*Both Events Concluded Successfully at Sports Stadium Poonch for All Boys’ Age Groups*
POONCH SEPT, 19:’The Department of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS), Poonch, successfully conducted district-level trials in Athletics (Under-17 Boys) and Kurash (Under-19 Boys) today at the Sports Stadium, Poonch. The trials were held as part of the YSS Activity Calendar 2025–26, aimed at identifying and nurturing young sports talent for representation at the divisional, UT, and national levels.
The event was organized under the esteemed leadership of Smt. Anuradha Gupta (JKAS), Director General, Youth Services and Sports, J&K UT, and the able guidance of Smt. Vinakshi Koul (JKAS), Joint Director YSS. The trials were meticulously supervised by Mr. Mohd Qasim, District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO), Poonch, who encouraged the young athletes and reiterated the department’s commitment to grassroots sports development.
Mr. Vijay Kumar, Activity Incharge, played a key role in the smooth and efficient execution of the trials. A dedicated panel comprising officials from ZPEO, PEL, PEM, PET, and REK ensured a transparent, fair, and merit-based selection process.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from young athletes across the district, all showcasing their skills and striving for a place in the district team. The trials served as a crucial platform for talent identification and further strengthened efforts to build a strong sports culture in the region.
Speaking on the occasion, DYSSO Mr. Qasim appreciated the efforts of the participants, coaches, and supporting staff. He acknowledged the consistent performances of Poonch athletes across various sporting disciplines and expressed pride in their growing contributions to the district’s sporting achievements.
> “*Such events reflect the mission of the Youth Services and Sports Department* to empower youth and promote holistic development through sports across the* Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir,” Mr. Qasim noted*.
RAJOURI SEPT 19:The Commanding Officer of 5 J&K Battalion NCC Poonch, Col. Ajay Dhill, today visited Government Post Graduate College (GDC) Rajouri, where the NCC unit organized the Pre-Republic Day Camp (RDC) 2026 selection trials. Cadets from GDC Rajouri, GDC Thanamandi, and GDC Budhal enthusiastically participated in the event.
Col. Dhill, accompanied by Administrative Officer Lt. Col. Sachin Phogat, was accorded a warm welcome by the NCC Unit of GDC Rajouri. The programme opened with a presentation showcasing the commendable achievements of NCC cadets at the national level.
Cadets Sarthak Mahajan and Sunakshi Sharma, who represented the institution at RDC 2025, were felicitated with medals. Similarly, Arushi, who attended the prestigious Thal Sena Camp (TSC), was also honoured. Cadets who took part in the Independence Day Parade 2025 were presented with medals and appreciation certificates.
Recognising exceptional dedication, Nishant Vasudev and Sadia were specially honoured for their outstanding performance in NCC activities.
Principal Prof. Z.A. Mirza congratulated the cadets and lauded the guidance of Major Tanwir Ahmed, ANO GDC Rajouri, for his role in strengthening the unit. Addressing the cadets, Col. Dhill urged them to make the most of the opportunities NCC offers, stressing the importance of discipline, leadership, and service to the nation.
The event was attended by Lt. Altaf Hussain (ANO, GDC Thanamandi), CTO Qamar Rabani, Heads of Departments, and faculty members of GDC Rajouri. The formal vote of thanks was presented by Major Tanwir Ahmed, while the programme was held under the supervision of Major Tanwir Chowdhary, Associate NCC Officer, GDC Rajouri.
SRINAGAR SEPT 19:Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah urging a “compassionate and urgent review” of the case of jailed separatist leader Yasin Malik.
In a detailed letter addressed to Shah, Mehbooba Mufti appealed for reconsideration on humanitarian grounds, stressing Malik’s transformation from militancy to non-violent political engagement. She recalled that in 1994 Malik laid down arms and chose the path of peaceful politics, renouncing violence to pursue change through dialogue.
The PDP chief highlighted that Malik’s role as a bridge during back-channel talks with Indian agencies was carried out with official consent, and his efforts contributed to reconciliation attempts in a fractured region. She noted that Malik participated in government-cleared dialogues, including interactions involving intelligence officials and controversial figures, in efforts to build peace.
“Closing the door forever on a man who once chose peace risks shattering the fragile trust essential for meaningful dialogue,” Mehbooba wrote, warning that such an outcome could deepen alienation and perpetuate conflict in Kashmir.
The former CM underlined that Malik’s case should be reviewed not to undermine judicial authority but to exercise “democratic instruments that honor both justice and mercy.” She added that the spirit of India lies in its capacity for magnanimity and in upholding promises made in pursuit of peace.
Calling on the Home Minister to show statesmanship, Mehbooba said: “Brute force must give way to the healing touch of dialogue, and constitutional rights must be restored. A compassionate reassessment of Yasin Malik’s case would not only uphold justice but also keep alive hope for reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir.”
