UDHAMPUR, JULY 13, 2026: In a major push toward youth development and community engagement, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) for the Udhampur-Reasi Range, Shiv Kumar, officially inaugurated the Play Nation Badminton League at the Mini Stadium today. Organised by the Department of Youth Services & Sports under the aegis of the Youth Empowerment Programme, the tournament kicked off with immense enthusiasm, drawing an impressive registration of 458 players from across the district. The grand inaugural ceremony was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Jugal Kishore as the guest of honour, while District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO) Tarsem Singh presided over the function.
Speaking at the launch, DIG Shiv Kumar commended the youth services department and the district administration for their collaborative efforts in hosting the league. He emphasized that sports serve as a powerful catalyst for channelising the vibrant energy of the youth into constructive and healthy pursuits, effectively steering them away from social evils and substance abuse.
Echoing these sentiments, ADDC Jugal Kishore highlighted the vital role of athletic competition in fostering discipline, physical fitness, teamwork, and social responsibility among young people, urging all participants to uphold the true spirit of fair play. Earlier in the event, DYSSO Tarsem Singh reiterated the department’s unwavering commitment to grassroots sports, noting that the league is a flagship initiative designed to identify emerging local talent and provide quality platforms for young athletes to thrive.