Kargil, Nov 05, 2024: The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) inaugurated the 4th LG Horse Polo Cup-2024 Tournament organised by the Department of Youth Services and Sports, UT Ladakh, at Goshan Stadium in Drass. The HLG also inaugurated the Horse Polo Stadium at Goshan, Drass, which was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 6.84 crore.

Speaking on the occasion, the HLG appreciated the organisers, players and the audience for participating in the LG Horse Polo Cup. He stated that the UT Administration Ladakh is committed to the welfare of people, uplifting youth and ensuring a better future for Ladakh. Highlighting the significance of horse polo, the HLG stated that the game fosters proper coordination between the player and horse and enhances the skills.

The HLG stated that the UT Administration sent 12 girls from Kargil to Delhi for horse riding and polo training with the President’s Body Guard. He also stated that efforts would be made to invite the Hon’ble President or the Hon’ble Vice President of India to grace the horse polo event at Drass.

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Earlier, the HLG performed the throw-in ceremony to signal the commencement of the opening match between Himalayan-A and Himalayan-B.

On the occasion, Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Kargil, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon discussed the historical significance of polo, highlighting its cultural roots and regional importance. The CEC emphasised the need for sports infrastructure and facilities to ensure that the players don’t have to travel outside Ladakh for training. He expressed gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi; Hon’ble Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah and Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (Retd) for granting district status to Drass.

On the occasion, the Member of Parliament from Ladakh, Mohmad Haneefa welcomed the HLG and expressed gratitude for his efforts in promoting traditional sports across the Union Territory of Ladakh. He highlighted the talent of Ladakhi youth and emphasised the importance of proper infrastructure, training and facilities for them. He stated that developing sports in Ladakh could boost tourism in the region.

Earlier, Deputy Commissioner/CEO, LAHDC Kargil, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse welcomed the guests while Joint Director, Youth Services and Sports, UT Ladakh, Tahir Hussain Zubdavi presented the vote of thanks. Artists and students performed songs and dances on the occasion.

First Lady, Smt Neelam Mishra; Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Kargil, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon; Member of Parliament, Ladakh, Mohmad Haneefa; Deputy Commission/CEO, LAHDC Kargil, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse; ASP Kargil, Mujeeb-Ur-Rehman; Director, Youth Services & Sports, UT Ladakh, Tahir Hussain Zubdavi; HoDs of various departments, district officers and officials were present during the event.