Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, met the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi today, focusing on enhancing sports infrastructure and youth development in Jammu and Kashmir. This meeting highlighted the dedication of the J&K government to nurture athletic talent and promote an active sports culture in the region.
Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a thriving hub for sports and youth empowerment.
The memorandum detailed significant proposals aimed at infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation, aligning with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the J&K Sports Policy 2022.
Sharma urged the Union Government for support to fast-track the development of world-class sports facilities. This includes the establishment of the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg and the modernization of district stadiums, equipped with all-weather infrastructure to enhance accessibility for aspiring athletes.
He also emphasized creating sports amenities at the panchayat level to ensure equal opportunities for rural youth. The minister’s proposals further extended to the expansion of Khelo India grassroots programs and increasing scholarship and financial aid for athletes.
Incorporating sports science and physiotherapy into training systems represents another critical area of focus, ensuring that athletes receive holistic support. Sharma also proposed fostering public-private partnerships (PPP) for efficient management of sports infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
To bolster sports-linked tourism and enhance global exposure, Sharma suggested hosting international winter sports events in Gulmarg. This initiative aims to establish Jammu and Kashmir as a premier destination for winter and adventure sports, showcasing the region’s potential on a global platform.
He highlighted the urgent need for the early release of ₹103.82 crore under the Khelo India scheme to ensure the timely completion of essential sports infrastructure projects.
In response, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya assured Sharma that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would be developed soon. He also indicated that funds for providing sports equipment would be allocated to support ongoing and upcoming initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
The efforts of Sharma and Mandaviya signify a progressive step towards enhancing the sporting landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, promising a future where sports flourish and youth engage actively in various athletic disciplines.
