early times report
Srinagar, Nov 2: The 22nd Senior National Soft Tennis Championship 2025 was inaugurated today with great enthusiasm and colour at the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex, Srinagar.
The Chief Guest for the opening ceremony was Advocate Saif-ud-Din Bhat, Hon’ble MLA Khansahib, Budgam, while the Guest of Honour was Mr. Raju Parmar, Ex-Member of Parliament and Advisor to the Amateur Soft Tennis Federation of India (ASTFI).
Other distinguished guests present on the occasion included Ms. Shakuntala J. Khodadhra, Secretary General, ASTFI; Mr. Jahangir, PRO, J&K Sports Council; Mr. Majid and Mr. Haris, P.A. to Secretary, J&K Sports Council; Mr. Dilbag Singh, Manager, Gindun Sports Stadium; Mr. Maqsood, Manager, Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex; Mr. Raja Ghulam nabi . Wani, Chairman, J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association; Mr. Shakir Ashraf, General Secretary; Mr. Shiraz Ahmad Baigh, Treasurer; Mr. Narinder Pal Singh, Joint Secretary, ASTFI; and Mrs. Nirmala, Joint Secretary, ASTFI.
The ceremony witnessed participation from players and coaches representing more than 25 states and union territories. The event commenced with an impressive March Past and a captivating performance by the J&K Police Band, followed by a vibrant cultural programme showcasing the rich heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Advocate Saif-ud-Din Bhat commended the J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association for their sincere efforts in hosting such a prestigious national event in a highly professional and well-coordinated manner. He lauded the enthusiasm of the players and urged them to uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship and discipline.
In his remarks, Guest of Honour Mr. Raju Parmar expressed gratitude to the Association and the J&K Sports Council for their continued commitment to promoting Soft Tennis across the Union Territory and the nation.
During the ceremony, mementoes were presented to all medal winners and participants of the recent 9th Asian Soft Tennis Championship, in recognition of their outstanding performances and contribution to the sport.
In his concluding address, Mr. Narinder Pal Singh, Joint Secretary, ASTFI, extended heartfelt thanks to the J&K Amateur Soft Tennis Association, officials, and volunteers for their tireless efforts in making the championship a grand success. |
