket Kushwaha; Director, NISR, Dr. Padma Gurmet; District Youth Services & Sports Officer, Leh, Tsering Tashi; officials from ABVP and students from EJM College Leh were present during the event.
