Aijaz Dar
Lassipora Pulwama 19 May: At a time when society is witnessing an alarming rise in drug addiction and other social challenges among the younger generation, Panchal Group of Industries has come forward with a powerful and inspiring initiative aimed at transforming the lives of youth through sports and positive engagement.
The industrial group based in Lassipora is organising one of the biggest cricket movements in South Kashmir with the sole purpose of keeping youth away from drugs and destructive activities by connecting them with sports, discipline, and healthy competition. In the ongoing second edition of the mega cricket tournament, 128 cricket teams from different areas are participating completely free of cost, making the event a massive platform for local talent and youth engagement.
The initiative has received overwhelming appreciation from people across the Valley, especially from parents, sports lovers, and social activists who believe that such programmes are the need of the hour to safeguard the younger generation.
Managing Director Ishfaq Bhat, popularly known as “Shaan e South Kashmir,” said the organisation’s primary aim is to ensure that youth remain connected with constructive activities and stay away from drugs and other harmful influences.
“Our motive and mission is very clear. We want to create goals and opportunities for youth so that they remain focused on their future. Sports can completely change the mindset of young people. Cricket and other games help in overall development, build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and keep youth physically and mentally active,” he said.
He added that the response from the youth has been extraordinary since the launch of the initiative. During the first edition organised in 2025, nearly 128 teams had participated enthusiastically from different parts of South Kashmir. .
Encouraged by the tremendous public response and support, the company expanded the tournament further this year with the same enthusiasm and participation from youth across the region.
According to the organisers, the tournament is not merely a sports event but a social movement designed to inspire hope, unity, and positivity among youth. Hundreds of players are actively participating while thousands of spectators from different villages are attending the matches, creating an atmosphere of excitement and brotherhood.
Chairman of the group Haji Mohd Shabaan said the initiative is only the beginning of a much larger mission focused on youth welfare and empowerment across Kashmir Valley.
“This is just an initiative to engage youth because they need platforms where they can channel their energy in the right direction. We are continuously looking for new ways to engage the youth of Kashmir Valley through different constructive activities.
Through tournaments like cricket, thousands of people are participating and staying connected with positive environments,” he said.
He further stated that the company is committed to working for the upliftment of youth and society and will continue introducing programmes that can benefit young people socially, mentally, and physically.
Locals from different areas highly appreciated the efforts of Panchal Group of Industries and said the organisation is setting a powerful example by taking responsibility beyond business activities. Residents termed the initiative as a ray of hope at a time when many families are worried about increasing drug abuse among youth.
People also praised the leadership and vision of Ishfaq Bhat and Haji Mohd Shabaan for investing time, energy, and resources into creating opportunities for young people rather than limiting themselves only to industrial activities.
Sports enthusiasts and social observers believe that such tournaments can play a major role in identifying hidden talent from rural areas while simultaneously spreading awareness about the dangers of drug addiction. They said playgrounds can become the strongest defence against drugs if youth are consistently provided opportunities and encouragement.
Apart from cricket, the management revealed that several more programmes and ideas are under consideration for the welfare, skill development, and empowerment of youth in Kashmir. The organisation aims to continue working on initiatives that strengthen society and provide direction to the younger generation.
As the tournament continues to witness massive participation and enthusiasm, the initiative by Panchal Group of Industries is increasingly being viewed not just as a cricket competition, but as a meaningful social campaign dedicated to building a healthier, stronger, united, and drug free future for Kashmir’s youth.
