Leh, Feb 19: Member of Parliament (MP), Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal inaugurated the men’s section 2nd Lieutenant Governor Ice Hockey Championship Cup-2022 at Ice Hockey Rink, NDS Sports Complex, Leh. The championship is being organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports, Leh in collaboration with Ladakh Winter Sports Club, Leh.

A total of nine men’s teams are participating in the championship, including four civilian teams from Leh district and three civilian teams from Kargil district and one each from Ladakh Scouts and ITBP. 

Speaking on the occasion, MP Ladakh shared that in the naturally endowed icy region of Ladakh, ice has become an important aspect for showcasing the talent of the youths in terms of winter sports like ice hockey and ice-related opportunities.  

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He added that the whole façade of ice hockey changed since it was declared as a recognised sport by the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs. With this new recognition, ice hockey is included in the sports quota and ice hockey players can avail benefits of the reserved sports quota.

MP Ladakh shared that the Ice Hockey Rink at the NDS Sports Complex would be completed by the end of the year. He informed that Rs 50 crore has been earmarked under Special Development Package (SDP) for this purpose. Further, MP Ladakh informed that a similar ice rink of international standard would be constructed in the Kargil district as well. 

MP Ladakh shared that both the Hill Councils and UT Administration are working together to promote ice hockey. He said that 25 ice rinks have been completed at various sub-division levels and additional 25 more rinks would be constructed at the earliest with the required equipment. 

Moreover, MP Ladakh lauded the efforts and contribution of Ladakh Winter Sports Club, Leh in promoting ice hockey during its nascent stage in the district. 

Stressing the untapped potential of Ladakh, MP Ladakh also shared the vision of developing Ladakh as a top sports hub for winter and high-altitude sports. Further, he expressed best wishes to all the teams participating in the championship. 

Earlier, Secretary, Sports and Youths Affairs, Ravinder Kumar, in his welcome speech, shared that the 2nd LG Ice Hockey Championship Cup -2022 is being organised in a limited manner with the live telecast amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. He added that the event would boost the training and practice of the participating teams and motivate and gauge their preparedness which is central to any game.

The inaugural match was played between Ladakh Scouts and Chiktan in which the former emerged victorious by six goals.

Executive Councillor, Tashi Namgyal and Executive Councillor, Stanzin Chosphel, concerned officials of Department of Youth Services and Sports and Ladakh Winter Sports Club, Leh attended the opening ceremony.