Chess gaining official support as 13-year-old Rehan Khan Nasir honored for representing Balochistan in U.S. tournament
Quetta, August 22 (ANN): Parliamentary Secretary for Sports and Culture Meena Majid Baloch has announced that the Balochistan government is taking concrete steps to revive and develop sports grounds across the province, with a special focus on nurturing young talent.
Speaking to media during a ceremony held in honor of 13-year-old Rehan Khan Nasir, who represented Balochistan and Pakistan at an international inter-school chess competition in the United States, Meena Majid praised the young chess prodigy’s achievement and presented him with a cheque as a token of recognition.
“Balochistan is full of untapped talent in various sports, and it is our top priority to bring these skills to the forefront,” she said. “We are not only working in Quetta, but also across remote areas of the province to ensure that sports fields are developed and talent is given the opportunity to grow.”
She added that chess is a game close to her heart, stating that she plays it daily with her children. “We will soon announce an official chess coaching program in Balochistan, and inter-school tournaments will be organized across the province to popularize the game,” she said.
The Parliamentary Secretary further stated that Rehan’s achievement would serve as a source of inspiration for thousands of young players, and she has plans to arrange a meeting between Rehan and Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, where further steps will be discussed to promote chess and other indoor games on a provincial level.
“Our responsibility is not only to support such children upon their return from international competitions but also to ensure they have access to resources and guidance for future success,” she emphasized.
Also present at the event, Secretary Sports and Culture Dara Baloch reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reviving sports across Balochistan. “Under clear instructions from the provincial leadership, we recently organized the successful All Balochistan CM Gold Cup Tournament, and we are ramping up other sports initiatives as well,” he said. He congratulated Rehan Khan Nasir and expressed confidence in the emerging generation of athletes in the province.
Meena Majid Baloch concluded by stating that developing playgrounds and supporting athletes is not limited to one region. “From Makran to Quetta to remote districts, we are committed to building a sports-positive environment and ensuring every talented child in Balochistan is encouraged and celebrated.”
