In the past few years Pakistan has seen a decline in the field of sports; we have a remarkable history and have been world champions in hockey, cricket and squash but now our teams are losing the spirit and excellence.

A private cellular company has recently recognised Naseem Hameed (the fastest woman in South Asia and the only woman to win a gold medal in the South Asian Games) by appointing her as one of its brand ambassadors.

A musical video was also launched to highlight her childhood life and how she became the fastest athlete. I think this is a very positive move and needs to be appreciated and replicated for other sporting activities too.

The video also shows the passionate support provided to Naseem Hameed by her family.

This exemplary family will surely change the mindset of millions of parents in our country regarding sports as a desirable mode of success.

Besides that, it will also encourage the youth, who possess raw talent but no stimulus to pursue their favourite sport on a professional level.

If they are encouraged by the government and private organisations, they can make a bright future for themselves. With such encouragement, the newcomers will strive harder and ultimately show good results in the international arena.

I request the government and other companies to please concentrate on recognising, developing and supporting the talented youth in the country. I am confident that there are thousands of aspiring Naseem Hameeds among us.

SYED IRFAN ALI
Lahore

(II)

I would like to appreciate the efforts of a private cellular company to pay tribute to Naseem Hameed, the “Fastest Woman of South Asia” and the first Pakistani female athlete to win the short sprint gold medal in the 26-year history of South Asian Games.

I was really impressed by the unveiling of a beautiful song capturing Naseem's struggle and accomplishments. This is positive step from the corporate sector which will encourage thousands of aspiring athletes in the country, whose talent and abilities remain unrecognised at the official level.

This will urge their parents to support these youngsters in participating in sporting activities. Most of the parents in our country hesitate in sending their children, especially daughters, to sports. They don't consider sports as a reliable and sustainable activity for achieving a stable career.

I request the government sports department to concentrate on other sports activities and games besides cricket and hockey.

All the other private organisations should promote and support the players of our country.

PEERZADA KHURRAM
Islamabad