Sopore, Oct 5: The first-ever North Kashmir Women’s Sports Festival commenced today at Government Degree College (GDC) for Women, Sopore, with around 900 athletes from 14 Degree Colleges and 5 Higher Secondary Schools participating in the three-day mega event.

Commissioner Secretary Higher Education Shri Ram Nivas Sharma inaugurated the festival as the Chief Guest. Secretary Higher Education Shri Safqat Iqbal and SSP Sopore Shri Iftikhar Talib attended the inaugural ceremony as Guests of Honour, while Principal GDC Women Sopore Prof. Subeena Chiloo was also present.
The inaugural ceremony commenced with an Izband ceremony presented by the students of the host college, reflecting the rich cultural traditions of the region.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner Secretary Higher Education Shri Ram Nivas Sharma said that sports play a vital role in the holistic development of students by promoting discipline, teamwork, confidence and leadership qualities. He appreciated the initiative of organising the first-ever North Kashmir Women’s Sports Festival and lauded the participation of around 900 athletes from Degree Colleges and Higher Secondary Schools across North Kashmir.
He encouraged the participating athletes to make the most of the opportunity, compete with dedication and sportsmanship, and continue striving for excellence in their respective disciplines.
Secretary Higher Education Shri Safqat Iqbal and SSP Sopore Shri Iftikhar Talib also appreciated the initiative and the efforts put in by the host institution for providing a platform to young women athletes from across North Kashmir.
In her welcome address, Principal GDC Women Sopore Prof. Subeena Chiloo extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries, participating athletes, principals, Physical Directors and other stakeholders. She highlighted the importance of the festival in encouraging greater participation of women in sports.
During the inaugural ceremony, the dignitaries felicitated the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour and key stakeholders associated with the festival, including Event Sponsor Mr. Ajaiz Ahmad Bhat of Lazzat Masala and Executive Engineer Mr. Javed Hussain Faktoo. Physical Directors from Degree Colleges across North Kashmir were also recognised for their contribution to the promotion of sports and physical education.
The occasion also witnessed the release of the college’s Bi-Annual Newsletter and Annual College Magazine, MEHAK.
Around 900 athletes representing 14 Degree Colleges and 5 Higher Secondary Schools are participating in the festival and will compete in seven different sporting disciplines over the next three days.
Dr. Tanvir Ahmad Bhat, Physical Director and Sports Coordinator, presented a detailed note on the structure and significance of the festival. The proceedings were conducted by Prof. Zubair Syed Masoodi, while Prof. Pervez Ahmad Dar presented the vote of thanks.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Principals of Degree Colleges and Higher Secondary Schools from North Kashmir, Physical Directors, faculty members, athletes and members of the media fraternity.
The first-ever North Kashmir Women’s Sports Festival marks a significant step towards promoting sports among young women and providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent, competitive spirit and sporting excellence.