KULGAM: The District Kulgam Thang-Ta Association organized the Thang-Ta Championship 2025 with great enthusiasm at Modern English Medium Secondary School (MEMSSA), Ashmuji. The event witnessed participation from over 25 schools across the district and aimed to promote physical fitness, discipline, and awareness against drug abuse. While speaking with the media, chief organiser Mohd Ashraf stated, “This championship is not just a sporting competition. It supports the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, encouraging students to embrace sports and stay away from harmful addictions.” He also confirmed that outstanding performers will be selected for the state-level championships.
Principal of MEMSSA, Farooq Ahmad Shah, expressed delight in hosting the event for the first time since the school’s establishment in 1989. “This event reflects the importance of sports in holistic education. It contributes to physical health, discipline, and success in competitive exams,” he said. Shah appreciated the teamwork of staff and students and announced that MEMSSA would continue to organize similar events to provide a platform for young talent. “Our goal is to offer quality education with strong extracurricular development at an affordable cost,” he added.
Speaking to Irshad Majeed he said, staff secretary at MEMSSA, said, “Our students are capable of achieving excellence. They just need the right opportunities. Events like this help them build confidence, focus, and determination.” He emphasized that Thang-Ta, being a traditional martial art, teaches not only physical strength but also mental discipline, which is essential in today’s world.
Students actively participated and expressed their excitement. Tajri Fayaz, a Class 9 student, said, “It’s a proud moment that our school hosted this event. It gives students like us a chance to compete and dream bigger.” Another student, Salma Ashraf, commented, “This championship keeps us healthy, focused, and away from drug addiction, which is becoming a major issue among the youth.”
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony. Executive Magistrate of Ashmuji, Mohd Yaseen Malik With Mohd Iqbal Dar awarded medals and certificates to the winners, applauding their dedication and talent. Among other notable guests present were Abdul Rashid, Principal of Higher Secondary School Ashmuji,Mohd Iqbal Dar School Secretary,Abdul Gani Dar, permanent school member; and community members including Sajad Ahmad Shan, Mehraj-ud-Din Khanday, Mohd Younus, and Manzoor Ahmad Malik. The event was praised for promoting not only martial arts but also spreading a powerful message of health, discipline, and social responsibility among the youth of Kulgam.