In a crucial meeting in New Delhi, Satish Sharma, the Minister for Youth Services and Sports of Jammu and Kashmir, urged Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, to enhance support for sports infrastructure and youth development in the Union Territory. The meeting focused on comprehensive strategies to elevate Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for athletic excellence.
Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum outlining the J&K Government’s commitment to transforming the region into a vibrant center for sports. The memorandum includes important proposals targeting infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation, aligning with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022.
During the talks, Sharma expressed the need for Union Government assistance to fast-track the establishment of world-class facilities, especially the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg. He highlighted the urgency of modernizing district stadiums with all-weather infrastructure and creating sports amenities at the panchayat level to provide equitable access for rural youth.
The minister also emphasized the importance of expanding Khelo India grassroots programs, enhancing scholarships and financial aid for athletes, and integrating sports science and physiotherapy into training programs. He advocated for promoting public-private partnerships (PPP) to manage and develop sports infrastructure effectively.
Moreover, to boost sports-linked tourism and global exposure, Sharma proposed the hosting of international winter sports events in Gulmarg, aiming to position Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for winter and adventure sports.
Additionally, Sharma requested the early release of ₹103.82 crore under Khelo India to complete critical sports infrastructure projects. This funding is pivotal for realizing the ambitious vision for sports development in the region.
In response, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya assured Sharma that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would be formulated soon. He also confirmed that funds for necessary sports equipment would be allocated to support both ongoing and future initiatives.
This meeting marks a significant step towards elevating the sports standards in Jammu and Kashmir, aligning with broader national goals to foster sporting talent among the youth. By enhancing support and infrastructure, the region aims to not only improve local sports but also to attract national and international attention, thereby promoting its vast potential in sports.
