Horker Poyen Lift Apricot Blossom Trophy; CEC Highlights Role of Sports in Youth Development.

Horker Poyen Lift Apricot Blossom Trophy; CEC Highlights Role of Sports in Youth Development.
Kargil, May 31, 2026: Hon’ble Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, today graced the final match of the Apricot Blossom Cricket Championship at Khree Sultan Cho Stadium, Biamathang, Kargil, as the Chief Guest.
The month-long championship, organized by Friends Baltistan Hardass, witnessed enthusiastic participation from 70 teams from different parts of the district. The grand finale was played between Horker Poyen and Friends GK Cricket Club, providing spectators with a thrilling contest.
After winning the toss, Horker Poyen elected to bat first and posted a challenging total of 239 runs in 20 overs. In reply, Friends GK Cricket Club fought valiantly and finished at 238 runs, falling short by just one run, resulting in a dramatic victory for Horker Poyen.
The event was attended by SSP Kargil Nitin Yadav as Guest of Honour and Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Kargil, Ghulam Mohammad, as Special Guest. Also present were Councillor Kargil Town Mohammad Abbas, Councillor Chuliskamboo Altaf Hussain, Councillor Poyen Mohd Amin, Naib Tehsildar Mohd Hussain, SHO Police Station Kargil Kacho Sadat Ali, representatives of the organizing committee, sports enthusiasts, and a large gathering of spectators.
Speaking on the occasion, CEC Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon congratulated both the winning and runner-up teams for displaying exceptional sportsmanship, dedication, and competitive spirit throughout the tournament. He appreciated the efforts of Friends Baltistan Hardass for successfully organizing the championship and providing a valuable platform for local youth to showcase their talent.
As a gesture of encouragement and support for sports, Dr. Akhoon announced a ₹2.5 lakh from his Untied fund for the winning team, ₹2 lakh for the runner-up team, and ₹2 lakh for the organizing committee in recognition of their efforts in promoting sports and youth engagement in the district.
Addressing the gathering, the CEC emphasized that sports are a powerful medium for promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline, leadership, and teamwork among young people. He stated that active participation in sports helps channel youthful energy in a positive direction and plays a significant role in protecting society from social evils, particularly drug abuse and other harmful activities.
Dr. Akhoon further highlighted the achievements of LAHDC Kargil over the past two and a half years, particularly in the field of sports and sports infrastructure development. He stated that the Council has undertaken several initiatives aimed at strengthening the sports ecosystem across Kargil, including the development and upgradation of playgrounds, stadiums, indoor sports facilities, and other sporting infrastructure. These initiatives, he noted, are intended to create better opportunities for aspiring athletes and nurture local talent capable of competing at higher levels.
Reiterating the Council’s commitment to youth empowerment, the CEC assured continued support for sporting activities, infrastructure development, and talent promotion across the district. He urged the youth to actively participate in sports and contribute towards building a healthy, disciplined, and progressive society.
Guest of Honour SSP Kargil, Nitin Yadav, while congratulating both finalist teams, lauded the competitive spirit displayed by the players and appreciated the organizers for conducting a successful tournament. He emphasized that sports are not merely recreational activities but serve as important tools for character building, personal development, and social harmony.
The SSP highlighted the strong connection between physical activity and mental health, stating that regular participation in sports helps young people develop resilience, confidence, discipline, and the ability to work collectively towards common goals. He encouraged the youth of Kargil to remain actively involved in sports and other constructive pursuits that contribute positively to society.
Nitin Yadav further informed the gathering about various sports initiatives being undertaken by the Ladakh Police and invited young athletes to participate in the upcoming Ladakh police-organized tournaments across different disciplines. He assured that Ladakh Police would continue to support sports-based activities aimed at fostering healthy lifestyles, strengthening community engagement, and creating opportunities for talented youth.
Special Guest ADDC Kargil, Ghulam Mohammad, also congratulated both the winning and runner-up teams and commended the organizing committee for successfully hosting the championship. He observed that the tournament reflected the growing enthusiasm for sports among the youth of Kargil and showcased the district’s immense sporting potential.
The ADDC emphasized that sports have emerged as an important avenue for career development, personal growth, and national-level representation. He encouraged young people to actively engage not only in cricket but also in other sporting disciplines, noting that Ladakh possesses immense talent and favourable conditions for nurturing athletes.
He further stated that with the continuous improvement of sports infrastructure and increasing institutional support, youth from Kargil and Ladakh have greater opportunities than ever before to excel at state, national, and international levels. He urged players to maintain dedication, discipline, and perseverance in pursuing their sporting ambitions.
Councillor Poyen, Mohammad Amin, announced ₹30,000 for the winning team, Horker Poyen, in recognition of their remarkable achievement in the tournament.
Councillor Kargil Town, Mohammad Abbas, announced a financial contribution of ₹40,000 from his for the runner-up team, Friends GK Cricket Club, as a mark of appreciation for their outstanding performance throughout the championship.
Councillor Chuliskamboo, Altaf Hussain, announced ₹2 lakh from Untied fund for the Organizing Committee in recognition of their successful management of the tournament and also contributed ₹10,000 to Friends GK Cricket Club for their commendable performance.
Additional awards and prizes mementos were also distributed among sponsors, management members, volunteers, and other contributors in recognition of their valuable support towards the successful conduct of the tournament.