In a significant initiative to empower young girls and promote sportsmanship, the Indian Army’s 41 Rashtriya Rifles successfully organized the Col Santosh Mahadik Inter-School Girls Kho-Kho Tournament at Galzoo Stadium, Kupwara, from September 11 to 13, 2024. The tournament aimed to foster competition among young female athletes and encourage their active participation in sports.
The event attracted considerable attention, bringing together eight teams from local schools, all competing in a knockout format. The tournament culminated in an exciting final match on September 13, 2024, featuring the Government Middle School and Sadiq Memorial School, both hailing from Kupwara. The final was a closely contested affair, marked by intense moments and unwavering school spirit, culminating in a victory for Government Middle School, which scored 20 points against Sadiq Memorial School’s 14.
The tournament drew a crowd of enthusiastic supporters, including civil and military dignitaries, local residents, students, and staff from the participating schools, all eager to cheer for their respective teams. The atmosphere around the event was filled with excitement, as each team displayed commendable energy and determination throughout the matches. The Indian Army and school staff provided encouragement and support, helping to motivate the young athletes and instill a strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship.
In recognition of their hard work and dedication, all participating teams received awards, with the top three teams being honored with medals and trophies for their outstanding performances. The tournament not only highlighted the athletic skills of the participants but also served as a platform for showcasing resilience and a relentless spirit among the young girls, embodying the theme of ‘Never Give Up.’
This initiative reflects the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to supporting local youth and promoting the empowerment of women in the region. The event was viewed as a considerable success, contributing positively to the social fabric of Kupwara by encouraging the active involvement of girls in sports, thereby fostering a culture of teamwork and determination. The aspirations and enthusiasm of the young participants signal a promising future for women’s sports in the area, paving the way for further developments in promoting athletics among girls and young women.
