Yogesh
Jammu, Nov 25: Calling the young athletes participating in the National School Games as the “Bhagya Vidhatas (destiny writers)” of Bharat, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday called upon the J&K youth to step up against organisations and individuals involved in radicalisation in Kashmir.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the 69th National School Games- 2025 here, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, “The young athletes reflect unity and the spirit of building a stronger Bharat.”
He called upon the J&K youth to stay away from radical influences and instead channel their energy towards nation-building, excellence, and sportsmanship.
The Lieutenant Governor said, “When youth and new ambitions come together, they provide a new direction to society. Athletes, with their skills and hard work, help in writing the destinies of the nation.”
He called upon the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to stay away from radical influences and instead channel their energy towards nation-building, excellence, and sportsmanship.
“While a few people are still involved in radicalizing the youth, the society as a whole must work together to ensure the younger generation remains inspired, focused and doesn’t fall in their trap,” Sinha said.
“It is the duty of everyone to become an inspiration for the youth,” he said, stressing that J&K’s youngsters have immense potential to shine on national and international platforms. “In the coming times, people would like to see the youth of J&K carrying the tricolour and winning medals for the country.”
He said players from 34 states and Union Territories participating in the National School Games in Jammu is a matter of pride for the region. “The event stands as a powerful symbol of youth empowerment and aspiration,” he added.
Terming sportspersons as the future leaders of India, the LG said they must “lead from the front and drive the nation forward.”
He highlighted that athletes promote national integration and embody the true strength of the country’s youth power.
“Youth need to dream big and work hard to fulfil their dreams. They have a special role to play in the progress of the nation,” he said, adding that athletes, through sacrifice and dedication, set benchmarks of excellence that inspire millions.
Sinha also urged sportspersons to act responsibly, stating that youngsters often follow them blindly. “J&K sportspersons are role models for our youth. At a time when some people are trying to radicalize young minds and disturb peace, athletes must stand up against such elements,” he said.
He added that sports teach discipline, strengthen resolve, and help individuals overcome challenges. “Sports has a lot of strength. It provides a clear message of unity, determination, and resilience,” he noted.
Expressing confidence in the young athletes, the LG said he sees them as a “powerful democratic force—innovative, idealistic, and capable of resolving challenges.”
He said participants of the National School Games will return home not just with medals but also with the experience of witnessing a Naya Jammu and Kashmir—a Union Territory that is not only beautiful but also capable of becoming a key driver of India’s growth engine. “You represent the spirit of a modern India. Your achievements today will shape the India of tomorrow,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor congratulated all the winners and participants. He also extended his felicitations to the teams’ management, coaches, and officials for the successful conduct of the National School Games.
“Dream big and have the courage to make those dreams come true. As role models, you hold a special place in society and have a huge responsibility to inspire the coming generations, both on and off the field. From the sports field to the grassroots level, you must continuously strive for progressive policies and social transformation through sports,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor handed over trophies to the winners and other top performing teams and the players who excelled in the different games’ disciplines. He also released a Compendium of Department of Youth Services and Sports.
The Games successfully featured four disciplines: Football, Wushu, Taekwondo, and Table Tennis.
Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner/Secretary to Government, Youth Services and Sports; Anuradha Gupta, Director General Youth Services and Sports; senior officials, prominent sports personalities, and youth in large number attended the closing ceremony.
