The Indian Army under OperaTOURNAMENT AT GUREZ VALLEY
tion Sadbhavana has been organising several youth centric initiatives with special focus on education, sports, skill and employment generation. Furthering the proficiency of local youth keen in adventure activities and sports, Gurez Artillery unit organised Naik Farooq Ahmad baba tournament at Khandyal Degree College from 04 to 21 Oct 21. Total of sixteen teams participated in the competition, each team representing their village.
Martyr Naik Faruk Ahmad, SM son of Gulam Mohaddin Baba was a resident of nayal village. His parent unit was 3 JAK LI and he was martyred on 22 Jun 2004 while serving in 9 Rashtriya Rifle Battalion during an anti-terrorist operation. He was awarded with Sena Medal Gallantry award posthumously for his highest bravery in the face of enemy. This event not only honours the Martyrs of J&K but also encourages the youth of Gurez to walk in the steps of those brave men who have laid down their life in the highest sacrifice for motherland.The tournament was conducted on pool cum knock-out basis. One team from each pool reached semi-finals after a keenly contested pool matches. The much awaited finals was played between Pacers Wampora and Achoora teams at Khandyal Degree College, on 21 Oct 2021 in which Pacers Wampora team emerged victorious.The winner and runners up teams were awarded with trophies, cricket kit to all the players and a cash prize of Rs 12000 & Rs 8000 respectively. The other prizes incl ‘Man of the Match’ award and prizes to umpires and commentators were awarded by Mrs Tota Begum Wife of Martyr Nk Faruk Ahmad, SM who was invited as the chief guest.The event witnessed an overwhelming support from all the students and locals attended by SDM, Gurez, BDO, BMO, Tehasildar Sarpanchs and Panchs. The prize distribution ceremony was attended by civilian dignitaries and ended with patriotic calls of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” followed by refreshments for the spectators and players. The ambience and positive response reflected by active participation and cheerful atmosphere throughout the event will surely help motivate the local youth towards a better future.
