Leh, Jun 17: The Women’s Polo Club of Leh, accompanied by coach Mohd. Raza, visited the University of Ladakh in a focused effort to revive horse polo, an ancestral sport intrinsic to the region’s heritage. The outreach initiative underscored the dual aim of preserving cultural identity and empowering women through athletic participation.
The collaborative effort between the Women’s Polo Club and the University aims to introduce horse polo to a broader audience, particularly within the academic environment, while also addressing long-standing challenges such as lack of equipment and proper facilities. During the visit, the university administration pledged support to develop the necessary infrastructure and create a sustainable ecosystem for the sport’s growth.
Coach Mohd. Raza, who has long advocated for greater recognition and support for women polo players, emphasized the importance of institutional backing. He highlighted the difficulties the club faces due to inadequate resources, noting that this partnership could serve as a turning point in expanding access and visibility for women in polo.
University officials, including Vice Chancellor Professor Saket Khushwaha, the Registrar, and the Dean of Research, welcomed the club’s initiative and expressed commitment to fostering an environment where sports and academics can grow together. Faculty from the Department of Physical Education also expressed interest in integrating traditional sports into student life.
The club’s visit included a tour of university facilities, allowing players to gain a better understanding of the institution’s academic landscape. This exchange helped strengthen ties between the athletic and academic communities, promoting a shared vision for cultural revival through sport.
The outreach succeeded in raising awareness about the role of traditional games in cultural preservation and provided a platform for further cooperation between local sports groups and educational institutions.
