Athletes role models for India’s gen-next: Lt Governor

Srinagar, May 4: Describing athletes as role models for India’s generation next, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday called upon them to act as the ambassadors of Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan and inspire the youth to shun drugs and embrace sports.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of All India Inter-University Wushu Championship at University of Kashmir here, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha while addressing the athletes said, “You are the role models for India’s new generation. Your appeal will inspire the youth to walk on the right path.”
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated that the administration is committed to building a robust sporting culture across Higher Educational Institutions, ensuring equal opportunities for every student to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.
He said that the All-India Inter-University Wushu Championship is more than a sporting contest; it is a vibrant celebration of Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat and serves as a powerful platform to promote unity in diversity, discipline, excellence, and national integration.
“This championship carries with it a responsibility to uphold and renew the essential spirit of sport that transcends competition and connects us to our highest aspirations as human beings. Let the Inter-University Wushu Championship at Kashmir University be remembered not only for the brilliance of the contests but for the bonds of friendship it forged, the barriers it broke, and the sense of one united, determined, compassionate Indian family it renewed. May every athlete continue to light the path forward for generations to come,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Sinha highlighted that the rigorous discipline of Wushu reflects the resilience of our youth. He stated that the championship serves as a platform for cultural exchange, where rivals become friends and mentors shape the future “heartbeat of India.”
The Lieutenant Governor encouraged each athlete to create a short video on their mobile phones and share it on social media to spread awareness against substance abuse and inspire others to adopt sports and creative activities for a positive lifestyle.
The championship has drawn an impressive participation of more than 150 Universities and over 1000 athletes, bringing together top Wushu talent from across the country. The event showcases both men’s and women’s competitions, reflecting the growing popularity and inclusivity of the sport at the University level.
The championship, being conducted under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities will continue for 6 days, featuring multiple bouts and categories in Wushu, a martial art that combines agility, strength and precision.
Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor Kashmir University, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, Commissioner Secretary Youth Services & Sports, Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner Secretary Higher Education, Akshay Labroo, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Prof. Naseer Iqbal, Registrar Kashmir University along with senior University Officials, prominent sports personalities, coaches and sports enthusiasts attended the inaugural event organized by the Directorate of Physical Education & Sports, University of Kashmir. (KNO)