Suhail Khan
While Pakistan continues attempts to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir by fuelling drug abuse among young people as part of its proxy strategy, the Indian Army is responding through a different approach—strengthening youth engagement by promoting sports, discipline, and positive opportunities.
Alongside the Jammu and Kashmir Government's anti-drug campaign led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, including the recent 100-day Padayatra under the Nasha Mukti Bharat Abhiyaan, the Army has intensified initiatives aimed at steering the younger generation away from substance abuse and towards constructive pursuits.
In line with these efforts, the third edition of the Varmul Gindo Sports Festival, organised by the Indian Army's Dagger Division in association with the J&K Sports Council, the District Youth Services & Sports Department and the Baramulla Sports Association, concluded successfully in Baramulla.
Officials said the month-long sporting extravaganza witnessed participation from nearly 3,000 athletes across the district, making it one of the largest sports festivals organised in north Kashmir.
The closing ceremony was attended by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Dagger Division as the Chief Guest, while Baramulla MLA Javid Hassan Beigh was present as the Guest of Honour.
Organised under the theme "Tarjuman-e-Aman" (Messenger of Peace), the festival featured competitions in more than 20 disciplines, including football, cricket, rugby, hockey, volleyball, basketball, kabaddi, kho-kho, karate, wushu, chess, table tennis and snooker. Competitions were held across 15 venues, turning Baramulla into a vibrant sporting centre throughout the event.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, General Officer Commanding of the 19 Infantry Division, Major General Manoj Joshi, said the Army envisions Baramulla emerging as the sports capital of Kashmir.
"Our vision is to establish Baramulla as the sports capital of Kashmir. Sports culture has the potential to transform the city and its youth," he said.
Highlighting the importance of sports in shaping society, the senior Army officer remarked, "An empty mind is the devil's workshop. Sports give you a healthy body, a positive mind and make you a better human being. A true sportsperson never surrenders to drugs because addiction only weakens performance."
He also pointed out the remarkable growth of the festival over the years. According to him, the inaugural edition featured 13 sports disciplines and around 1,800 participants, whereas this year's edition expanded to over 20 disciplines with nearly 3,000 athletes. He added that organisers expect the event to attract between 25,000 and 30,000 spectators.
For many young participants, Varmul Gindo has become more than a sporting event. Several athletes described it as an opportunity that encourages youth to focus on their ambitions instead of falling prey to drug addiction.
Thirteen-year-old table tennis player Sami said he had been training for two years and that the sport gives him purpose. "When I play, I forget everything else. I just want to make my family proud," he said.
The festival also witnessed enthusiastic participation from girls in the Under-14 and Under-17 categories. Twelve-year-old Aisha Khan expressed confidence despite traditional stereotypes.
"People used to say table tennis isn't for girls. But look at us now," she said.
The Veterans category brought former athletes back onto the field, inspiring younger generations. Fifty-two-year-old teacher Mohammad Rafiq, who once represented the district at the state level, said he wanted to demonstrate that passion for sports never fades.
"I play so these kids know that passion has no age. When they see us still fighting and still loving the game, they believe they can too," he said.
Participant Umar Lone described the festival as much more than a sporting competition.
"Varmul Gindo isn't just a tournament. It's a movement. And this is only the beginning," he said.
Socio-political activist Touseef Raina praised the Army for creating meaningful opportunities for local youth.
"It is a blessing that our Army is committed to providing young people with such sporting platforms. Our youth are talented and only needed opportunities. Through these initiatives they are emerging not only as athletes but also as responsible citizens who can bring pride to Baramulla and Kashmir," he said.
Civil administration officials also appreciated the collaborative effort between the Army and various departments. Representatives of the District Youth Services & Sports Department said such programmes motivate young people to pursue excellence, adopt healthy lifestyles and contribute positively to society.
The organisers thanked participating teams, educational institutions, civil administration, volunteers and residents of Baramulla for their support. With the successful conclusion of Varmul Gindo 3.0, the festival has further strengthened the sporting culture in north Kashmir while reinforcing the message of peace, unity and resilience among the region's youth.
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