BSF's 'Spandan' volleyball tournament encourages youth participation in border areas
Rajouri, May 22
The Border Security Force Sector Sector Headquarters in Rajouri, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India, has successfully organised a three-day district-level volleyball tournament under the theme 'SPANDAN - Sport for Peace and Development Across the Nation' at the District Sports Complex Stadium.
According to a press release, the tournament, being held from May 21 to May 23, has witnessed enthusiastic participation from 14 teams, including eight boys' teams and six girls' teams from the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch.
The initiative aims to promote sportsmanship among youth and encourage a drug-free society through active participation in sports activities.
The event was inaugurated by DIG Sector Headquarters BSF Rajouri, Chander Mohan Singh Rawat, in the presence of BSF officers, officials from the Sports Authority of India, local dignitaries and sports enthusiasts.
For the first time, such a major sporting platform has been provided to girls by the BSF in the region, generating excitement and appreciation among local youth and participants. Players expressed happiness over receiving an opportunity to showcase their talent and stated that the Pir Panjal region is full of sporting talent that needs encouragement and proper exposure.
BSF officials are ensuring complete support and supervision for all participating players, including accommodation, food and other necessary arrangements during the tournament.
Youths from both Rajouri and Poonch districts have actively participated in the competition, reflecting the growing interest in sports in border areas.
Addressing the gathering, DIG Chander Mohan Singh Rawat highlighted the importance of sports in building disciplined, confident and responsible youth. He stressed that sports activities play a significant role in keeping young generations away from drug abuse and other social evils.
"This competition is not only a platform for displaying talent but also a significant opportunity for the personality development of the players, healthy competition, and strengthening the sports culture. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the organising committee and all the collaborators for this grand event," he said.
Participants and residents appreciated the initiative and appealed for more such events in the future, stating that these programmes help identify hidden talent while promoting peace, fitness and positive community engagement among the youth. Attractive prizes have also been announced for the winning teams of the tournament.
A participant, Tania Sharma, told ANI that the tournament is an excellent opportunity for girls, especially those from villages where outdoor participation is often discouraged. She appreciated the support provided, such as track suits, and expressed hope that more such tournaments will be organised to encourage greater participation of girls in sports.
"The tournament, which is being organised by the BSF, is a great platform for girls, especially. Girls usually are not encouraged to go outdoors in our village. This is a really good tournament. We have been provided with the track suits as well. I hope the BSF keep organising such tournaments so that we girls can participate more," she said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone from Rajouri, I'm proud to see this. The youth here have immense talent but lack exposure. This tournament is a great start, but I hope the government also invests in permanent sports infrastructure in these areas. One tournament a year isn't enough—we need regular coaching and facilities for our children.
Great to see the BSF engaging with local communities beyond just security matters. Building trust and promoting sports among youth, especially girls, is a smart way to foster peace. Kudos to the organizers and participants! 🏐
Finally, some positive news from border areas! 😊 The focus on girls' participation is commendable—Tania Sharma's words touched my heart. My only hope is that this isn't just a one-off event but becomes a regular feature. Sports can indeed keep youth away from drugs and build character. Well done, BSF and SAI!
Spandan is a beautiful name for this initiative. It's heartening to see 14 teams from border districts participating. But I'd also like to see more inter-district tournaments and perhaps some workshops for local coaches. The raw talent is there—we just need to nurture it properly.
This is the kind of community engagement that really makes a difference. Sports for peace is a powerful concept. The BSF deserves appreciation for thinking beyond its core duties and investing in local youth. Hope this inspires similar initiatives across other border regions! ❤️
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