Sports important for health, national image: Speaker Ghimire

Patan (Lalitpur), Nov 16: Speaker Devraj Ghimire said that sport is not only for the sake of individual entertainment and health but also for national reputation.     

In the inaugural of the First Jhapa-1 Kathmandu Cup Futsal organized by Jhapa constituency-1 Parliament Secretariat, Kathmandu and Nepali Congress (NC) constituency-1 Kathmandu Contact Committee today, Speaker Ghimire asserted that the sports event organized in effort of NC parliamentarian Bishwa Prakash Sharma marked an important initiative.     

Lauding the event as a creative and impactful programme, Ghimire voiced his concern over the indifference of the State towards sports. He, however, noted that Nepal was making a stride in the sports sector in recent years, particularly in cricket.     

There is a promising future for Nepal in sports provided there is collective and continued support and promotion for sports from all fraternities, Ghimire encouragingly said, "We can reach even a greater height in sports if we continue our pursuit."     

Acknowledging the improving state of sports in the country compared to the past, he emphasized further support and investment in the sports sectors.     

Similarly, NC former General-Secretary Krishna Prasad Sitaula appreciated the NC's effort to unite the people in Jhapa through creative pursuits like this Futsal.     

During the inaugural, Speaker Ghimire handed over a ball to commence the match participated by representatives from various political parties, artists, and leaders from various sectors among others.     

There are seven groups competing in the competitive matches while the event will feature friendly match as well, informed Prajwal Koirala, Chairperson of NC constituency -1 Kathmandu Contact Committee.     

The winning team will take home a cash prize of Rs 21,000 along with a trophy and a medal and the group securing second position will secure Rs 11,000 cash prize along with a trophy and a medal. (RSS)