Anantnag, August 29, 2025 – The Department of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) Anantnag has successfully hosted the Inter-District Provincial Level Kabaddi Championship for Under-14 Girls (AAG) at the scenic Sports Stadium in Pahalgam. The event, which kicked off on August 23, 2025, brings together talented young athletes from across the Kashmir division, promoting sportsmanship, discipline, and empowerment among girls in the region. Organized under the aegis of the Jammu and Kashmir Youth Services and Sports Department, the championship underscores the government’s commitment to grassroots sports development and gender inclusivity in physical activities.
The inaugural ceremony was presided over by the District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO) Anantnag, alongside the Station House Officer (SHO) Pahalgam and the District Activity Incharge. Dignitaries commended the department for choosing Pahalgam, a premier tourist destination, as the venue, which not only adds to the event’s allure but also highlights the integration of sports with the valley’s natural beauty.
“This tournament is a vital platform for young girls to exhibit their skills, foster teamwork, and build resilience,” the DYSSO remarked during the opening address, encouraging participants to uphold values of fair play and unity.
Thrilling Matches and Standout Performances on Day One
The championship commenced with high-energy first-round matches in the Under-14 age group, featuring teams from districts including Anantnag, Bandipora, Budgam, Kulgam, Kupwara, Shopian, Pulwama, and others. The host district, Anantnag, dominated the opening day by securing victories in all four of their encounters, positioning them at the top of the points table. Bandipora followed closely with three wins out of four matches, showcasing impressive strategy and agility.
Districts like Budgam, Kulgam, Kupwara, and Shopian each clinched two victories, while Pulwama notched one win, setting the stage for intense competition in the subsequent rounds.The matches were played in a round-robin format, with teams displaying remarkable athleticism on the mat. Spectators were treated to fast-paced raids, solid defenses, and nail-biting do-or-die moments, reflecting the growing popularity of Kabaddi among Kashmir’s youth. The event aligns with the National Sports Week celebrations, honouring hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and emphasizing the role of sports in holistic youth development.
Comprehensive Arrangements for Participants
DYSS Anantnag has made meticulous provisions for the visiting teams and officials, including comfortable boarding and lodging at the Sports Stadium Pahalgam and the Higher Secondary School Pahalgam. These facilities ensure a conducive environment for the athletes to focus on their performance without logistical hurdles. Medical support, nutrition guidance, and anti-doping awareness sessions are also integrated into the program, prioritizing the well-being of the participants.The championship is expected to conclude over the next few days, with semi-finals and finals promising even fiercer battles.
Winners will advance to represent the Kashmir division at the national level, potentially opening doors to higher competitive opportunities. This initiative not only nurtures budding talents but also contributes to the broader vision of a fit and active Jammu and Kashmir.Environmentalists and local leaders have praised the event for promoting eco-conscious sports in a sensitive Himalayan area, with measures in place to minimize the ecological footprint of the gathering.
