War against drugs through sports: Football club inspires new generation in Nawanshahr

Players associated with the 'Daily Morning Football Club' in Nawanshahr district are making efforts to guide the younger generation towards sports and away from drugs.

One of the clubs senior players and coach, Raghvinder Pal Singh, a retired SDO from the BSNL, has been playing a pivotal role post-retirement. He not only supports the club’s activities in Nawanshahr, but also dedicates his mornings to coaching children in his native village Babbar Mazara, before they leave for school. His goal is to mentor these young players like his own children and help shape them into successful footballers and responsible citizens, bringing pride to the club and the nation.

Similarly, Praveen Kumar, ASI with Punjab Police, is contributing both at the club in Nawanshahr and by training budding players in his village Sloh, after fulfilling his official duties.

Tarsem Lal, Deputy Group Education & Information Officer and Chairman of the Mass Media Wing, Civil Surgeon Office, Jalandhar, said: “Our aim is to create a heaven-like environment on the earth by keeping the youth away from drugs and connecting them to sports. This is a sincere effort for the betterment of our future generations."

The movement is being carried out with the support of the Department of Youth Services, District Sports Office, BSNL, Mass Media Wing (Civil Surgeon Office - SBS Nagar & Jalandhar), Punjab Police, and experts from various departments and fields.

Raghvinder Pal expressed, "There’s immense peace and satisfaction in coaching these children. It feels like we are contributing to the realization of Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh’s dream and helping in the creation of a vibrant, progressive Punjab.”

These thoughts were shared during a friendly football match organized today.

The event saw the active participation and support from members of the Sair Committee Nawanshahr, players of the Daily Morning Football Club, Nawanshahr, New Daily Morning Football Club, Nawanshahr, young footballers from Babbar Mazara, and local sports enthusiasts.

The ongoing efforts of these organisations and individuals highlight how sports can serve as a powerful tool in the fight against drug abuse, instilling discipline, purpose, and a sense of community among the youth.