 Early Times Report
Bhaderwah, June 22: Bhaderwah, a renowned tourist destination, is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for national and international sports events. Following the resounding success of last year’s snow marathon, the town is now hosting its first prestigious national-level chess tournament in District Doda.
The Smart Girl FIDE International Rating Chess Tournament, a 5-day event, is being held at Hotel Thakur Villa in Bhaderwah from June 21-25. Organized by the Bhadrakashi Chess Association District Doda in collaboration with Amazing Bhaderwah Tourism Association, the tournament has attracted around 70 players from across India, including participants from Andaman and Nicobar, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
The tournament was inaugurated by Chairman District Development Council Doda, Dhanter Singh Kotwal. The inaugural ceremony was graced by prominent figures, including CEO Bhaderwah Development Authority Balkrishna Bhagat, ASP Bhaderwah Vinod Sharma, President Bhadrakashi Chess Association District Doda Anil Kotwal, Secretary General Amazing Bhaderwah Tourism Association Ramneek Manhas, and Head Art and Culture Department of ABTA Munish Dutt.
In his inaugural address, Chairman Dhanter Singh Kotwal expressed his delight at Bhaderwah’s emerging status as a sports hub and emphasized the importance of such events in promoting tourism and cultural exchange. He congratulated the organizers for their efforts in bringing together chess enthusiasts from various parts of the country.
CEO Bhaderwah Development Authority Balkrishna Bhagat expressed confidence that the event would significantly boost tourism in the region. He emphasized that such initiatives are pivotal in showcasing Bhaderwah’s natural beauty and cultural richness to a broader audience.
ASP Bhaderwah Vinod Sharma termed the initiative as a great platform for the youth, providing a creative and engaging alternative to mobile phone games.
He highlighted the importance of such events in promoting brain activity, social interaction, and skill development among the youth. By participating in these activities, the youth can channel their energy towards productive activities, thereby promoting a sense of community and personal growth. The ASP lauded the organizers for their foresight and urged the youth present to explore their potential beyond the virtual world.
The Smart Girl FIDE International Rating Chess Tournament not only aims to foster a competitive spirit among participants but also highlights Bhaderwah’s potential as a versatile venue for diverse events. The event promises intense competition and strategic brilliance over the next five days, setting the stage for more such endeavors in the future, said BCADD President Anil Kotwal.
ABTA is committed to offering a platform for events that boost the region’s tourism potential and is delighted to extend this opportunity to the community, with a particular focus on the girl child. According to ABTA Secretary General Ramnik Manhas, this event embodies the spirit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative. |
