Kargil, Sept 05: In a bid to promote sports, physical fitness, and camaraderie among the youth in border villages, the Indian Army successfully organized a five-day Inter-Village Volleyball Tournament in Batalik. The tournament, held from August 31 to September 4, 2024, saw enthusiastic participation from eight teams representing the villages of Batalik, Gurgurdo, Sarchae, Silmoo, Lalung, and Chulichang.
The event concluded with a thrilling final match between Chulichang and Sarchae, where Sarchae emerged victorious after an intense and closely contested game. The tournament drew significant local attention, with Feroz Ahmed Khan, sitting Councillor of Silmoo and former Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil, gracing the final as the chief guest.
During the closing ceremony, Khan commended the Indian Army for its continuous efforts to engage with the local population, particularly the youth. “Tournaments like these not only enhance physical fitness but also provide a platform for youth to develop their sports skills. I urge the younger generation to take advantage of these opportunities and consider sports as a professional career,” he said, addressing the participants.
The chief guest also awarded the winning team from Sarchae and lauded all teams for their sportsmanship and enthusiasm throughout the tournament. He emphasized the importance of such events in channeling the energy of the region’s youth toward positive pursuits.
The initiative was met with widespread appreciation from the local community, as it fostered unity among the youth of these remote villages and highlighted the value of sports in personal and community development. The Indian Army’s efforts were praised for strengthening ties with the local populace and providing a platform for the young generation to grow through sports.
This tournament is one of several initiatives by the Indian Army aimed at creating opportunities for the youth in Ladakh’s border regions, promoting physical activity, and encouraging a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
