Srinagar: After successfully organizing swimming camp during the month of Ramadan, the department of tourism Kashmir organized a swimming competition among the participants on Wednesday.
Fifty students of different schools who successfully underwent training in swimming participated in the 200-meter freestyle event at Water Sports Center, Nigeen Club.
Director Tourism Kashmir Mahmood A Shah flagged off the race. Speaking on the occasion, Director Tourism Kashmir said they organized swimming camp during the month of Ramadhan to train youth in this important sports activity. These sportspersons can later become rescuers also, it was revealed.
A total of 250 students participated in the swimming camp of which best 50 students were shortlisted for the swimming competition. They were also trained in rescue skills during the camp.
Director Tourism Kashmir said only a few schools have swimming pools where students can learn swimming and the department is trying to fill this gap by organising such camps at its facilities.
“Swimming is not only healthy sports but it is a life-saving skill. A swimmer not only saves himself during any eventuality but also helps in rescuing others,” said Mahmood Shah.
Last year also the department organized swimming camp in which 350 students learned swimming.
Director Tourism Kashmir urged schools to send their students to the Nigeen Water Sports Center where all facilities are available to learn swimming from certified trainers.
He also gave away certificates and prizes among the participants during the concluding ceremony.
VC Jammu Development Authority Rajesh Shrawan, Additional Secretary Finance Mohammad Shahid Saleem and Deputy Director Registration Wasim Raja were also present on the occasion.
