Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, September 8, 2025: The General Bipin Rawat Memorial Kashmir Hockey League 2025 was inaugurated at the Polo Ground in Srinagar, marking a vibrant celebration of sports and youth empowerment. Organised by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Hockey Association and the Saving the Future NGO under the Army’s Operation Sadbhavana initiative, the tournament honours the legacy of General Bipin Rawat, India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, who championed youth engagement and peace-building through sports.The two-week-long league features 16 teams from across Kashmir, including Amar Singh College, Sri Pratap College, AAA Degree College Bemina, Government College for Women MA Road, Baramulla Reds, Baramulla Blues, Srinagar, Pulwama, Kupwara, Anantnag, Shopian, Kulgam, Khelo India Centre Srinagar, Bandipora, Ganderbal, and Budgam. Indian women’s hockey team player Gurjit Kaur inaugurated the event, inspiring players to showcase their talent.
“This is a very good initiative. Many players will get the opportunity to shine,” Gurjit told ANI.Robin Singh of Baramulla Reds highlighted the tournament’s impact, stating, “The Army organizes this event in General Rawat’s name, supporting everything, including funding. It helps our youth stay away from drugs and opens job opportunities through sports.” The league promotes sportsmanship, unity, and a drug-free lifestyle, aligning with efforts to empower J&K’s youth.The Indian Army’s support, alongside @JK_Hockey and NGOs, underscores the tournament’s role in fostering community resilience and providing young athletes a platform to excel, contributing to a brighter future for Kashmir.
