Hakla in socio-economic upliftment of the Gujjar Bakarwal community of J&K
SRINAGAR, JULY 24:
Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today unveiled the Logo, Website and Teaser of the inaugural edition of the Kashmir Marathon, to be held on 20th October in Srinagar.
In his address, the Lt Governor congratulated the J&K Tourism department and all the stakeholders associated with the international running event. He invited the runners from all corners of the globe to participate in Kashmir Marathon and experience the unique charm of J&K.
“We aspire to make this event a beacon of peace and harmony. I am confident the Kashmir Marathon will place J&K firmly on the global running map and it will enhance global recognition of the UT, highlighting our potential as a premier tourist destination,” the Lt Governor said.
He said the Kashmir marathon is the next addition to the series of world class events being organized in J&K following the successful F4 racing event in Srinagar, Sunburn Music Festival in Jammu and J&K Tourism Development Conclave held recently in Srinagar. “We are exploring possibilities to organise the annual ‘Jammu Marathon’,” he said.
Highlighting the socio-economic impact of the Kashmir marathon, the Lt Governor said the event will boost local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, thereby contributing to the prosperity of our region.
For centuries, Sports has remained the most powerful bridge to connect people of different cultures and languages. The Kashmir Marathon will integrate cultural events, performances, and exhibitions to showcase Kashmir’s rich heritage, enhance the experience for all participants, the Lt Governor said.
“Kashmir Marathon is not just a race but a celebration of resilience, beauty, and the unbreakable human spirit. It will also celebrate our breathtaking scenery and promote eco-friendly tourism that benefits local communities,” he said.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor highlighted the efforts of the UT Administration, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to revolutionise the sports sector of J&K.
He called upon the youth of J&K to make the best of the opportunities being provided by the government in sports and other sectors and become the brand ambassadors of J&K.
The Kashmir Marathon will have two categories- full marathon for 42 kms and half marathon for 21 kms. The proposed route for the Kashmir Marathon will take runners through some of the most picturesque landscapes, featuring Chinar trees, Mughal gardens, and the serene Dal Lake.
Sh Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar,
Situation will become
Advisor to Lt Governor; Sh Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sh RR Swain, DGP; Ms. Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism and senior officers of civil and police administration were present.
Padma Shri Chewang Motup Goba, Founder & Race Director Ladakh Marathon, prominent sports personalities and youth in large number were also present on the occasion.
Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today released a commemorative postage stamp to honour the contributions of Late Shri Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi, renowned Gujjar Leader, social worker and writer.
In his address, the Lt Governor recalled the significant contribution of Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi in socio-economic upliftment of the Gujjar Bakarwal community of J&K.
“Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi has played a vital role for the cause of national integration and dedicated his life for the upliftment of the downtrodden sections of the society. He always advocated for safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Tribes and led the movement demanding Tribe status to Gujjars Bakarwals,” the Lt Governor said.
The Lt Governor also threw light on the lifelong campaigns of Wazir Mohammad to inspire the youth of the Gujjar Bakarwal community to work towards nation building and selflessly serve the society.
Following his footsteps, the members of the Gujjar Bakarwal community have made their valuable contribution to the security and development of this great nation, the Lt Governor added.
The Lt Governor reiterated the resolve of the UT Administration, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi towards empowering and safeguarding the rights of every section of the society, especially the tribal community.
He called upon the members of tribal community to help the administration in destroying the network of terror and drugs by providing correct information to the security agencies.
Our Gujjar Bakarwal community have always stood firm with the security forces against the enemies. We must identify and isolate those aiding and abetting the terror ecosystem, he said.
Speaking on the occasion, Sh Shamsher Rana Hakla Poonchi, expressed gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Lt Governor led UT Administration for honouring the contribution of his father, Late Shri Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi, to the nation.
Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary, Judge High Court of J&K and Ladakh; Sh Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General, J&K Circle; family members of Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi, prominent personalities and members of the Gujjar Bakarwal community were present.
Ms. Tazeem Akhter, Chairperson, District Development Council Poonch; Ch. Mohd. Yasin, Deputy Commissioner Poonch and former legislators were also present on the occasion at Raj Bhawan.
