In a significant move for Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, met with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi today. The discussion focused on enhancing sports infrastructure, strengthening youth engagement, and promoting athletic excellence in the region.
During the meeting, Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum that underscored the J&K Government’s commitment to evolve the Union Territory into a vibrant center for sports and youth empowerment. The proposal aligns closely with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022.
Among the top priorities outlined in the memorandum were crucial areas like infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and widespread grassroots participation. Sharma emphasized the need for world-class facilities, specifically requesting assistance for the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg.
The meeting addressed the modernization of district stadiums, ensuring all-weather infrastructure is established to benefit athletes. Additionally, the creation of sports amenities at the panchayat level aims to provide equitable access to sports for rural youth.
Satish Sharma also advocated for the expansion of Khelo India grassroots programs and called for improved scholarships and financial aid for athletes. He highlighted the importance of integrating sports science and physiotherapy into training systems to elevate the performance of local athletes.
Moreover, Sharma proposed initiating public-private partnerships (PPP) to facilitate efficient management of sports infrastructure. He emphasized that these measures would help foster a sporting culture and inspire the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
To bolster sports-linked tourism and give athletes a competitive edge on an international level, Sharma suggested hosting international winter sports events in Gulmarg. He expressed optimism that this would position Jammu & Kashmir as a leading global destination for winter and adventure sports.
In a further push for financial assistance, Sharma requested the early release of ₹103.82 crore under the Khelo India scheme to complete essential sports infrastructure projects. This funding is pivotal for implementing the proposed measures effectively.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya responded positively, assuring that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would soon be formulated. He also pledged financial support for sports equipment to enable ongoing and future initiatives aimed at uplifting the sports landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.
This meeting reflects a critical step towards realizing the aspirations of J&K’s youth to participate in sports and secure opportunities that can lead to national and international recognition.
