Early Times Report NEW DELHI, Feb 19: S. S. Sodhi, Governing Body Member of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) and President of the Jammu & Kashmir Rifle Association (JKRA), called on the Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, in New Delhi today. During the meeting, Sh. Sodhi presented his self-authored book, The Unsung Hero, and held meaningful discussions on promoting shooting sports across the Union Territory of Ladakh. The Unsung Hero, which has received appreciation and coverage in leading newspapers of Jammu, is an inspiring tribute that highlights the courage, sacrifice, and silent contributions of individuals who have served the nation with unwavering dedication. The book reflects Sh. Sodhi's deep reverence for national service and his commitment to documenting stories that inspire present and future generations. During the interaction, Sh. Sodhi proposed the organization of a National-Level Rifle Association Tournament in Ladakh, aimed at encouraging children and youth from remote and far-flung areas, as well as urban centers, to participate and showcase their talent. The proposed tournament seeks to provide budding shooters with national exposure, a competitive platform, and structured pathways for excellence, thereby strengthening the sporting ecosystem in the region. He further outlined plans to establish shooting clubs across various districts to make the sport accessible at the grassroots level. Emphasis was laid on creating structured training facilities, integrating sports development within schools and community clubs, spreading awareness about shooting as a disciplined and rewarding sport, and motivating young aspirants to pursue it professionally. Sh. Sodhi highlighted that such initiatives would not only nurture sporting excellence but also instill focus, resilience, leadership, and confidence among the youth. Sh. Sodhi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor for his dedicated leadership and honest approach toward the holistic development of every region of Leh-Ladakh. He appreciated the visionary efforts being undertaken to create an enabling atmosphere for youth through sports, culture, education, and community initiatives in schools and clubs across the Union Territory. He also extended his sincere thanks to the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for introducing progressive programs and policies specifically designed for remote and strategically significant regions like Leh-Ladakh, which are opening new avenues of opportunity for local youth. Furthermore, Sodhi acknowledged and appreciated the continuous support and contribution of the Leh-Ladakh Administration, the Indian Army, and other security forces in strengthening local infrastructure and contributing meaningfully to the region's overall development. The Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor appreciated Sh. Sodhi's literary contribution as well as his sustained commitment toward the promotion of shooting sports in the region. The interaction ended on an optimistic note, reaffirming a collective commitment to nurture youth potential and foster a vibrant culture of sports and discipline in Ladakh. |