KATHUA, Oct 8: The Inter-District Division-Level Badminton Tournament for All Age Group Boys and Girls commenced on Thursday at the Sports Stadium Kathua, bringing together promising young badminton players from across the Jammu Division.
Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma inaugurated the tournament in the presence of Chief Planning Officer Kathua Ranjit Singh Thakur. The dignitaries interacted with the participating players and encouraged them to display confidence, discipline, determination and the true spirit of sportsmanship throughout the competition.
The U-17 Boys category got underway on the opening day, witnessing several closely fought encounters as young shuttlers competed for a place in the next stage.
Pool A Results: Samba defeated Doda 2–0; Jammu defeated Rajouri 2–0; Udhampur defeated Ramban 2–0; Kishtwar defeated Reasi 2–0; Kathua defeated Ramban 2–0; Udhampur defeated Kishtwar 2–0.
Pool B Results: Kathua defeated Kishtwar 2–1; Rajouri defeated Doda 2–0; Jammu defeated Poonch 2–0; Jammu defeated Doda 2–0.
The tournament is providing an important competitive platform for budding badminton players to showcase their skills, talent and sporting abilities while gaining valuable experience at the divisional level.
Speaking on the occasion, the dignitaries appreciated the efforts of the Department of Youth Services and Sports for creating opportunities for young athletes and promoting a strong sporting culture among students and youth. They called upon the participants to give their best on the court while upholding discipline, fair play and mutual respect.
The event also reflects the growing emphasis on nurturing sporting talent at the grassroots level and providing young athletes with opportunities to compete, improve their skills and represent their respective districts at higher levels.