Pulwama, August 4, 2025 – The 55th Rashtriya Rifles (55RR), under the aegis of the Indian Army, inaugurated a grand Cricket Tournament at Sports Stadium Pulwama on Sunday, reinforcing its commitment to promoting sports and fostering youth engagement in Jammu and Kashmir. The event, aimed at steering young individuals toward positive activities and away from negative influences like drug abuse, was formally launched by Commanding Officer Deven Sood in the presence of enthusiastic local youth and community members.
In her inaugural address, Commanding Officer Deven Sood commended the participating teams for their passion and highlighted the role of sports in enhancing physical and mental well-being. “Sports not only build character but also unite communities, providing our youth with a platform to channel their energy constructively and stay away from drugs and other harmful influences,” she stated. The tournament features an impressive 64 teams, offering a vibrant stage for local talent to showcase their cricketing skills and compete in a spirit of camaraderie.
The initiative aligns with the Indian Army’s broader mission to strengthen community engagement through sports development and youth empowerment. By organizing such events, the 55RR aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the public, fostering trust and collaboration in Pulwama. The tournament is expected to draw significant participation from local youth and spectators from nearby areas, creating a festive atmosphere of healthy competition and unity.
Local residents lauded the Indian Army’s outreach programme, describing it as a transformative step toward empowering the youth and promoting a drug-free society. “This tournament is a golden opportunity for our young players to shine and for our community to come together,” said a Pulwama resident. The event underscores the Army’s dedication to nurturing grassroots sports and building a resilient community through constructive initiatives.
The Cricket Tournament is set to continue over the coming weeks, with matches designed to encourage team spirit, discipline, and athletic excellence. The Indian Army’s efforts in Pulwama reflect its ongoing commitment to supporting youth-driven initiatives that contribute to the region’s social and cultural fabric.
