In a bid to elevate Jammu and Kashmir’s sports landscape, Satish Sharma, Minister for Youth Services and Sports, met with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi today. The two leaders engaged in an in-depth discussion aimed at bolstering sports infrastructure and youth engagement within the Union Territory.
Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum outlining several proposals to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a hub for sports and youth development. His memorandum emphasized infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and increased grassroots participation in support of the National Sports Policy 2025 and the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Policy 2022.
During the discussions, Sharma sought crucial assistance from the Union Government to speed up the establishment of world-class sports facilities. Among his key requests was the development of the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg, along with the modernization of district stadiums equipped with all-weather infrastructure. He stressed on the importance of creating sports amenities at the panchayat level to ensure that rural youth also have equitable access to sporting opportunities.
To further enhance sports engagement, Sharma proposed the expansion of Khelo India grassroots programs, which aim to identify and nurture young talent. He also called for increased scholarship and financial support for budding athletes, as well as the integration of sports science and physiotherapy into training regimens. Additionally, he emphasized the significance of fostering public-private partnerships (PPP) for the effective management of sports facilities.
In a move to promote sports-linked tourism, Sharma suggested hosting international winter sports events in Gulmarg, seeking to position Jammu and Kashmir as a premier global destination for adventure sports.
Furthermore, Sharma urged the Union Minister to facilitate the early release of ₹103.82 crore under the Khelo India scheme to ensure the completion of critical sports infrastructure projects that will directly impact the local youth.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya responded positively, assuring that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would be formulated soon. He noted that funds for sports equipment are imminent, designed to bolster ongoing and upcoming initiatives aimed at improving youth sports engagement.
This meeting underscores the Indian government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and fostering talent in Jammu and Kashmir, signaling a bright future for aspiring athletes from the region.
