Kargil, March 26, 2025: The District Tobacco Control Cell, in collaboration with Ladakh Ski & Snowboard Association (LSSA) and Ski Mountaineering Association Ladakh (SMAL) today organized a Tobacco-Free Ski Championship at Linkipal Ski Slope, Kargil.

The event aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and drugs, while encouraging youth participation in sports and promoting a healthy lifestyle.

The program was attended by Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse; Joint Director Information, Ladakh, Imteeaz Kacho; Assistant Director, Tourism, Rahmatullah Bhatt; Chief Medical Officer Kargil, Dr. Liyaqat Ali Khan; Medical Superintendent, Dr. Abbas; Nodal Officer, National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP), Dr. Fatima Nissa; and staff of the Health Department Kargil.

Additionally, members of the LSSA, SMAL, and participants in the snow skiing event were also in present. The event commenced with traditional khataq welcome ceremony for the chief guests.

While speaking at the event, Deputy Commissioner Kargil thanked the District Tobacco Control Cell and the LSSA for organizing the event. He commended the efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and drugs and praised the administration’s ongoing initiatives to combat the tobacco menace.

In his speech, DC emphasized the importance of youth engaging in positive activities such as sports to develop their skills and stay away from negative habits. He expressed confidence that such events would enhance physical fitness and contribute to the well-being of individuals, families, and the larger society.

CMO Kargil, Dr. Liyaqat Ali Khan welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of involving youth in sports and other productive activities. He highlighted that such engagements help to keep young people away from harmful substances like tobacco and drugs.

Dr. Khan stated that the primary objective of this event was to promote games and fitness, particularly the rapidly growing snow skiing culture in Ladakh, to combat issues such as drug abuse.

During the event, snow ski participants showcased their skills on the slope, carrying placards with powerful messages like “Say No to Drugs,” “Drug-Free Kargil,” and “Choose Life, Not Tobacco.” These slogans served to amplify the event’s focus on tobacco and drug awareness.

The program also included a certificate and prize distribution ceremony for the participants and winners. Among the key players who showcased their skills were Zeenat Mansoor Lal (1st position), Nazira (2nd position), and Nidda (3rd position) in the girls’ category, while Imtiyaz Ali (1st position), Abdul Hameed (2nd position), and Ahmad Umba (3rd position) excelled in the boys’ category.