18/02/2026
*From Rural Grounds to Stadiums- League of Classics Kick Started by YSS Anantnag- JKDYSS begins new sporting Chapter*
The Directorate of Youth Services and Sports J&K under the jurisdiction of District Youth Services & Sports Office Anantnag successfully inaugurated the Panchayat Level Under-17 and Under-19 Boys’ Volleyball and Cricket Tournaments at various venues across the district under the ambitious Youth Empowerment Engagement Plan (YEEP) with the theme “League of Classics- Enjoy the Game.” The initiative aims to channelize the energy of youth towards constructive sporting activities, promote sports culture, and identify emerging talent at the grassroots level.
The Volleyball Tournament was formally inaugurated by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Dr. Sandeep Singh Bali, at Sports Stadium Anantnag. While addressing the participants, he highlighted the transformative role of sports in shaping character, instilling discipline, and fostering leadership qualities among young athletes. He encouraged the youth to actively participate in sports, pursue excellence with dedication, and uphold the spirit of fair play both on and off the field.
Simultaneously, Cricket tournaments commenced with great enthusiasm and sporting fervour at multiple venues including Bijbehara, Hiller Bahie, and Shankarpora, witnessing overwhelming participation from budding cricketers. The matches provided a vibrant and competitive platform for young players to demonstrate their talent, teamwork, and competitive spirit in a professionally organized environment.
At Bijbehara, the Cricket Tournament was inaugurated by Excise & Taxation Inspector Tariq Darsaroo along with officials of the Youth Services and Sports Department. The opening fixtures generated excitement among players and spectators alike.
At Sports Stadium Hiller Bahie in Zone Bidder, the opening match in the Under-19 Boys category was played between Block Breng and Block Achabal. Batting first, Block Breng posted a competitive total of 148 runs. In response, Block Achabal successfully chased the target, scoring 149 runs in just 13.2 overs while losing only two wickets. Tehseen Manzoor from Block Achabal was adjudged Man of the Match for his outstanding and match-winning knock of 89 runs not out.
Similarly, the tournament at Shankarpora in Zone Doru commenced in a vibrant atmosphere. Two matches were played on the opening day. In the first match, Block Verinag defeated Block Shahabad by 7 wickets, with Mohammad Hazim Wani being declared Man of the Match. In the second match, Block Hillar Shahabad Qazigund registered a convincing victory by 4 wickets, and Ayan Majeed was adjudged Man of the Match for his impressive all-round performance.
As per the latest performance reports received from the venues, Aayan Mushtaq, Ayan Arshad, Suhail, Sahil Shameem, Fahaid Javaid, and Sanan Bashir have emerged as outstanding performers in their respective fixtures. Their remarkable display of skill, determination, and sportsmanship has earned appreciation from officials and spectators alike, setting high standards for the ongoing competitions.
The Directorate of Youth Services & Sports reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening grassroots sports development by organizing regular tournaments, talent identification programmes, and youth engagement initiatives. The competitions will continue as per the scheduled fixtures, and all participating teams have been advised to maintain discipline and uphold the true spirit of sports throughout the tournament.
*Issued By:- DPC Anantnag*
