MARDAN: The District Administration Mardan, in collaboration with the Regional Sports Office, has inaugurated the Jashn-e-Azadi Sports Festival 2026, bringing together athletes, officials and sports enthusiasts as part of Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations.
Provincial Minister for Revenue and Estates Tariq Mahmood Aryani attended the opening ceremony as chief guest and formally inaugurated the festival by taking part in a badminton match. Regional Sports Officer Mardan Sajid Khan Afridi, District Youth Officer Saddam Khan, police and Rescue 1122 officials, media representatives, athletes and a large number of spectators were also present.
Athletes Showcase Skills at Opening Ceremony
The inaugural ceremony featured demonstrations by athletes in gymnastics, karate and other sporting disciplines. Their performances drew appreciation from participants and spectators and added to the festive atmosphere.
Speaking at the event, Tariq Mahmood Aryani said the provincial government was taking practical measures to encourage young people to participate in healthy and constructive activities and to promote sports across the province.
He described sports as an important foundation of a healthy society and said creating greater opportunities for young people to participate in sporting activities remains a priority for the government.
Special Focus on Athletes With Disabilities
The provincial minister also highlighted efforts to promote sports for persons with disabilities, saying they should have opportunities to showcase their abilities and compete at national and international levels.
The festival includes competitions in hockey, badminton, volleyball, table tennis, basketball, Kyokushin karate, swimming and cycling, along with karate events for male athletes with disabilities.
The competitions will continue through August 14, with athletes from across District Mardan taking part.
Independence Day Celebrations and Tree Plantation
The festival is aimed at encouraging positive activities among young people, developing sporting talent and marking Pakistan’s Independence Day through sports and community participation.
At the conclusion of the opening ceremony, Aryani also participated in the Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign by planting a sapling at the Regional Sports Complex Mardan.
He called on the public to take part in tree plantation activities to contribute to a greener and healthier environment.
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