JK to get a taste of international rugby next year

Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Youth Services and Sports Molvi Imran Raza Ansari said on Tuesday the valley will host an international rugby championship next year.

“Kashmir valley will host South Asian Rugby 7’S Championship in 2016,” Ansari said while chairing the 131st Standing Committee meeting of J-K State Sports Council. The minister said the Council would provide all possible support to make the event a success.

Eight teams consisting of 180 participants from various countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and India are likely to participate in the event which will be held here at Bakhshi Stadium from June 18 to June 20 next year.

The Minister said the government wants such events to be held in the state for the promotion of sports activities at global level. It was also agreed that the council would be ready to provide various facilities like boarding, lodging and logistic for the smooth conduct of the event.

During the meeting, Ansari also directed the officials to put the recognition of various Sports Associations in abeyance till they do not conform to the set rules and submit their account details within a stipulated time.
Besides increasing the honorarium for the standing committee members, the minister also gave approval for the creation of various posts in the Council.