Panchkula: Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami walked onto the turf of Tau Devi Lal Cricket Stadium to join the Namo Cricket League participants. His appearance turned the fixture into a vibrant celebration of teamwork and the sheer joy of sport.
A Day on the Ground with the Leader
Beyond greeting the budding cricketers, Dhami grabbed a bat and bowled a few overs himself. The spontaneous showdown drew cheers from the spectators and reinforced the message that sport belongs to everyone, irrespective of age or position.
He observed that being on the field provides insights no mere viewer can claim, underscoring values such as collaboration, discipline, relentless effort, and unwavering focus on objectives.
A United Anti‑Drug Commitment
The centerpiece of the event was a solemn pledge against drug use. Dhami invited every player and attendee to promise a drug‑free lifestyle, encouraging them to influence friends and family to follow suit.
The league’s motto – “yes to cricket, no to drugs” – was presented as a collective promise to adopt healthier, more positive habits. Dhami urged youngsters to channel their vigor into sports, creativity, and constructive pursuits that uplift both society and the nation.
Sports as a Discipline Builder
According to Dhami, sport does more than develop physical stamina; it cultivates confidence, leadership, patience, and a spirit of togetherness. He highlighted that athletes learn humility in triumph and resilience in defeat.
Programs like Khelo India and Fit India are expanding access to sports, enabling talent from villages and small towns to reach national and international stages.
Haryana’s Rich Sporting Heritage
Dhami lauded Haryana’s contribution to Indian athletics, naming Olympians, Paralympians, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games medalists from the state. He stressed that such success is rooted in years of hard work, discipline, and an unwavering focus on goals.
The old belief that academics outweigh sports is fading. With better platforms and support, a career in sports is now a credible and respected avenue for today’s youth.
Keeping Young Lives Drug‑Free
Dhami warned that drug addiction damages not just the individual but also families and communities. In contrast, sport offers direction, discipline, and a positive identity.
He called on young people to stay clear of drugs and become ambassadors of the anti‑drug message within their circles.
The ceremony concluded with all participants joining the chief minister in a collective oath to reject drugs and embrace sport as a constructive way of life.
