Leh, Nov 24: Secretary Sports, Ladakh, Ravinder Kumar chaired a meeting with officials of the Youth Services and Sports (YSS), Ladakh to discuss and strategize long-term systematic plans for the development of Sports in Ladakh.

They sought advice from Director Infrastructure, Sports Authority of India (SAI) Lt. Col Yadvinder Singh, and Deputy Secretary Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, GoI Bangara Raju.

Lt. Col Yadvinder Singh highlighted the importance of first identifying the sports that Ladakh excels at, followed by hiring a sports consultant with national and international experience. Standardization of infrastructural design and development of a model plan to be replicated throughout the region was stressed by Lt. Col Singh.

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Further, Lt. Col Singh spoke of the need to focus more on sports where high altitude endurance of athletes from Ladakh play a vital role such as marathons, and cycling. He also pointed out the scope of indoor sports such as forms of martial arts.

The officials from SAI and MYAS have been touring both districts to review the implementation of various sports infrastructure.

Secretary Ravinder Kumar appraised the officials of challenges such as varied choice of sport amongst the children, lack of trained coaches, etc, while highlighting good performance in marathons, cycling, ice hockey, etc.

Discussions were also held on the establishment and smooth functioning of Khelo India Centre, the development of low-cost multi-purpose halls, and the development of sports centers at the village level for further promotion of sports in the region.

Additionally, training for coaches and the establishment of a recovery rehabilitation center were also discussed.

In order to further assist the officials of the department with queries pertaining to management, implementation, and other concerns pertaining development of Sports in Ladakh, a virtual meet is scheduled to be organized with officials of SAI.

Joint Director YSS Ladakh Moses Kunzang, ADC Leh Sonam Chosjor, concerned officials of YSS, Leh, and Kargil, and officials of PWD and CPWD were present during the meeting.