Satish Sharma attends Dangal competition at Gharattal; reaffirms govt’s commitment to promote traditional sports

JAMMU : Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports and Transport, Satish Sharma, on Thursday attended a vibrant Dangal (traditional wrestling) competition at Gharattal.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of renowned wrestlers from Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.
The competition drew a large gathering of sports lovers and local residents, turning Gharattal into a hub of traditional sporting fervour. The prize distribution reflected the scale and spirit of the event, with the first prize set at ₹1.51 lakh, second prize at ₹1 lakh and third prize at ₹50,000.
The event was organized by the Dangal Committee, Gharattal.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister appreciated the organisers for keeping alive the rich heritage of traditional sports and providing a platform for wrestlers from across the region to showcase their talent. He said that Dangal is not just a sport but a cultural legacy, which promotes discipline, strength and sportsmanship among the youth.
The Minister reiterated the government’s firm commitment to promotion and upliftment of sports activities across Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasised development of modern sports infrastructure besides preservation and promotion of traditional and indigenous sports. He assured that the government will continue to extend support for such events that encourage youth participation and foster a healthy sporting culture.
Sharma added that engaging youth in sports is a powerful tool for building a fit, confident and responsible generation. He added that the administration is determined to ensure equal opportunities and facilities for athletes in both modern and traditional disciplines.
The event concluded with an exciting series of bouts, reflecting the enduring popularity and cultural importance of Dangal in the region.