Sopore, Jul 4: Government Higher Secondary School Sopore lifted the Lazzat T20 Cup on Saturday, defeating SRM Welkin School in a closely contested final at Khushal Stadium, in a tournament that the district administration and police used to promote the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan among the valley’s youth.
Organised by Lazzat Food Spices under proprietor MD Aijaz Bhat, and held in collaboration with Sopore Police, the event drew teams from across the township. It was conceived as a platform to channel young cricketers towards positive engagement, even as the region grapples with concerns over substance abuse among adolescents.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Sopore S.A. Raina, who was the chief guest, and SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib, along with Sanctorum Institution MD Shakir Ashraf War, were in attendance and commended the organisers for stepping in with an initiative that bridged sport and social messaging.
“Cricket can be a powerful disruptor. If it keeps our boys away from drugs, it is as good as any policy,” ADC Sopore, S A Raina, told the gathering.
He lauded Lazzat Food Spices for its efforts in actively involving the youth in sports and channelling them towards a better and safer future.
Speaking on the occasion, Senior Superintendent of Police, Sopore, SSP Iftikhar Talib, stated on Saturday: “As you are aware, the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir’ Abhiyan campaign is now in its final phase. We launched this tournament in April, and today we held the final, which was won by Girls Higher Secondary School. Our objective was to provide a constructive platform for the youth, enabling them to steer clear of negative influences, channel their energy into meaningful pursuits, and break free from the scourge of drug abuse. That is the core message we wish to convey.
I would like to extend my gratitude to the Managing Director of Lazzat Spices for collaborating with us in organising this tournament. Congratulations are also due to him, as well as to both teams that participated in the final.
I am deeply thankful to the people of Sopore for their unwavering support throughout this campaign. Without the cooperation of the community, it is impossible for the police to achieve any meaningful success. My sincere request to the residents of Sopore is to continue extending their support in the days ahead, just as they have done during this campaign. As the Sopore Police continue their efforts against the drug menace, we look forward to your continued partnership in the future.”
Sanctorum Institution Managing Director Shakir Ashraf praised the collaborative efforts of the police department and Lazzat Spices for launching a pioneering sports initiative for the youth.
Describing the move as a “game-changer,” Shakir emphasised that the platform not only unearths raw sporting talent among youngsters but also steers them towards a disciplined and healthy lifestyle. “This is a stellar example of how institutional synergy can channel the energy of our youth in the right direction. I laud the police and Lazzat Spices for this great initiative,” Shakir told Kashmir Convener.
He underscored the transformative power of sports, asserting that physical fitness and competitive spirit are vital pillars for a progressive society. “Every individual, especially the young, should prioritise sports in their daily routine. It is not just about medals; it is about building character, resilience, and unity. Together, through sports, we can keep our society successful and our future generations away from vices,” he added.
Lazzat Spices and Foods Managing Director Aijaz Bhat emphasised the need for collective societal efforts to channelise the younger generation through sports, stating that it is a great opportunity for shaping a brighter and successful future.
“It is always great to contribute to society, and when the younger generation is shaped and channelled, it is always a commendable step,” Bhat said.
He further said that irrespective of who takes the lead in such initiatives, it is paramount that all stakeholders extend their support to the cause.
“No matter who takes the lead, what is important is that we all support this cause, and together we can help protect our younger generation,” he added.
Highlighting the transformative power of athletics, Aijaz said, “Sports is a great opportunity for everyone to shape themselves for a brighter and successful future, and everyone needs to play their part in this cause.”
The final, played before a sizeable crowd, saw GHSS Sopore hold their composure in a tense run-chase to seal the title. With the tournament concluding to widespread applause, organisers said they plan to scale up the event next season.
For now, Sopore has a champion—and a reminder that the pitch for change is best laid through sport.
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