POONCH: The District Administration Poonch, in collaboration with the Department of Youth Services and Sports, kicked off a three-day chess tournament today here at DNRM Girls Higher Secondary School. Deputy Commissioner Vikas Kundal inaugurated the tournament in presence of ADC Tahir Mustafa Malik, CPO Mohammad Rafi, AD Food Adil Shabir, DIO NIC Parvinder Singh and other officers were present.
At the opening ceremony, the Deputy Commissioner engaged with the participants, encouraging them to actively partake in sports, highlighting the importance of chess as both a mental challenge and a source of enjoyment. The tournament will feature a competitive environment with significant incentives for participants. The Deputy Commissioner announced a cash prize of ₹5,000 for first place, ₹3,000 for second and ₹ 2000 for third position.
Emphasizing the historical significance of chess, the Deputy Commissioner noted that the game originated in India before spreading to the rest of the world, reinforcing the nation's rich cultural heritage in sports. The tournament represents a significant opportunity for young athletes in Poonch to showcase their skills, foster camaraderie, and promote a spirit of healthy competition.