Altaf Hussain
Mankote, Poonch 23 May 2025 — With vibrant energy and great enthusiasm, the Zonal Level Inter-School Sports Tournament for the academic session 2025–26 commenced today at Government Higher Secondary School Mankote. Organized under the overall guidance of the District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO) Poonch and the direct supervision of Incharge Zonal Physical Education Officer (ZPEO) Mankote, the event witnessed a grand inaugural ceremony that set a spirited tone for the competitions ahead.
The opening ceremony was marked the presence of Principal Mr. Mohd Zabir, Vice Principal Mr. Mohd Zabeer, and Ic ZPEO Mr. Mohd Wasim, along with a significant gathering of physical education teachers (PETs), incharge PEMs, sports officials, and students from various schools across the zone.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Principal Mr. Mohd Zabeer praised the efforts of the Physical Education Department of Zone Mankote for organizing the event on such a large scale. In his address, he said, “Aise sports events na sirf bacho ke talent ko nikharte hain, balki unhein drugs jaise nashe se door rakhne ki ek behtareen koshish hain,” emphasizing the crucial role sports play in shaping both the character and future of young individuals.
As a further incentive, Mr. Zabeer announced, “Jo bhi student yahan se select hoke National level par participate karega, usko hamari taraf se ₹2000 inaam diya jaega, aur uske Coach/Teacher ko ₹3000 ka inaam diya jaega.” This motivational declaration was met with resounding applause and has already infused participating students and their mentors with renewed enthusiasm and determination.
The first day of the tournament featured high-energy competitions in Volleyball, Kabaddi, and Kho-Kho under the U-17 Girls category. Matches began at 9:00 AM sharp, with athletes displaying exemplary sportsmanship, discipline, and physical fitness. The playing fields of HSS Mankote were alive with cheers, encouragement, and an evident passion for the games.
participating schools arrived well-prepared, with students attired in proper sports uniforms as per tournament guidelines. Each team was guided and supervised their designated Physical Education Masters (PEMs), Physical Education Teachers (PETs), and Rehbar-e-Khel (REK) officials, ensuring smooth coordination and adherence to protocol.
A well-structured organizational framework has been key to the successful execution of this tournament. The Volleyball Committee, under the convenership of Mr. Ikhlaq Ahmed (HS Uchhad), with dedicated members Mr. Mohd Shabir (GMS Mankote), Mr. Shabir Hussain (HS Sagra), and Mr. Sikander Khalil (MS Keni), has been instrumental in overseeing match schedules, referee coordination, and fair play.
In addition to the volleyball committee, other officials have also played crucial roles. Mr. Mohd Ashfaq (PEM), Mr. Varinder Kumar (PEM), and Mr. Asif Mustafa (PET) have contributed immensely to ensuring that all logistical, disciplinary, and technical aspects of the tournament are handled with professionalism and efficiency.
The tournament is scheduled to continue until 27 May 2025, with upcoming matches across multiple categories including U-14 Boys, U-14 Girls, U-17 Boys, and U-17 Girls. Each day promises more thrilling competitions and opportunities for young athletes to demonstrate their capabilities on a zonal platform.
This inter-school sports initiative is not merely about competition. It is a vital step in promoting physical education, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and nurturing talent at the grassroots level. The collaborative efforts of DYSSO Poonch, Ic ZPEO Mankote, school administrations, and sports staff are making a significant impact in creating an environment where sports and education go hand in hand.
With such initiatives, the education department reaffirms its commitment to the holistic development of students, aiming to instill discipline, leadership, and a sense of community through athletic involvement.
