Diplomat Correspondent
Kargil, DD,The three-day Inter-College Sports Meet-cum-Youth Fest at the Kargil Campus of the University of Ladakh came to a spectacular and spirited close with its Valedictory and Award Presentation Ceremony, leaving behind a trail of vibrant memories, outstanding achievements, and renewed bonds of camaraderie.
The grand ceremony was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Kacho Mohammad Feroz, Executive Councilor, LAHDC; Dr. Jigmet Deachen, In-Charge Administration, Leh Campus; Dr. Mehboob Ali, In-Charge Administration, Kargil Campus; and Dr. Jaffar Khan, Dean, School of Social Sciences and Arts.
The event opened with a warm cultural welcome as Dr. Mehboob Ali honored the dignitaries with khataks, celebrating Ladakh’s cherished traditions. Dr. Ghulam Ali, Coordinator of the Department of Chemistry, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, expressing pride in hosting the festival and underlining the transformative power of sports in fostering resilience, teamwork, and mental discipline.
The cultural showcase that followed turned the stage into a dazzling tapestry of Ladakhi heritage and youth creativity. Highlights included a soulful Zanskar folk song by EJM College, energetic Sheena dances from Kargil Campus and GDC Drass, the vibrant Balti dance from Agricultural Sciences, and mesmerizing Jabroo, Ldumra, and Ladakhi remix performances by Leh, Nubra, and EJM College students. GDC Khaltsi captivated the audience with a traditional dance, while a solo rap from GDC Khaltsi added a contemporary twist. The Yak and Ladakhi fusion dances, performed by students across campuses, drew roaring applause, leaving the audience in awe.
In his valedictory address, Kacho Mohammad Feroz extended his gratitude to the University for providing such a dynamic platform for students to shine both on the field and on stage. He praised the event’s role in nurturing essential life skills — hard work, discipline, teamwork, and leadership — alongside academic excellence.
Notably, he acknowledged Vice Chancellor Prof. Saket Kushwaha for pivotal initiatives, including the operationalization of the Administrative Office at Kargil Campus and the introduction of new academic programs.
Excitingly, he announced the sanctioning of a new flyover bridge to connect the academic and residential blocks — a symbol of progress and infrastructure development.
In a virtual address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Saket Kushwaha congratulated all participants and praised the organizing team for the flawless execution of the event.
The award ceremony honored outstanding achievements in sports and mentorship, with EJM College Leh dominating the archery competitions by securing top honors in both men’s and women’s categories. In handball, Leh Campus triumphed in the men’s division while EJM College claimed gold in the women’s event. Special recognitions were awarded to Most Valuable Players Padma Angmo and Rigzen Gurmet, along with Best Goalkeepers and Fair Play Award winners. The contributions of referees, cultural coordinators, and media personnel were also acknowledged, highlighting their vital role in the event’s success.
Dr. Jigmet Deachen extended heartfelt thanks to the Kargil Campus team for their exemplary coordination and emphasized the Vice Chancellor’s support in strengthening inter-campus ties.
The final address by Dr. Mehboob Ali was a poignant reflection on the collective journey of the event. He expressed deep appreciation to LAHDC, the Vice Chancellor, Leh Campus colleagues, faculty, referees, cultural leads, and volunteers.DD
