Youngsters prove metal

The funds allotted by the Government of India to Jammu & Kashmir under the sports category is proving fruitful as several youngsters including boys as well as the girls here have made the entire Union Territory as well as their respective families proud by clinching the titles of national as well as the international games at different places. At the Asian Para Games, Jammu and Kashmir, Sheetal became the ‘first female archer without arms to compete internationally’, per the sport’s governing body – World Archery. She bagged not one but three medals, including a gold, in different categories. Backed by some fantastic performances in the 37th National Games in Goa, the athletes from J&K have emerged as a force to reckon with. While it all began with bagging of silver medal in rhythmic gymnastics by the J&K in the team championship led ably by Shivangi, Sneha Dewan, Himnai Gupta, and Viomini Dogra, the team showcased their talent and determination to stay relevant in the event till the end. During the competition, the silver medal in the group event was bagged by gymnasts, comprising Gourav Chettri, Parul Mehra, Dhruv Dewan, Laksh Mahajan, and Manav Gupta. In Pencak Silat, athletes also put on a splendid show bagging silver and bronze medals. While raves Ahmad won bronze in the Tunggal category, Shahid Muzaffar won the silver medal and Salik Farooq also stormed into the final by defeating his competitor from Goa. Such a performance at the different levels has proved that the administration has been investing in the right direction to make the career of the sports persons very bright in Jammu & Kashmir. The dedication shown by the youngsters is praiseworthy, but at the same time, the government must be appreciated for identifying the hidden talent among them and providing them with better platforms to showcase their skills and talent.