LAHORE: Director General Sports and Youth Affairs Punjab Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry inaugurated the National Junior Badminton Championship at the Nishtar Park Sports Complex Gymnasium Hall on Friday, marking a significant event in the province’s sporting calendar. The championship aims to promote junior badminton talent and foster a competitive sports environment.

In a related development, Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Punjab Muhammad Ali emphasized the government’s dedication to enhancing the sports culture in Punjab. During a meeting at the Punjab Stadium, he highlighted ongoing efforts to develop sports infrastructure and expand the Sports Endowment Fund to support top-performing athletes.

The meeting, attended by key officials, including Additional Secretary Shabbir Hussain Cheema and Director Sports Rana Nadeem Anjum, involved a comprehensive briefing by Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry on the activities of the Punjab Sports Department. The briefing also announced an upcoming General Body meeting of the Sports Board Punjab and a function to honor medal-winning athletes from the National Games.

Muhammad Ali praised the performance of athletes in the recent National Games held in Karachi, reiterating the commitment to nurturing young talent. He noted, “Our goal is the development of sports culture and healthy activities among the younger generation.”

The Secretary further noted the ongoing construction of new sports grounds and facilities throughout Punjab, aimed at harnessing the region’s sports potential and providing valuable opportunities for the youth.