Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, on September 19 declared the 10th Pencak Silat Federation Cup 2026 open at the NDS Indoor Stadium, Leh. The three-day national championship, being held from September 19 to 21, has brought together more than 800 athletes from over 30 States and Union Territories, besides teams from the CISF, SSB and ITBP.

Pencak Silat is a traditional Indonesian martial art and combat sport that promotes discipline, physical fitness, confidence, self-defence and sportsmanship.

Addressing the opening ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor said the participation of athletes from across the country provides an important platform not only for competitive sport but also for learning, friendship, cultural exchange and national integration.

He said promoting sports and creating greater opportunities for young athletes remain key priorities of the Administration. He highlighted the New Ladakh Sports Policy 2026, announced earlier this year, which seeks to expand opportunities and support for sportspersons and strengthen the sports ecosystem in the Union Territory.

The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the provision of 4 per cent reservation in government jobs for outstanding sportspersons, aimed at recognising sporting achievements and creating greater career opportunities for athletes who bring laurels to Ladakh. He said the Administration is also undertaking various initiatives for the welfare and development of sportspersons, including strengthening training and coaching facilities, sports infrastructure, exposure opportunities, competitions and other support mechanisms.

Saxena highlighted the Khelo India and Fit India initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which have provided platforms for young people to showcase their sporting talent, identify emerging talent and pursue sporting careers at the national and international levels.

He also referred to the Prime Minister’s vision of developing Ladakh as a sporting powerhouse and noted that several national-level sporting events, including the Khelo India Winter Games, are being organised in the Union Territory. He said more national and international sporting events are in the pipeline.

Emphasising the wider economic benefits of hosting national-level sporting events, the Lieutenant Governor said such events also contribute to the growth of sports tourism in Ladakh. Referring to the recent Ladakh Marathon, he said major sporting events generate economic opportunities for local hotels, homestays, family-run guesthouses, taxi operators, restaurants, guides, traditional artisans and small businesses.

He added that athletes and family members accompanying participants in the Pencak Silat Federation Cup would also contribute to the local tourism economy.

The Lieutenant Governor said the Administration’s vision for sports extends beyond medals and competitions, with a focus on using sports to nurture discipline, leadership, teamwork, confidence and resilience among young people. He expressed hope that an increasing number of athletes from Ladakh would represent India at national and international championships and bring laurels to the country.

Urging the participating athletes to compete with dedication and true sporting spirit, Saxena said championships such as the Federation Cup provide athletes with an opportunity to test themselves against strong competitors, gain valuable experience and learn from fellow participants.

“Play, learn, move forward and pursue your dreams. I am confident that our athletes will continue to excel and bring greater recognition to Ladakh and India,” said L-G Saxena.