Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nihal Hashmi has confirmed the government’s strong commitment to the revival of departmental sports across the country following a direct directive from the Prime Minister. Mr. Hashmi announced an early meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss the current situation and formulate a strategy for implementing the directive, stating that the promotion of sports within the province is an urgent necessity.
This expression was made by Syed Muhammad Nihal Hashmi during a meeting today at Governor House, in discussion with officials of the Karachi Hockey Association, various sports organizers, and a representative delegation from various sectors.
The Governor further emphasized that federal and provincial departments can play a vital role in sports by resuming their historical patronage. With such support, he noted, the financial condition of athletes will significantly improve, and healthy activities will be promoted throughout society. He specifically highlighted the need for collective efforts to revive the national sport of hockey.
During the meeting, the visiting delegation drew the Governor’s attention to the historical tradition where sports events named after him, including hockey and basketball, used to be held, and also highlighted the former provision of awards for sports organizers and journalists. They formally requested the revival of these initiatives.
Mr. Hashmi accepted the delegation’s invitation to visit the KHA Sports Complex and sought their suggestions regarding the planning of various upcoming sports events.
On this occasion, commemorative gifts were presented to the Governor Sindh by representatives of the Karachi Hockey Association and Sindh Olympic Association.
The delegation was led by Gul Faraz Ahmed Khan, Chairman KHA and Vice President of Sindh Olympic Association. Other prominent members included Asghar Azeem, Secretary General of Pakistan Sports Writers Federation, Olympian Iftikhar Syed, Colonel (Retired) Muhammad Azam, International Hockey Player Arshad Hussain, Zahid Rahim, Chairman Khidmat-e-Awam Welfare Trust, Tahir Sheikh, Zahid Shahab, President Pakistan Institute of Hockey, Secretary Professor Rao Javed Iqbal, International Hockey Commentator Riazuddin Siddiqui, Dr. A. Majeed, Senior Vice President KHA, Imtiaz Hassan, Senior Joint Secretary, Azmatullah Khan, Anwar Farooqi, Junaid Khan, President Pakistan Media Alliance, and other esteemed personalities.