TANGAIL, July 11, (V7N) — State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku today underscored the government's commitment to expanding sports and intensifying efforts to build a drug-free Bangladesh.

"The government has launched various initiatives to promote sports across the country including district-level football competitions under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, aimed at encouraging youth participation," he said.

He made the remarks while inaugurating the "Deputy Commissioner Gold Cup Football Tournament" at Shahid Maruf Stadium in Tangail, as the chief guest.

Tuku called on players and spectators to uphold harmony, sportsmanship and brotherhood, stressing that no violence or unpleasant incidents should overshadow sporting events.

"Sports inspire young people, bring communities together and guide the youth towards a positive future," he said, adding that further steps would be taken to strengthen sports infrastructure and activities in Tangail.

Highlighting the government's anti-drug campaign, Tuku said there would be "no compromise" in tackling narcotics, describing a drug-free Bangladesh as a national priority.

 

The state minister urged people from all walks of life to remain vigilant to protect the country's younger generation.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Tangail Deputy Commissioner Sharifa Haque, District BNP President Hasanuzzaman Shaheen, District Football Association President Advocate Ali Imam Tapan, and other senior officials, political leaders and sports organisers.

A total of 12 upazila teams are competing in this year's tournament, with each team allowed to field up to five foreign guest players.

In the opening match, Tangail Sadar Upazila defeated Basail Upazila 3-0. Five other matches were also played across the district on Saturday.

The second round of league fixtures is scheduled for 13 July, followed by the Super Six stage from 15 to 19 July.

The semi-finals will be held on 28 and 29 July, while the final is set to take place at Tangail Stadium on August 1.

Notably, in Tangail, the 'Deputy Commissioner Gold Cup Football Tournament' once meant the participation of famous Bangladeshi clubs, including Mohammedan and Abahani.

In 1980, the then Deputy Commissioner Md. Rezaul Islam first organized the 'Deputy Commissioner Gold Cup Football Tournament' in Tangail,