The three-day Softball-Baseball Championship was inaugurated at the GGM Science College football ground. Nuzhat Gull lauded the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council and the J&K Softball Association for promoting softball and other recognised sports, citing the established presence of softball in events like the Olympics and Asian Games. 

Gull said that sports were vital in combating drug problems in society and keeping the youth engaged in positive activities, and the championship that is being organised by the J&K Softball Association would help in this. 

"Involvement of youth in sports and games helps them not to fall prey to drugs and other social evils, otherwise, the drug menace is spreading alarmingly these days," the Secretary said.

She noted that over the past few years, softball in Jammu and Kashmir has steadily gained momentum and achieved significant success, spreading its influence to every part of the Union Territory. 

More than 400 athletes from 14 districts of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir are participating in the Sub-Junior Boys & Girls, Junior Boys & Girls and Senior Men & Women categories. 

"The three-day championship, which is being sponsored by the J&K Sports Council, will conclude on March 30," said an official, adding that 14 matches have been played so far in the sub-junior, junior and senior boys and girls categories. Baljinder Pal Singh, Divisional Sports Officer, Jammu, and Vikas Mangotra, in charge of GGM Science College, were also present at the event.