Kamrul Hasan : There is no alternative to sports in protecting the younger generation from drugs, crime, and social degradation and transforming them into healthy, skilled, and productive human resources, said Rafiquddin Bhuiyan (Habu), former Organizing Secretary of the Manikganj District BNP and a member of the party`s District Convening Committee.

He stated that ensuring the physical and mental development of young people is essential to building a developed, prosperous, and humane nation, and promoting sports is one of the most effective ways to achieve that goal.

He made these remarks while addressing the grand finale of a cricket tournament organized by the Union Cricket Council (UCC) as the chief guest on Friday (July 3) at the Airmara Mitra Boys Sporting Club ground in Manikganj Sadar Upazila.

The event was chaired by Md. Shahinul Islam Tarek, President of Airmara Mitra Boys Sporting Club, and conducted by its General Secretary,

Sohanur Rahman Sohan. Sagar Ahmed Sabu, former Relief and Disaster Management Secretary of Manikganj Sadar Upazila BNP, attended the event as the inaugurator.

In his speech, Rafiquddin Bhuiyan (Habu) said that the current government has undertaken various initiatives to encourage youth participation in sports, establish a drug-free society, and strengthen social harmony.

He added that under the leadership of BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, special emphasis is being placed on sports activities to promote the physical and mental development of young people. He also noted that the initiative to revive the "Notun Kuri" (New Buds) programme, originally introduced during the tenure of the late President Ziaur Rahman, is part of that broader vision.

He further said that young people engaged in sports are less likely to become involved in drugs, terrorism, juvenile gangs, theft, robbery, and other criminal activities. To build a healthy, productive, and drug-free society, he stressed the need to expand regular sports and cultural activities in every community.

Referring to development initiatives in the district, he said that Afroza Khanam Rita, MP, Member of Parliament for Manikganj-3 and Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, has been working tirelessly to improve district infrastructure, modernize the aviation and tourism sectors, enhance passenger services at airports, ensure smooth travel arrangements for Hajj pilgrims, and transform Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport into an international aviation hub. He also mentioned that the minister has instructed party leaders and activists to encourage youth participation in sports and strengthen anti-drug social campaigns.

The tournament received overall support from Mizanur Rahman Nayan, proprietor of City Electronics, Mitra. Among others present were the club`s Senior Vice-President Mohiuddin Khan Habu, Organizing Secretary Md. Swapan Mia, Treasurer Md. Ratan Mia, Sports Secretary Md. Latifur Rahman Tuhin, along with other local dignitaries.

According to the organizers, a total of 10 teams participated in the tournament organized by the Union Cricket Council (UCC), including seven teams from Manikganj Sadar Upazila and three teams from Singair Upazila.
The grand final featured Cricket Family of Krishnapur Union and Atigram Strikers of Atigram Union.

In an exciting final match, Cricket Family defeated Atigram Strikers to win the championship title.

Following the match, the chief guest presented trophies and prizes to the champions and runners-up. The event concluded in a festive atmosphere, with enthusiastic participation and overwhelming support from spectators.