Indian Army encourages Kashmir youth to brush up cricketing skills

India is a country where the sport of cricket dominates all other sports in terms of fan following.

Understanding this craze, the Indian Army recently organised a cricket tournament at the sports stadium here to encourage and showcase the talent of budding players of Rajouri and Poonch districts.

Senior army personnel, district police officials and civilians graced the event and cheered the players.

One of the players thanked the Indian Army for organising the tournament and emphasised how sports help in the shaping of a good personality.

"I would like to thank the Indian Army for holding this tournament. I would also like to thank the audience for cheering for us. Through sports, we can channelise our energies and curb bad habits like smoking and drinking. I appeal to the concerned authorities to hold such activities in the future as well," he said.

Another player said, "This initiative by the Indian Army to draw youth towards sports is worth applauding. I would request the government to come up with such plans to explore the talent of the region."

"The youth of Poonch and Rajouri have the talent to represent India at the international level. If the state government also takes such initiatives, the youth of this region will shine," he added.

The winners were awarded cash prizes and trophies after the final match on December 14.