Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, met with Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi today to discuss crucial improvements in sports infrastructure and youth engagement in Jammu and Kashmir. This meeting marks a significant step towards enhancing athletic excellence in the region.
During their discussions, Sharma presented a comprehensive memorandum that reiterates the J&K Government’s unwavering commitment to transforming the Union Territory into a vibrant hub for sports and youth empowerment. He emphasized the importance of this initiative for both local youth and the overall development of the region.
The memorandum laid out key proposals that focused on infrastructure development, athlete welfare, and grassroots participation. These proposals align with the National Sports Policy 2025 and the recently launched J&K Sports Policy 2022, aiming to uplift sports standards in Jammu and Kashmir.
Sharma specifically sought assistance from the Union Government to expedite the establishment of world-class facilities, including the National Winter Sports Centre of Excellence at Gulmarg. He urged the need for modernization of district stadiums with all-weather infrastructure and the creation of sports amenities at the panchayat level, which would ensure equitable access for rural youth.
In addition to infrastructural goals, the Minister called for the expansion of Khelo India grassroots programs, an enhancement of scholarship and financial aid for athletes, and the integration of sports science and physiotherapy into the training systems for athletes. He also emphasized the potential for public-private partnerships (PPP) to efficiently manage and maintain sports infrastructure.
To bolster sports-linked tourism and global exposure, Sharma proposed that Jammu and Kashmir host international winter sports events in Gulmarg. This initiative could position the region as a premier global destination for winter and adventure sports, significantly benefiting the local economy.
Furthermore, Sharma strongly advocated for the early release of ₹103.82 crore under Khelo India to complete essential sports infrastructure projects that are currently underway.
Responding to Sharma’s requests, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya assured him that a dedicated policy for promoting rural sports would soon be framed. He also promised that funds for sports equipment would be allocated to support the ongoing and planned initiatives aimed at enhancing the sporting landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.
