Kulgam,June 19, 2025 – In a groundbreaking stride toward inclusivity, the Department of Youth Services and Sports (DYSSO) Kulgam, in collaboration with Humanity Welfare Organisation Helpline and the District Administration Kulgam, organized the first-ever cricket match for visually impaired players at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) Bugam on June 18, 2025. This landmark event brought together specially-abled cricketers from across the Kashmir Valley, marking a significant milestone in promoting accessibility and participation in sports.
The match, inaugurated by Padma Shri awardee and disability rights activist Javid Ahmad Tak, was described as an “awareness match” aimed at showcasing the talent and potential of visually impaired individuals while advocating for their inclusion in mainstream sports. Players used a specially designed audible ball with rattles to navigate the field, demonstrating remarkable skill and determination. The event drew enthusiastic support from local officials, including Additional Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Vikar Ahmad Geeri, who facilitated accommodations and local transport for the athletes.
“This is a celebration of resilience and talent,” said a DYSSO official, as reported by Rising Kashmir. The match not only highlighted the capabilities of visually impaired athletes but also underscored the need for accessible sports infrastructure. The event aligns with broader efforts to promote disability sports in India, following the recent send-off of the Indian Mixed Disability Cricket Team for an international series in England. Kulgam’s initiative has sparked calls for regular tournaments and training programs to nurture visually impaired athletes in the region.
Local residents and spectators expressed pride in the event, with many noting its role in challenging stereotypes. “This shows that sports in Kashmir is for everyone,” said a teacher at GHSS Bugam. The match sets a precedent for future inclusive sporting events, with DYSSO planning to expand such initiatives across Jammu and Kashmir.
