Gangtok, Aug 9: In an effort to promote a drug-free society and encourage a healthy lifestyle among the youth, the Social Welfare Department Mangan organized a one-day badminton tournament under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) at Mangan Nagar Panchayat today.
The programme was attended by Miss Tshering Doma Bhutia, MNP Councillor, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Anant Jain (IAS), DC Mangan, as the Special Guest. Other dignitaries present included Mrs. Choden Kazi, Principal of Mangan Girls Senior Secondary School, and Mr. Karma Zamyang Dadul, Additional Chief Engineer, Power Department.
In his speech, Mr. Jain emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for the youth to channel their energy into sports and avoid indulging in drugs. He administered an oath to the participants before the tournament began.
A total of 38 participants took part in the tournament, with Aditya Thapa and Benu Subba emerging as winners in the Men’s Doubles category and Song Kipu Lepcha and Benu Subba winning the Mixed Doubles category. The winners were awarded Rs 4,000, while the runners-up received Rs 2,000 each as a token of appreciation.
The event was a step towards promoting a healthy lifestyle and discouraging drug abuse among the youth in the region.