The 18th North Zone Sport Rock Climbing Championship commenced here today with over 100 participants from the northern states and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).

Over 100 participants from all northern states -- Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir -- and ITBP are taking part in the championship, organised by Directorate of Tourism in collaboration with Department of Youth Services and Sports and Jammu and Kashmir Mountaineering and Tracking Club, at Tourist Reception Centre adjacent to Nowgam railway station.

Youth Services and Sports Minister R S Chib, who inaugurated the championship, said the climbing wall is a great addition to the tourism related activities in the state.

"It will be fruitful and definitely boost the adventure tourism in the State," he said.

"The state government is very keen and committed to provide better sports facilities and infrastructure throughout the state and will explore the hidden talent of young generation so that they will represent the state at national and international level," he said.

Jammu and Kashmir has fielded two teams as J&K Red and J&K Blue.

The competition will be held for four days in different events like Speed, Bouldering and Lead in separate categories for Junior and Senior in both male and female sections.

The championship has been approved by Indian Mountaineering Foundation New Delhi, the apex body of sports climbing in the country, an official spokesman said.