Girls play rugby to bust stress in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 21 (ANI): Girls in Kashmir are taking up rugby to bust stress caused due to militancy in the valley.

The turmoil in the state has given rise to cases of chronic depression and other stress-related disorders among youths especially girls.

However, these girls have started playing rugby as to divert their attention from militancy. Many rugby tournaments have now started in the region, thanks to the newfound interest of youth.

"For the last 20 years, Kashmir is experiencing turmoil and minds and hearts of people are very disturbed. So these children (girls) saw that rugby is providing them a medium to vent their stress. So they play rugby," said Mohammad Iqbal, an organiser of rugby tournaments.

Even the girls feel that their stress levels have reduced after taking up rugby.

"Tension has increased a lot especially in girls. Rugby has helped us to reduce our stress level," said Sabha Akhtar, a rugby player. (ANI)