Sirajganj: Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood today emphasized the importance of sports in steering children away from drug addiction while addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Primary School Gold Cup Football Tournament for boys and girls-2026 at Shaheed Shamsuddin Stadium. Organized by the District Primary Education Office, the event saw Mahmood advocating for at least two hours of daily sports activities for children to foster a healthy and conducive environment for their growth.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahmood highlighted the lack of open spaces in urban areas due to the rise of high-rise buildings, which is affecting the physical and mental development of children. He expressed concern that the absence of adequate play areas has made children susceptible to negative influences, including drug addiction.
The minister urged schools to incorporate sports activities into their weekly schedules and called on parents to take a proactive role in promoting health and sports awareness among their children. He stressed the need to rehabilitate a generation affected by addiction and to provide them with opportunities for holistic development, which he believes will contribute to the nation's progress.
The event was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Md. Aminul Islam and attended by notable figures including Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Nazran Rauf, Sirajganj district BNP General Secretary Saidur Rahman Bachchu, District Primary Education Officer, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mamun Khan, along with teachers, students, and guardians from various schools.