## J&K: Baramulla DC inaugurates ‘District Football League Championship’ ##

In efforts to resume different sports activities amid COVID-19 pandemic, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Baramulla district, Dr GN Itoo inaugurated ‘District Football League Championship’.

The tournament has been organized by the Department of Youth Services and Sports in collaboration with District Football Association Baramulla, and Jammu and Kashmir Football Association.

On the occasion, the inaugural match was played between two local teams. About 60 football teams, comprising over 1500 young players, are going to participate in the tournament.

The event is scheduled to be organized in three different categories viz Super division, A division and Sub-junior categories.

After kick-starting the event, the DC enlisted various initiatives that were taken by the district administration to promote sports culture in the district.

The DC said that sports has a “positive and constructive role in our social and psychological development” and that such events enables youth to divert their attention towards positive pursuits.

He further said that there is a need to provide appropriate platforms so that the “potential of our youth is channelized in a better way”.

Reiterating the administration’s commitment towards development of sports events and the requisite infrastructure, Dr Itoo said that various initiatives are being taken in this regard.

He also emphasized that “youth empowerment has been our priority” and informed that in the upcoming ‘Back to Village-Phase 3’, special focus shall be given towards redressal of issues and grievances that youth is facing.