Sports Competitions in Ratia Promote Drug-Free Lifestyle Among Youth

Ratia: Block-level sports competitions were organised at Jakhan Dadi Stadium on Saturday under the Drug-Free Youth India, Developed India campaign being run by Mera Yuva Bharat, an initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India.

The event was jointly inaugurated by Sardar Gurcharan Singh Khokhar, Fatehabad district president of the Minority Morcha, and Sharma Chand Lali, district president of the Sant Shiromani Namdev Sabha, by cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

Addressing the participating players and young people, the guests highlighted the importance of sports in promoting physical and mental well-being. They said sporting activities also help develop discipline, self-confidence, team spirit and a sense of brotherhood among young people.

Why Are Sports Important in Preventing Drug Abuse?

The speakers stressed that encouraging young people to participate in sports is essential to protect them from substance abuse and other social challenges. They pointed out that addiction affects not only an individual's health but also their family and the wider community, while sports offer a constructive and positive direction.

They urged youngsters to devote more time to sports, education and creative activities and actively contribute to building a healthy, drug-free society.

Six Sporting Events Organised

The competitions witnessed enthusiastic participation, with players demonstrating their abilities and sporting spirit across several events. The programme featured kho-kho, volleyball, 400-metre and 800-metre races, high jump and long jump.

Representatives of Nagar Sports Academy, including Raghubir Singh, Arun Kumar, Ajay Kumar, coach Shishpal and Dharmbir Singh, were among those present. Several other prominent personalities and sports enthusiasts also attended the programme.

At the conclusion, the organisers congratulated the participants and wished them success in their future endeavours. They encouraged young people to make sports an integral part of their lives and support the vision of a healthy, drug-free and developed India.