Panchkula: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand stepped onto the turf of the Tau Devi Lal Cricket Stadium to bat alongside participants of the Namo Cricket League, turning the event into a vibrant celebration of teamwork and the sheer joy of sport.
A Memorable Day on the Ground with the CM
After greeting the budding cricketers, Dhami grabbed a bat and bowled a few overs, sparking enthusiastic applause from the spectators. He underscored that playing the game offers insights no mere viewer can grasp, highlighting values such as collaboration, discipline, relentless effort, and unwavering focus on objectives.
A Unified Stand Against Drugs
The centerpiece of the gathering was a solemn pledge to stay drug‑free. Dhami urged every player and attendee to swear an oath against substance abuse, encouraging them to influence friends and family to follow suit.
The league’s rallying cry – “yes to cricket, no to drugs” – was presented as a promise to adopt a healthier, more positive lifestyle. Dhami appealed to young people to channel their energy into sports, creativity, and constructive pursuits that benefit both society and the nation.
Sports as a School of Discipline
According to Dhami, sport does far more than build physical stamina; it nurtures confidence, leadership, patience, and a collective spirit. He noted that athletes learn humility in victory and resilience in defeat.
Programs such as Khelo India and Fit India are widening access to athletics, allowing talent from villages and small towns to reach national and international stages.
Haryana’s Rich Sporting Heritage
Dhami praised Haryana’s contribution to Indian sport, citing Olympians, Paralympians, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games medalists. He emphasized that success is the result of years of hard work, strict discipline, and a clear, steadfast goal.
The old belief that academics must always outweigh sports is gradually fading. With better platforms and support, a career in sports is now a credible and respected option for today’s youth.
Keeping Young Minds Drug‑Free
Dhami warned that drug addiction harms not only the individual but also families and communities. In contrast, sport provides direction, discipline, and a positive identity.
He called on youngsters to stay away from 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 vow to reject drugs and embrace sport as a constructive way of life.
