Baramulla, 29 June 2026: The third edition of Varmul Gindo 3.0, Baramulla’s largest and most prestigious sports festival was inaugurated today with great enthusiasm at Shoukat Ali Stadium, Baramulla, marking the beginning of a month long celebration of youth, sportsmanship and community harmony. Organised by the Dagger Division of the Indian Army in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, District Youth Services & Sports Department and Baramulla Sports Association, the mega sporting event aims to provide a vibrant platform for young talent from across the district.
The grand opening ceremony was graced by the General Officer Commanding, Dagger Division, as the Chief Guest. The occasion was attended by the MLA Baramulla, MLA Gulmarg, Commander TMG Brigade, Ms Rupali Patel Singh, Arjuna Awardee, senior officials from the J&K Sports Council, civil administration, military officers, sportspersons, students and members of the local community.
Held under the inspiring theme “Tarjuman-e-Aman” (Messenger of Peace), Varmul Gindo 3.0 reflects the aspirations of Wadi-e-Tarjuman, promoting peace, unity, inclusivity and youth empowerment through the transformative power of sports. This year’s edition is expected to witness participation of nearly 3,000 young athletes, including boys and girls representing all major tehsils of Baramulla district.
The festival will feature competitions in more than 20 sporting disciplines, including Football, Tennis Ball Cricket, Volleyball, Rugby, Hockey, Handball, Kabaddi, Basketball, Kho-Kho, Athletics, Karate, Wushu, Chess, Table Tennis, Snooker and several other indoor and outdoor events. Competitions will be conducted across over 15 venues throughout the district, ensuring widespread participation and community engagement.
The festival was ceremonially flagged off with an exciting Rugby match, symbolising strength, teamwork and determination while setting the tone for the month-long sporting extravaganza.
Addressing the gathering, the General Officer Commanding, Dagger Division, highlighted the significance of sports as a catalyst for positive social change. He stated that “Varmul Gindo 3.0 is much more than a sporting event. It is a celebration of the aspirations, talent and resilience of the youth of Baramulla. Through sports, we aim to nurture discipline, teamwork, leadership and confidence while strengthening the bonds of peace, unity and national integration across the Valley.”
The MLA Baramulla and MLA Gulmarg appreciated the initiative and commended the collaborative efforts of the Indian Army, civil administration and sporting bodies in providing meaningful opportunities for the youth. They emphasised that such initiatives inspire young people to pursue excellence, adopt healthy lifestyles and contribute positively towards society.
Ms Rupali Patel Singh, Arjuna Awardee, while interacting with the participants, encouraged the young athletes to pursue their sporting dreams with dedication and perseverance. She emphasised that discipline, hard work and determination remain the cornerstones of success and urged the participants to make the most of the platform provided by Varmul Gindo 3.0.
The competitions will be conducted under the supervision of recognised sports federations and technical officials, ensuring professional standards and fair play throughout the tournament. Besides identifying emerging sporting talent, the festival aims to strengthen social cohesion and foster lasting bonds among the youth of Baramulla.
As the competitions commence, Varmul Gindo 3.0 promises to be another landmarks chapter in Baramulla’s sporting journey, celebrating excellence, inclusivity and the enduring message of peace, progress and unity across the Kashmir Valley.
