69th National School Games-2025: I deeply appreciate the efforts of the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports, says Omar Abdullah

• Grand opening marks start of national sports extravaganza in Srinagar
• Thousands cheer as Chief Minister inaugurates games amidst enthusiasm
• Youth power on display: 4000 athletes from across India are participating

SRINAGAR:  J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday formally inaugurated the 69th National School Games-2025 at TRC Stadium here declaring the massive sporting event open and releasing a cluster of balloons into the air.

He was accompanied by Minister for Youth Services and Sports J&K Satish Sharma, Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Lalchowk Ehsan Pardesi. Despite the inclement weather more than 5000 school children and spectators from across the Kashmir division attended the vibrant opening ceremony.

The Chief Minister along with his cabinet colleagues witnessed a splendid freehand march past presented by players of all 30 teams who have converged from various UTs, states and organisations from across the country. Director General YSS Anuradha Gupta, Secretary J&K Sports Council Nuzhat Gul, Joint Director Kashmir Mohammad Rashid Kohili, Joint Director Jammu Vinakshi Koul and Deputy Director Activities and Planing Megha Baogia were also present on the occasion.

Azhar Hajini Convenor of the Media and Publicity Committee of the 69th NSG conducted the proceedings of the colorful opening ceremony proficiently. The Directorate of YSS is hosting the nationals in four major games viz Football, Wushu, Taekwondo and Table Tennis under the aegis of the School Games Federation of India.

Over 4000 young athletes from across India are participating in these prestigious events. Immediately following the ceremony Omar Abdullah shared his appreciation on social media writing “I deeply appreciate the efforts of the Youth Services and Sports Department for their comprehensive preparations and wish all participants great success”.

Meanwhile in a high-voltage inaugural match of the Football tournament the host J&K team defeated Karnataka with a convincing score of 5-2. Sahil was the top performer for the J&K team scoring 3 goals while Yasir and Basir contributed one goal each for the winning side. Vedant and Sufan scored one goal each for the Karnataka team.