BANDIPORA: The ASMITA Kickboxing League 2025-26, a nationwide initiative under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, was inaugurated on Saturday by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri at Salvatore International School Shilvat, Sumbal.

The league is being organized under the flagship Khelo India programme and is aimed at empowering girls through sports. As many as 150 girl athletes from various districts across the Kashmir province are participating in the event.

The league is part of the ASMITA (Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women through Action) campaign, which is being implemented across India to promote the active participation of women folk in competitive sports, enhance self-defense skills, and foster discipline among young girls.

During the inaugural ceremony, National Kickboxing Coach Faisal Ali Dar (Padma Shree Awardee), Sub Divisional Magistrate Sumbal, Murtaza Ahmad, and other dignitaries were present.

On the occasion, DC felicitated some of the participating athletes and lauded their dedication, courage, and sporting spirit.

Speaking at the event, DC emphasized the importance of such leagues not just in advancing careers in sports but also in building confidence, self-discipline, and self-defense skills among young girls.

He appreciated the efforts of the WAKO Kickboxing India and Kickboxing Association of Kashmir for organizing the event in Bandipora and providing a platform for young girls to excel in martial arts.