Poonch Girls Create History at 69th School National Games, Win Two Bronze Medals in Kurash

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

POONCH DECM, 23:-In a proud and historic moment for District Poonch, two young female athletes have brought national glory by winning Bronze Medals in Kurash at the 69th School National Games held at Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, from December 16 to 21, 2025.

The achievement has added a new chapter to the sporting history of the district and the Department of Youth Services & Sports (DYSS), Poonch. Notably, this was the first-ever participation of athletes from District Poonch in Kurash at the national level—and both participants returned with medals.

Ms. Arya Nazir, daughter of Mr. Mohd Nazir and a resident of Village Seri Chowana, representing PM SHRI Higher Secondary School Seri Khawaja, secured a Bronze Medal in the 63 kg weight category. Meanwhile, Ms. Simran Yaqoob, daughter of Mr. Mohd Yaqoob and a resident of Naka Manjhar, Mendhar, representing Girls Higher High School Poonch, clinched a Bronze Medal in the 73 kg weight category.

The athletes performed remarkably under the supervision of District Youth Services & Sports Officer (DYSSO) Poonch, Mr. Mohd Qasim, with overall coordination by Activity Incharge Mr. Vijay Kumar. Their exceptional skill, determination and fighting spirit stood out on the national stage.

The successful introduction and promotion of Kurash in District Poonch has been credited to the dedicated efforts of Mr. Aijaz Ahmed Malik, ReK Physical Teacher, who also served as the team coach. His technical expertise and tireless commitment have yielded outstanding results within a short span of time.

The achievement was further strengthened by the collective mentorship and guidance of a committed team from DYSS Poonch and Zone Surankote, including Mr. Shabir Ahmed Malik (ReK Physical Teacher), Mr. Manzoor Ahmed (Physical Teacher), Mr. Manzoor Ahmed (Loan ReK Physical Teacher), Mr. Sajad Ahmed (ReK Physical Teacher), Mr. Mukhtar Ahmed (Physical Teacher) and Mr. Pervaiz Ahmed (Physical Teacher), who played a crucial role in preparing the athletes for national-level competition.
Director General, Youth Services & Sports, J&K, Ms. Anuradha Gupta, JKAS, congratulated the players and the entire district team, describing the achievement as a shining example of the department’s commitment to promoting women’s sports and nurturing grassroots talent.

Joint Director, Youth Services & Sports, Jammu, Ms. Venakshi Koul, and Deputy Director Activities, Ms. Megha Baogia, also lauded the medal winners, coaches and district officials for elevating the sporting profile of District Poonch at the national level.

The Department of Youth Services & Sports, Poonch, reaffirmed its commitment to providing better opportunities, infrastructure and expert guidance to young athletes, and to continue working relentlessly towards excellence in sports.